There were reports of high demand for produce at border points especially Busia where volumes of trade were registered especially for beans, maize and millet. Huge volumes of assorted beans were recorded throughout the week to the tune of between 1300MT-2500MT daily. In the maize sector, approximately 300-500MT were traded daily throughout the week. Several traders were reported on the market demanding for especially beans.

There is an indication of increased productivity for most staples in this market compared to last year’s records. At this time last year, the border market received maize back from Kenya into Uganda from the Kitali harvest at a price lower than Uganda’s. At the same time, this border market received millet, then, from Ethiopia. When compared, the current prices are lower than the previous year.

Good quality maize was purchased at Ksh.24/kg (Ugx.770) while Fair quality at Ksh.23.7/kg (Ugx.760). The least acceptable quality usually for animal feeds cost Ksh.23.5/kg (Ugx.754) Variation in price during the week was due to fluctuation in the forex rate. Trading went on throughout the week to Sunday where 700MT were registered during the compilation of this report.

Several varieties were delivered to Busia border market from a number of production locations. Rosecoco beans were delivered from Kyegegwa, Kyenjojo, Kagadi and Kibaale at Ksh.47/kg (Ugx.1508). Green beans were delivered from Mbarara at a cost of Ksh.55/kg (Ugx.1765). Yellow beans cost Ksh.78/kg (Ugx.2503) while Sugar beans were offered at Ksh.85/kg (Uggx.2728). Mixed beans and Red Wailimu beans cost Ksh.35/kg (Ugx.1123) and Ksh.52/kg (Ugx.1670) respectively. Nambaale beans cost Ksh.78/kg (Ugx.2503). The intake of assorted beans into this market is increasing by the day.

In Kampala, the maize price stabilized at Ugx.800/kg and several traders are reported stocking for other agencies around Kisenyi market. Most of the grain was purchased by the millers. The quality continues to be affected by rain currently received. Most of the harvest has been sold off at a cheaper price compared to last year’s price at this time. Stockists are believed to have considerable stock that may collide with the newly harvested grain.

In the northern region, maize cost Ugx.600-700/kg in Gulu while in Lira it was much cheaper at Ugx.500-600/kg. Kenyan traders were reported buying maize and beans in Lira. Newly harvested maize was reported in Mbale at Ugx.650/kg and in Tororo at Ugx.600/kg.

Maize was bought at Mutukula border post heading to Tanzania at Ugx.750-800/kg. Several transit traders consolidated maize and beans in the western region heading to this border market. In Rakai, maize was bought at Ugx.650-700/kg. Maize was registered at a low price in such production areas as Masindi at Ugx.600-700/kg, Kiboga-Kyankwanzi at Ugx.550/kg, Mubende at Ugx.650-670/kg and Soroti at Ugx.600/kg.

A number of transit traders purchased high quality maize in Kamwenge and the surrounding districts heading to Bunagana border destined to DRC Congo at Ugx.770-800/kg. Others bought mixed beans and maize at Ugx.1850/kg and Ugx.1250/kg respectively destined for Rwanda via the same border point. The traders, however, noted that the taxes levied on this produce was high between border points. They also noted that Rwanda’s grain harvest would be ready in January 2021 therefore can only supply to this market during December.

The Irish potato harvest opened in Mbale-Wanale and Kapchorwa. A 100kg bag of sorted large tubers was offered at Ugx.80,000-85000 in Wanale. Medium sized tubers cost cheaper at Ugx.80.000 for a 100kg bag weighing 100kgs. In Kapchorwa, a 100kg bag of Irish potatoes was offered at Ugx. 80,000. In the western region, Kabale was going through a minor harvesting season and offered Irish potatoes at Ugx.150,000-160,000 per sack weighing 120kgs. The major season is around the corner and should be on in December/January. Farmgain Africa

The maize market price gradually increased from Ugx.650/kg where it had stabilized low in Kampala’s major markets for a few weeks. It increased to Ugx.850/kg in Kafumbe Mukasa market but later subsided to Ugx.800-810/kg.

Millers reduced their maize grain intake after realizing that their internal school food purpose requirement was never taking off when a few finalists were called back to school.

The price of maize flour declined to Ugx.65,000 per sack weighing 50kgs at wholesale. Other grains have equally not fetched the usual margins apart from Millet which was until recently harvested in northern Uganda. The millet price was slowly increasing from Ugx.1000/kg in major markets of Northern Uganda.

The general maize price trend is one that has been slow due to lack of demand. The crop yield estimate was good and apparently the soon to open season is expected good because of abundant rainfall in most parts of the country.
The maize price is expected to drop to an unusual price when the second season of the year starts in the near future. Speculators are predicting very low market price similar to 2018.

At the regional cross border market of Busia, reduced supply was reported from within and yet a number of transit traders turned up for grain. An estimated 5,000 metric tonnes of grain was registered via Busia customs formally. Maize was offered at Ksh.22/kg (Ugx.732) to 21.3/kg (Ugx.709). Increased purchasing is expected in the short run when the second season kicks off.

