A dispute involving coffee seedling suppliers in Masaka has been resolved, with the government announcing that outstanding payments to the operators will be cleared following intervention by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
Minister of Local Government Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi said the matter had been brought to the attention of the President, who had directed that the suppliers be paid through the State House Comptroller, Jane Barekye.
“The issue raised by the coffee seedling suppliers in Masaka has been resolved. His Excellency the President, through the State House Comptroller, will ensure that the suppliers are paid fully tomorrow morning,” Barugahara said in a statement.
The controversy emerged after coffee seedling suppliers in Masaka raised concerns over delayed payments linked to a government-supported coffee distribution programme. The suppliers reportedly expressed frustration over financial pressure caused by the delays, prompting public debate and calls for authorities to intervene.
Barugahara said the situation appeared to have intensified because of political disagreements and the difficulties faced by seedling operators who had been waiting for payment after fulfilling their obligations.
“I also wish to inform the nation that the matter appears to have been escalated due to political differences and the stress faced by the seedling operators,” he said.
The minister further clarified the contractual arrangements surrounding the supply of coffee seedlings, saying the contract was awarded to Masaka businessman and community leader Chairman Bulegeya.
“The contract to supply the coffee seedlings was awarded to Chairman Bulegeya of Masaka. Hon. Justine Namere only witnessed the arrangement and was not a contracting party to the suppliers, contrary to the allegations made by the lady yesterday,” Barugahara explained.
The clarification comes amid growing public interest in Uganda’s coffee sector, where government programmes have placed emphasis on increasing coffee production, supporting farmers, and expanding access to improved planting materials.
Coffee remains one of Uganda’s leading export commodities and a major source of income for millions of households. Government-backed initiatives to distribute improved coffee seedlings have been central to efforts to increase yields and strengthen farmer participation in the sector.
However, delays in payments to suppliers and service providers involved in agricultural programmes have periodically triggered disputes, with affected groups often calling for faster settlement of outstanding obligations.
The government’s intervention in the Masaka case is expected to ease tensions among the suppliers, while also drawing attention to the need for stronger coordination and accountability in the implementation of agricultural support programmes.
Barugahara thanked the public for their attention to the matter and said the resolution demonstrated the government’s commitment to addressing concerns raised by citizens.
