The recent fall in the prices of vanilla has frustrated farmers in Ibanda district, many of them fearing that they may not be able to recoup their investment.
A kilogram of vanilla was valued at 550,000 Shillings in the pre-COVID-19 period. However, this value gradually decreased to 210,000 Shillings in 2021 and worsened in 2022 when the price of vanilla plummeted even further to a mere 50,000 Shillings per kilogram 10 months ago.
Presently, vanilla is being sold for between 3,000 and 4,000 Shillings per kilogram.
Adams Butegyeki, a Farmer from Kyeikucu cell in Kagongo Division says that the financial losses being incurred could become so substantial that they might struggle to recoup the funds invested in their businesses.
Fabius Mwesigye, another Farmer says that this is an unprecedented crisis in the history of vanilla cultivation. He adds that farmers are now cutting down their plants in frustration because many of them invested borrowed funds with the hope of earning a profit from the venture.
Alex Tumusiime, another farmer in Burangiire cell faults Agriculture extension workers for their perceived lack of engagement in identifying and addressing the challenges the vanilla farming community faces.
“The livelihoods of many individuals have been compromised due to the diminishing returns from vanilla farming, making it authoritative for the Ministry of Agriculture to intervene promptly and offer a solution to their dilemma”.
Ibanda District Agriculture Officer Peter Abaho says that his department has no authority over the vanilla market. But he adds, the district Chairperson and council have written to the relevant authorities over the same.
State Minister of Agriculture Fred Bwiino Kyakulaga declared July 27, as the date to commence the harvesting of vanilla. He, however, in his presentation emphasized that there was an increase in global stocks of vanilla which may cause a decline in demand and price in the next few harvest seasons.