In the beans sector, low prices were reflected in most markets at wholesale. Slow trading was equally reported in most markets where we follow market information. In Owino and Kafumbe-Mukasa markets, Sugar and Yellow beans were preferred at Ugx.3300/kg and Ugx2700/kg respectively. Other bean varieties were offered cheaper. Short Nambale (Nabe) cost Ugx.2100-2000/kg at wholesale while long Nambale at Ugx.1900-1800/kg. Rosecoco (Kahura) beans were offered at Ugx.2100/kg while mixed beans at Ugx.1100-1050/kg. White beans went for Ugx.2000-2100/kg. Green beans from Mbarara were offered at Ugx.2100-2200/kg.

More trading for beans was reported at an estimated volume of 1500Mt daily. Good supply of beans was received from all production locations countrywide. Yellow beans were preferred at Ksh.89-90/kg (Ugx.2,963-2,997).

Other varieties demanded included Sugar beans at Ksh.84/kg (2797), Nambale beans at Ksh.57-58/kg (Ugx.1,898-1931), Wailimu beans at Ksh.50/kg (Ugx.1,665) and Mixed beans at Ksh.47/kg (Ugx.1,565) Supply is expected to increase in the near future as harvesting continues.

Notable low price markets included Rakai where Rosecoco beans were offered at Ugx.1500/kg, Masindi and Lira where beans cost Ugx.1800/kg, Kiboga/Kyankwanzi at Ugx.1700/kg and Mbarara.

In the Coffee sector, FAQ coffee was bought at Ugx.3800/kg. The quality is expected to improve when the rains subsides. The demand from the world market is not at its best. Better yields are expected due to normal to above normal rainfall distribution countrywide.

Lower offer price for Arabic coffee is expected this year as a result of increased production amidst low price experienced throughout last year which is considered an off-year.

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Low maize grain prices were reported in the rural production locations in the country side. In the western region, Kyegegwa, Kabarole, Kamwenge and Kyenjonjo maize grain was demanded low. A kilo of grain fetched Ugx.500-600/kg and the market price is expected low in the near future. The major internal grain market known to the traders remain closed as schools and other centers of education have no hope of opening in the short run.

The unexpected and untimely rainfall received in different locations of the countryside continues to register maize and other staples at different levels of maturity as farmers continue to plant.

Some districts have very high hopes of a bumper harvest. A number of farmers opened up gardens of different crops during the Covid 19 pandemic and in fact continue to care for their plantations.

The maize harvested this season for Kiboga/Kyankwanzi, area has stalled and offered low at Ugx.550-560/ kg. Mubende, Mbale and Masindi registered similarly low maize prices.

The maize price in Kampala declined from the previous week’s price of Ugx.670/kg in Kisenyi/Owino markets to Ugx.650/kg and is expected lower.

The Kenya border grain requirement cannot absorb the entire maize grain currenly supplied. Several traders bought both maize grain and assorted beans from Uganda. More volumes of assorted bean varieties were recorded at the regional produce market in Busia surpassing the maize volumes recorded at 800-900Mt daily. Good quality maize was offered at a stable price of Ksh.21.5/kg compared to the previous week.

More supply of newly harvested beans have arrived to the market. Supply was earlier received from the central region and part of the western region. Now freshly harvested beans were registered from the northern, western and eastern regions. Apparently, the market prices were very stable at the border market of Busia regional cross border market when compared to the previous week.   

Yellow beans were offered at Ksh.95/kg, Nambale at Ksh.64/kg, Red wailimu beans at Ksh.55/kg and sugar beans at Ksh.110/kg.

In Kampala, good supply of assorted beans varieties forced the current beans price lower to Ugx.2750-3000/kg at wholesale while Sugar beans (Masavu) from Kabale at Ugx.3300-3500/kg wholesale price. The much desired short Nambale (Nabe) was offered at Ugx.2200-2250/kg in both Owino and Kisenyi Kafumbe Mukasa Road markets. Mixed beans were offered cheapest at Ugx.1500/kg.       

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The month of April marked the opening of the first seasonal harvest for beans. Freshly harvested beans were received at Busia at a slightly higher price compared the old stocked beans. An estimated 400MT were received in this market daily throughout the week. Trading was slow. Few traders turned up to purchase beans, however, the quality was highly moist. As usual, Yellow beans were preferred at Ksh.135-140/kg while Short Nambale at Ksh.120-130/kg. Other varieties demanded by this particular market included Red Wailimu beans and Mixed beans at Ksh.95-100/kg and Kash.92/kg respectively. Supply was registered from Kiboga, Mityana, Ntungamo, Kibaale, Mbale and Kikagati districts.

Old stocked beans were bought cheaper in this particular market. Old stocked beans found a better market back in Kampala because demand for the same was higher there.

By the second week, the beans price declined as more supply was delivered to Busia. Yellow beans declined to Ksh.125-130/kg while Short Nambale price to Ksh.110-115/kg. Red Wailimu beans and mixed beans reduced to Ksh.92-97/kg and Ksh.90/kg respectively.

By the third week of May, beans prices dropped further. Yellow beans were preferred cheaper at Ksh.107/kg. Short Nambale beans at Ksh.96/kg, Red Wailimu beans at Ksh.82/kg, Saitoti and Rosecoco beans at Ksh.100/kg and Mixed beans at Ksh.80/kg.

At the close of the month, approximately 200-400MT of assorted beans were bought on a daily at Busia border market destined for Kenya indicating a major decline in price compared to the seasonal opening price. Plenty of beans were delivered to Busia and Yellow beans were also preferred at Ksh.88/kg while Nambale short and Rosecoco beans at Ksh.85/kg (Ugx.2975) and Ksh.70/kg (Ugx.2450) respectively. Other beans varieties demanded by traders included mixed beans at Ksh.62/kg (Ugx.2170), red Wailimu at Ksh.65/kg (Ugx.2275) and Long Nambale at Ksh.82/kg (Ugx.2870).

The newly harvested beans delivered to Kampala at the opening of the month were reported from Mubende, Mityana, Mbarara, Kisiita, Kibaale and Hoima. Yellow beans and Masavu (Sugar Beans) were preferred on this particular market at Ugx.5000/kg. Short Nambale (Nabe 1) cost Ugx.4800/kg while the Long variety at Ugx.4200/kg. The old stock beans in this market cost Ugx.2700-3000/kg. Old stock yellow beans cost Ugx.3600/kg while Long Nambale at Ugx.3200/kg.

The beans yield was affected by irregular weather pattern where some areas received too much rain and others were affected by longer dry spells.

Full harvest was realized at the close of the month. In Kampala, Yellow beans were offered at Ugx.3400-3500/kg at wholesale. Most supply was received from the Central and Western regions (Mbarara and Hoima districts). Short Nambale declined to Ugx.2800-2900/kg while Rosecoco (Kahuura) was sold at Ugx.2800/kg. Other beans varieties such as Kanyeebwa and Mixed were offered at Ugx.3000-3300/kg and Ugx.1800-2000/kg respectively at wholesale.

Long Nambale beans were offered cheaper than Short Nambale at Ugx.2600-2650/kg wholesale. The beans harvest is expected to continue until July. High prices were noted in the Northern region markets such as Gulu and Lira districts because the harvest has not taken off. Supply was received from Hoima and Kiboga districts at Ugx.3000-3300/kg wholesale.

Maize grain was offered at Ugx.1030-1060/kg in Kisenyi Millers market-Kampala at the start of May. Less grain trading was registered in Kampala due to low demand for maize flour. A kilo was offered at wholesale Ugx.2000 while maize bran at Ugx.250-300.

In the following week, the grain price declined drastically as traders off loaded all old stock grain to the market in fear that the just harvested Tanzanian maize via Namanga to Busia would run them into losses. When the Ugandan traders interfaced with the Tanzanian supply in the same market, they dropped their price. Maize grain price declined from Ugx.1000-950/kg after registering slightly more supply in Kampala.

Fresh maize on cob started reaching the market mid-May further exciting the grain market leading more speculators drop off some grain held in anticipation of high market price. Fresh maize on cob was delivered from Bunyoli and Budama Tororo.

Less demand for grain was registered in Kampala Kisenyi Millers market. The grain price was very stable at Ugx.950-960/kg wholesale by the third week.

Plenty of other fresh staple foods were received in this market rendering maize costly when compared to them. Plenty of rice was received from Tanzania driving the market price lower to Ugx.2600-3000/kg during the month of May.

The grain price in Kampala reduced further at the close of May to Ugx.900-930/kg from Ugx.950/kg

Likewise, the price of maize flour declined at wholesale to Ugx.1850-1900/kg wholesale Kisenyi –Kampala price.

At Busia an estimated 400MT was traded on a daily basis at the beginning of May. Good quality maize grain was bought at Ksh.31/kg while fair quality at Ksh.30.5/kg. The least acceptable quality was bought at Ksh.29/kg. Other commodities demanded included Sorghum at an estimated 300MT daily at Ksh.27-28/kg, Millet grain at 200MT daily costing Ksh.29/kg. Cassava, Groundnuts, Simsim and Green grams were also demanded by this market.

The grain price reduced in the second week to Ksh.27-29/kg good quality grain while the least acceptable quality at Ksh.25/kg. It fluctuated to Ksh.31.5/kg while the least acceptable quality at Ksh.27/kg by the third week. The increment was attributed to an increase in Kampala grain market price then. (Forex rate: Ksh.34.5)

Approximately 300MT of maize were purchased by Kenyan traders at the Busia Border Produce market in the final week. At the close of the month, business was distorted over the weekend when the traders converged back to their trading location and were dispersed by police for not observing safety guidelines against the Covid 19 pandemic. The traders returned to trading along the streets of the municipality. Good quality maize was offered at Ksh.29-30/kg (Ugx.1015-1050) indicating a slight fluctuation in price compared to the previous week’s price. The least acceptable quality was bought at Ksh.25/kg (Ugx.875).

Maize grain was registered low in Masindi and Gulu at Ugx.900/kg while in Tororo and Mbale at Ugx.1000/kg. In the production locations, the maize grain price was stable at between Ugx.800-900//kg. This was the case in Kiboga, Kyankwanzi, Masindi and Mubende. There are indications that the first season crop in the western and central regions could be affected by dry spells of harsh sunny weather. Some maize at cob formation and flowering stage could be highly affected if the rain does not continue in the month of June. The beans harvest was equally affected by too much water.

Plenty of fresh items such as Irish potatoes, sweet potatoes, Matooke and Fresh Cassava were in plenty in different markets countrywide. Cassava was registered cheapest in Masindi where a bag weighing 300kg cost Ugx.20,000-25,000. More harvest of Irish potatoes was delivered to the market from Mbale, Sebei and Mbarara driving the market price lower. A sack weighing 100kg from Mbale cost Ugx.110,000 while that from Kabale at Ugx.130,000-140,000. Sweet potatoes and fresh cassava offered at retail cost Ugx.1000-2000 per heap weighing 2-6 kilos. Irish potatoes were received from various production locations such as Kisoro, Kabale, Mubende, Mbale, Kapchorwa and Kween districts. This has driven the market price low at Ugx.80,000/100kgs. However, the current rains in some of the above mentioned locations has led to fluctuation of prices in some of the above markets due to impassable roads mid-May.

Trading at the border post of Mutukula was limited by the process of checking truck drivers for Covid 19 disease. Maize, beans, cassava and rice are some of the commodities expected from Tanzania before our harvest in June/July. The price of rice in some markets has already declined drastically due to this import. In Kampala the price of super rice from TZ dropped to Ugx.2600-3000/kg wholesale depending on quality. Maize at this border post was offered at Ugx.850-870/kg wholesale price.

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This  week, there was more demand for maize grain at the regional border market in Busia after closure of the Tanzanian-Kenyan borders that had registered newly harvested grain from Tanzania via Sirari and Namanga. The regional market price at Busia fluctuated between Ksh.29-30/kg for good quality grain. The least acceptable quality was offered between Ksh.25-27/kg. It was noted that more grain was received from different stockists, distributed around the country, delivered to Busia because the market was vibrant and more paying.

More than 300MT of maize were traded daily throughout the week indicating an increase in demand for maize from Uganda.

There was an increased supply of beans to Busia compared to the previous week with volumes increasing to 200MT per day. As usual, Yellow beans were preferred though at a cheaper price at Ksh.107/kg compared to Ksh.125/kg the previous week. Short Nambale beans were alsosupplied at a low price at Ksh.96/kg compared to Ksh.115/kg the previous week. Likewise, Red Wailimu beans were delivered at Ksh.82/kg, Saitoti and Rosecoco beans at Ksh.100/kg and Mixed beans at Ksh.80/kg.

Transit traders avoided Mutukula border post where a lot of produce is reported coming from Tanzania because of the Covid 19 scare. Maize, rice, groundnut and dry cassava are expected in the country usually before our harvest in June/July. The price of rice in some markets has already declined drastically due to this import. In Kampala the price of super rice from TZ dropped to Ugx.2600-3000/kg wholesale depending on quality. Maize at this border post was offered at Ugx.850-870/kg wholesale price.

Apparently, there was also big demand for Cassava at Busia border market trading at Ksh.18/kg.

Other commodities that were demanded in this market included Green grams at Ksh.72/kg, Simsim at Ksh.105/kg and Red beauty groundnuts at Ksh.120/kg.

Less demand for grain was registered in Kampala Kisenyi Millers market. The grain price was very stable at Ugx.950-960/kg wholesale. Plenty of other staples were received in this market thus rendering commodity prices very stable. Plenty of rice was received from Tanzania driving the market price lower to Ugx.2600-3000/kg.

Other commodities such as groundnuts, dry cassava and beans were also delivered from Tanzania to this market. Maize was on average offered at Ugx.900/kg in other rural markets.

Irish potatoes were received from various production locations such as Kisoro, Kabale, Mityana, Mubende, Kyotera-Masaka, Mbale, Kapchorwa and Kween districts. This has driven the market price low at Ugx.80,000/100kgs. However, the current rains in some of the above mentioned locations has led to fluctuation of prices in some of the above markets due to impassable roads.

In Tororo, the sorghum harvest and has led to a price decline as low as Ugx.500/kg. supply will not last long because there is not much this season expected. Likewise, in Kiboga and kyankwanzi and some other central districts. The current beans harvest was affected by some dry spells therefore not much is expected this season given the effect on the current harvest. Usually, the first seasonal harvest is not long. 

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Maize traders and stockiest have rushed to market to minimize losses as the market price begins to subside. Maize supply was delivered to Busia from Tanzania via Taveta, Sibanya and Namanga. Apparently the Tanzanian supply which is newly harvested and is of good quality and cheaper than the old stock grain from Uganda.

When the traders interfaced with the Tanzanian supply in the same market, they dropped their price. A lot of fresh maize on cob started reaching the market further exiting the market leading more speculators drop off whatever they had held in anticipation of high market price. This fresh maize was delivered from Bunyoli and Budama Tororo.

Throughout the week maize was offered cheaper at Ksh.27-29/kg good quality grain while the least acceptable quality at Ksh.25/kg. At the close of the week, the grain price increased to Ksh.31.5/kg while the least acceptable quality at Ksh.27/kg. The increment was attributed to an increase in Kampala grain market price during the weekend. (Forex rate: Ksh.34.5)

An estimated 180-200Mt of grain was traded daily at Busia border post market.

In Kampala, the grain market declined from Ugx.1000-950/kg after registering slightly more grain. The rate at which Posho is demanded has further affected the demand for maize. The price of Posho was stuck at Ugx.2000/kg at wholesale leading to further slow trading in Kampala Grain market. Elsewhere, maize on cob has started reaching the market especially in Kyankwanzi, Kiboga, Masaka, Iganga and Bugiri. Plenty is expected from Masindi in the first seasonal harvest. In Mutukula, trading was low, though, a lot of produce was expected into the country mainly because of the cumbersome process that the truck drivers are going through to check for Covid-19 disease. Maize, beans, cassava and rice are some of the commodities expected from Tanzania. Generally, there was a slight grain market decline due to less demand from Busia Regional market.

As more harvested beans were delivered to Busia, the market price declined on a daily routine. Yellow beans were preferred and more expensive at Ksh.125-130/kg. The yellow beans declined towards the weekend. Mixed beans were offered at Ksh.95-90/kg while red Wailimu beans at Ksh.97-92/kg. Nambale beans cost between Ksh.130-115/kg but further dropped to Ksh.110/kg during the close of the week end market.

Approximately 100Mt of assorted beans were traded at Busia, however, the supply increased to 150Mt during the close of the week.   

Given the above normal rains received countrywide, some locations have registered floods, Soroti district being one of them where a cholera outbreak has broken out leading to loss of three lives.

Kampala market also received plenty of newly harvested beans from Hoima, Mubende, Mityana and Mbarara districts. Short Nambale, Kahuura, Kanyeebwa and Yellow beans were offered at Ugx.3500/kg wholesale price. Long Nambaale and Mixed beans were cheaper at Ugx.3300/kg and 2700/kg respectively. Masavu(Sugar beans) were, however, sold expensively at Ugx.4500/kg. The quality is not yet good since the moisture content is still high but the climax of the beans harvest is expected in a fortnight. The expected supply was, however, hit by irregular weather pattern where some areas received too much rain and others were affected by longer dry spells.

Northern regional market offered beans expensively and outsourced beans from the South rendering beans price higher than other parts of the country. Beans were offered at Ugx.4500-6000/kg at retail price in Gulu depending on variety and quality. In general, the opening season has rendered the beans market prices lower compared to the previous week. Other fresh commodity supplies delivered to market were in plenty which led to low prices.

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As the nation waits for the next presidential address on the Covid 19 pandemic, fewer consumers were registered in the markets to purchase food items. The trading communities in Kampala’s major markets expressed their regret at the low turn up. The concern of social distancing was disqualified because the traders were not registering the right sales.

Millers in Kisenyi noted that maize was purchased at a high price and posho/flour held in stock for long leading to losses therefore purchasing less maize grain. The grain price has since declined from Ugx.1100-1000/kg to Ugx.900/kg in Kisenyi. The traders also noted that people don’t have money to buy food like they used to. Lira recorded the same grain price.

Posho price declined slightly from Ugx.103,000 a 50kg bag to Ugx.100,000. Traders have resorted to selling smaller units of 5,10 and 20 kilogram bags.

Likewise in the local townships across the nation, less purchasing of food items was mentioned mainly due to high commodity prices especially for processed items and long distances to the markets. Apparently, there is plenty of fresh food items in the rural areas because of the current rain season that continues until May.

Plenty of Matooke was mentioned in the greater Mbarara districts, however, there were supply limitations due to transport and less demand from the major city buyers. Traders resorted to loading small bunches that are affordable to the town dwellers at a range of Ugx.5000-15,000 retail price.

Plenty of matooke was also mentioned around the Elgon area together with Irish potatoes at Ugx.100,000 per 100 kilo bag. Supply was delivered to Mbale and beyond.

A considerable stock of maize grain is still held by stockiests speculating for high price until May, however, the border market at Busia received newly harvested maize from Tanzania via Sirari and Namanga- Kenya. It’s not clear how big this harvest is though, it will most likely affect the Ugandan grain price low. Some maize supply was also delivered via Mutukula to Uganda. The quality is good.

An estimated 200Mt was registered daily via the border post. Good quality maize grain was bought at averagely Ksh.32/kg (Ugx.1120) down from Ksh.33-35/kg previously. Less trading was registered at Busia compared to a fortnight before.

Less beans supply was delivered to Busia border market leading to increasing price for some varieties. Approximately 50Mt of assorted beans were traded daily throughout the week. Beans remain highly priced due to scarcity. Yellow beans were demanded most at Ksh.120/kg (Ugx.4200). Nambale beans cost Ksh.115/kg (Ugx.4025) while red wailimu at Ksh.95/kg (Ugx.3325). Mixed beans cost Ksh.87/kg (Ugx.3345)

Limited supply of newly harvested beans reached Kampala market and were offered at Ugx.4200/kg wholesale price. This supply was traced back from western region in particular Kyegegwa and Kyenjojo. The climax of the opening season is expected in May/June.  Stocks in Kampala market were from the previous harvest which is currently poor quality dry beans ferried from stockiest from Hoima, Mubende, Kiboga and the central region generally. There is not much held with these traders and the market had received beans from Rwanda and Tanzania.

Good quality yellow beans were offered at Ugx.4300-4500/kg while old stock yellow at Ugx.3500-3700/kg. The best quality Short Nambale beans were registered from Hoima at Ugx.4500/kg while old stock Nambale at Ugx.3500-3700/kg. Long Nambale was offered at Ugx.3200-3500/kg wholesale price. Sugar beans (Masavu) and Mixed beans were sold at Ugx.4900/kg and Ugx.2800-3500/kg depending on quality respectively in Kampala markets.

In the northern region, beans were scarce and Gulu market registered higher prices because it received supply from Kampala. Yellow beans were offered at Ugx.6000/kg while Short Nambale at Ugx.4000-4500/kg. Lira prices were cheaper at Ugx.3500-3800/kg. Beans were cheaper in Mbale at Ugx.2800-3000/kg wholesale price.   

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As the president’s directive to maintain social distancing and countrywide curfew enrolls to its final days, most commodities in and around Kampala’s commodity market registered low demand. Consumers stayed away from the usually crowded markets. Supply throughout the week was slow and demand for maize was mainly for production of posho within the city suburbs. Traders in Kisenyi dry grain market also noted that free food distribution to the vulnerable community around town could have affected the demand for posho in most city markets. Maize grain was bought at Ugx.1100-1120/kg throughout the week.

The posho price declined slightly from Ugx.110,000 per 50Kgs sack to Ugx.103,000. Apparently the last harvest season last year that opened October was good and plenty of grain is expected on the market until May, 2020. The climax is usually the month of May when maize price is at its highest. This supply is followed by maize grain import from Tanzania which undercuts the inflated market price before the new first season harvest in June/July. The price of maize bran declined due to low demand to Ugx.250/kg in Kisenyi market.

Mbale, Masindi and Mubende registered very similar grain price at Ugx.1100/kg. The Joseph Initiative and Aponye Uganda Ltd bought maize grain in Masindi where surplus was registered in the 2^nd season.

Some maize grain was bought from Kamwenge at Ugx.1040-1050/kg, however, cheaper grain was offered from Tanzania via Mutukula at Ugx.1000/kg taxes included. The grain was delivered with groundnuts although the quality was no good mixed with white groundnuts. Rice and beans were also delivered via Mutukula border post. Good quality gnuts were offered at Ugx.4,400-4,300/kg while poor quality at Ugx.3700/kg. Rice and beans were offered at Ugx.3,300/kg and 3,950/kg Mutukula price respectively.

Busia border produce market registered approximately 400Mt daily formally via URA main gate and only an estimated 50Mt informally. Good quality maize grain was bought at Ksh.34/kg (Ugx1186) while fair quality at Ksh.33/kg (Ugx.1151) and the least acceptable quality at Ksh.32/kg (Ugx.1116)

Beans were very expensive in Masindi at Ugx4500/kg old stock at retail level. Kampala markets also had beans very expensive especially the supply from Tanzania retailing at Ugx.5,000-6,000/kg depending on quality. Mbale registered lower beans prices due to the fact that old stocked beans were offered to the market at Ugx.2,800-3,200/kg. Most upcountry markets offered old stock beans expensively.

Less than 50Mt of assorted bean varieties were sold daily via Busia produce border market formally to Kenya. The informal business that has been going on for years was partially closed due to the stepped up security at the border to control the highly infectious Covid 19 disease.

Other commodities that were demanded by the Kenyan agribusiness community included millet, sorghum, cassava, groundnuts, simsim and grams. Less than 50Mt of sorghum and millet were bought daily formally via URA gate.

Yellow beans were preferred at Ksh.125/kg (Ugx.4,363) apparently sugar beans were very expensive at Ksh.148/kg (Ugx.5,165) wholesale price. Nambale beans cost Ksh.115/kg (Ugx.4,013).Mixed beans and Red Wailimu cost Ksh.90/kg (Ugx.3,141) and Ksh.98/kg (Ugx.3,420) respectively. 

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There has been regulated supply of maize to the market in general. Maize grain major markets registered different trends. Kampala received plenty of maize at the opening of the week and the supply rendered the market price stable at Ugx.930/kg. Apparently, the maize flour price is still high at Ugx.93, 000-95,000 per 50kg sack wholesale price Kampala. Other markets had their flour price at the same price or slightly higher. Traders, however, noted that there was plenty of maize from the local production areas and that the market price was expected lower if the regional demand markets at Busia and Mutukula reduced their requirements.

Uniquely, Kampala market received plenty of Simsim rendering the market price low at Ugx.3600-3800/kg at wholesale in Owino market.

At the regional border post market of Busia, demand for maize declined and according to the transit traders, the Kenyan grain price for unsorted quality was lower than the Ugandan selling price at this market. The maize price declined from Ksh.29/kg to Ksh.27/kg for good quality maize. Some harvesting was reported around Ukamba region and is expected to have caused the decline of maize price West of Kenya. Only an estimated 400MT of maize grain was registered crossing on a daily basis down from 1500MT a fortnight ago.

In the local production markets such as Kyankwanzi and Kiboga, maize was offered at Ugx.800-850/kg. It was much cheaper in Masindi where farmers offered their crop at Ugx.700/kg in a rush presumed to be a process in search for school fees. Mubende, similarly, registered maize at Ugx.900/kg mainly because there were several transit traders demanding for maize destined for Mutukula Uganda and Tanzania border post.

In Kamwenge, maize grain trading was getting started and it was noted that the quality was not good because the quality was mixed up and had high moisture content. The price, however, was recorded increasing from Ugx.800/kg to Ugx.850-870/kg depending on quality especially for traders who operate Mutukula route. The presence of rainfall in most of these production locations has affected the quality of maize. On an average, 30 trucks were loaded out of Kamwenge daily destined for Mutukula Tanzania.

Grain trading at Mutukula was recorded faster than usual. A number of traders turned up in search for maize. They offered to buy good quality maize at a higher price compared to that of unsorted grain. Unsorted maize was bought at Ugx. 950-1000/kg.

In Arua, the supply of maize was low. A kilo was bought at Ugx.1100-1200/kg. Supply was registered from Masindi Kiryandongo.

The market in general received less beans due to the off-season nature currently. In Busia, Yellow beans were preferred at Ksh.102/kg (Ugx.3692) while Nambale at Ksh.75/kg (Ugx.2715). The beans price was very stable. The variable factor was forex rate for the day. Sugar beans (Masavu) were received at Busia market at Ksh.96/kg (Ugx.3475) from Rwanda. Rosecoco beans were offered at Ksh.80/kg (Ugx.2896). Due to reduced supply from the production locations around the country, the volume of beans crossing to the Kenyan side has dropped to an estimated 400MT on a daily basis.

In other major markets, beans were offered expensively at Ugx.2500-Ugx.3500/kg at wholesale price depending on variety and quality.

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The produce market at Busia border post registered very high demand for beans at the opening of September, however, supply was low. Only 200Mt of assorted beans varieties were traded daily throughout the first week of September. Yellow and sugar beans were preferred by the transit traders from Kenya.

Yellow beans were bought at Ksh.98/kg (Ugx.3430) while sugar beans from Rwanda at Ksh.120/kg (Ugx.4200). These beans were recorded very scarce and supply low. Short Nambale beans cost Ksh.82/kg (Ugx.2870). Red Wailimu and mixed beans were offered at Ksh.72/kg (Ugx.2520) and Ksh.69/kg (Ugx.2415).

By the second week, less beans sale was registered in the same market due to reduced supply. The market here received only about 100Mt of assorted beans daily. Volumes traded decline gradually. Yellow beans preferred were offered at Ksh.97/kg (Ugx.3395), Nambale beans reduced from Ksh.82/kg to Ksh.79/kg (Ugx.2765), Red Wailimu beans dropped Ksh.2/kg to Ksh.70/kg (Ugx.2450) and Mixed beans declined from Ksh.69/kg to Ksh.65/kg (Ugx.2275).

Other commodities demanded by Kenyan transit traders included Sorghum at Ksh.25/kg (Ugx.875), Millet at Ksh.32/kg (Ugx.1120), Dry cassava at Ksh.20/kg (Ugx.700), Soya beans at Ksh.49/kg (Ugx.1715), groundnuts at Ksh.145/kg (Ugx.5075),green grams at Ksh.86/kg (Ugx.3010) and simsim at Ksh.135/kg (Ugx.4725). 

Mid-month, the volume of beans delivered to Busia border produce market further declined drastically. Yellow beans price stabilized (Ugx.3385), Nambale beans were stable at Ksh.81-82/kg (Ugx.2826). Red wailimu beans and mixed beans recorded an increase to Ksh.72/kg (Ugx.2512) and Ksh.64/kg (Ugx.2233) respectively.

Other commodities demand by Kenyan transit traders at Busia mid-month at an increased price included, Simsim at Ksh.140/kg (Ugx.4886) and Cassava at Ksh.22/kg (Ugx.767).   

The final week at Busia border market, recorded more supply of newly harvested beans. Over 600MT of assorted beans were bought off daily. Yellow beans were bought at Ksh.95/kg (Ugx.3325), Nambale beans at Ksh.86/kg (Ugx.3010), Red Wailimu at Ksh.72/kg (Ugx.2520), Rosecoco beans at Ksh.87/kg (Ugx.3045) and Mixed beans at Ksh.65/kg (Ugx.2275). 

During the opening of the month, Kampala received beans from the republic of Rwanda, Tanzania and Paidha. The quality from Rwanda was good and offered higher at Ugx.3600/kg while that from Tanzania and Paidha at Ugx.3200/kg and Ugx.3300/kg respectively.  Other varieties supplied to this market included Short Nambale (Nabe1) at Ugx.3500-3600/kg, Sugar beans cost Ugx.3600/kg wholesale and Long Nambale (Nabe4) beans were offered at Ugx.3300-3400/kg.

By the second week of September, new harvest from Hoima reached Kampala market. This supply rendered short Nambale cheaper at Ugx.3300/kg, long Nambale at Ugx.2800-3000/kg especially in Owino market.

Bean prices were stable mid-month until the end of September. Other varieties such as Rosecoco, Kanyebwa and mixed beans were delivered. The volume of beans supplied also increased towards the close of September. Supply was registered from Kagadi, Hoima, Kiboga, Masaka e.t.c. Some yellow beans were also registered from Tanzania.

In the production locations such as Kyegegwa, Hoima, Mubende, Gulu, Masaka, Kyankwanzi and Tororo, Yellow and Nambale beans were offered at Ugx.2500-2700/kg wholesale price.

Beans were much cheaper in Mbale and Kapchorwa at Ugx.2000-2200/kg especially varieties that are high yielding in those locations. In Kabale and Rukiga districts single colour and mixed beans were offered at a high price for (Ugx.3500/kg and Ugx.3000/kg respectively). Several markets registered reducing beans prices at the conclusion of the month of September.

Harvesting maize continued into the month of September. The quality should have been better but the presence of rainfall affected it. The maize price in Kampala fluctuated at the onset of the month between Ugx.880-900/kg especially in Kisenyi, Nalukolongo-Nateete markets. Low grain prices were registered in Mubende, Masindi, Lira, Kiboga and Kyankwanzi at averagely Ugx.680-700/kg wholesale price confirming harvesting.

By the second week the grain price in Kampala increased to Ugx.920/kg. Towards the end of the month, it increased to Ugx.950-970/kg in the same market.

In the final week of September it further increased to Ugx.1050/kg. The quality had greatly improved and most grain buying houses started stocking maize in Kampala. Maize was reported cheap in Lira, Soroti and Kyankwanzi districts at Ugx.700/kg.

In the eastern region especially Teso sub region, the southern areas had completed harvesting while the upper area, harvesting was reported going on. Therefore preparation for, planting and harvesting were taking place at the same time. In Masindi AfgriKai bought maize at its stores at Ugx.800/kg. Maize trading was reported at Mutukula border post where Tanzanian traders bought maize at Ugx.960/kg.

Grain trading at Busia regional border produce market registered high demand at the opening of September. Many transit traders turned up demanding for maize. Good quality maize was bought at Ksh.29/kg (Ugx.1015). An estimated 1000Mt were sold on a daily basis throughout the month of September. Buying price fluctuated between Ksh.28/kg (Ugx.977) and Ksh.29/kg (Ugx.1050) mid-month until the end.

Apparently other staple foods such as Matooke, cassava, millet, rice and sweet potatoes were available and affordable. Medium size bunches of Matooke cost averagely Ugx.15,000-17,000 each. Fresh cassava and sweet potatoes were sold in heaps at a cost of Ugx.1,000-2,000. Millet in Kampala was almost at its lowest.

The market reported receiving super rice from within and outside the country in particular Tanzania. From within, Super rice that is usually grown in swampy areas or referred to as Paddy rice was received from production locations such as Mbale, Tororo, Busoga region, Gulu, Lira, Hoima and Kihihi. The cheapest rice was offered at Ugx.2,800/kg in Lira and Gulu. In Kampala, super rice was offered at Ugx.3500/kg wholesale, however, the supply from Tanzania cost Ugx.3400/kg. It was offered at Ugx.3000/kg wholesale in Mubende, Soroti, Tororo and Mbale. Rice delivered from Mbale, Tororo, Gulu and Lira was offered at Ugx.3500/kg wholesale price in Kampala. Farmgain Africa.