OPD : Agricultural Reform or Setback? UCDA-MAAIF Merger Faces Growing Criticism -Wabusimba Amiri

As an informed Muzukulu, I attentively followed Jajja's State of the Nation Address on the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) merger with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF). With my notebook in hand, I jotted down key points and revisited the address multiple times to grasp its nuances fully. Yet, even after this meticulous review, I find myself grappling with lingering questions about the UCDA's current trajectory.

The merger, intended to streamline governance and align UCDA's operations with Uganda's broader agricultural strategies, sparked a maelstrom of allegations, raising questions about the credibility, timing, and motives behind these claims. Concerns emerged regarding selective seedling distribution and unexplained deductions from farmers’ earnings. These allegations expose systemic governance issues, yet their timing immediately following the merger warrants reflection. Were these long-standing problems neglected, or do they signify resistance from parties with entrenched interests? After operating autonomously for over three decades and elevating Uganda’s coffee industry to international prominence, the UCDA’s merger with MAAIF represents a significant policy shift designed to reduce redundancies and improve service delivery.

During the address, Mityana North MP Hon. Nsegumire Muhamad Kibedi alleged that UCDA distributed coffee seedlings selectively, prioritizing opposition members of Parliament. If proven, such practices undermine the principle that government programs should serve all Ugandans equitably, regardless of political affiliation. Such allegations, whether accurate or politically motivated, raise serious concerns about fairness in resource allocation and the credibility of public programs.

Businessman and NRM supporter Hajj Kasujja alleged that the UCDA Executive Director’s (ED) security detail exceeds that of the President and that accessing the ED is more challenging than meeting the President himself, fostering a perception of untouchability. These claims have intensified calls for a comprehensive audit of the ED’s remuneration, benefits, and privileges. Kasujja further claimed that UCDA deducted UGX 60,000 from every UGX 100,000 paid to farmers without providing a clear explanation for the deductions. If substantiated, such practices would constitute unethical conduct, potentially eroding farmer livelihoods and compromising the integrity of the agency’s leadership. To address these allegations, a forensic audit and thorough investigation are imperative. The Police Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) should engage with Kasujja to obtain detailed evidence, clarifying the purpose of the alleged 100,000= and the legitimacy of their application.

President Museveni reiterated his commitment to transforming Uganda's coffee industry through value addition. Highlighting the nation’s position as Africa’s second-largest coffee producer, he emphasized the need to stop exporting raw coffee beans and focus on industrialization to maximize economic returns. He also reaffirmed the government’s zero tolerance for corruption and inefficiency, stressing that every citizen must benefit equitably from public programs. The UCDA-MAAIF merger is a strategic move to streamline agricultural governance and service delivery, aligning with this vision. However, these allegations threaten to derail progress. Questions about the timing and oversight of these issues persist:

• Were the deductions from farmers’ earnings justified and documented?
• Were the ED’s security arrangements approved and aligned with national policies?
• Was the selective distribution of seedlings politically motivated?

Addressing these concerns requires more than superficial measures that demands systemic reforms to ensure transparency, equity, and accountability within the coffee sector. The Auditor General, Inspector General of Government (IGG), and Parliament must investigate and take corrective action where necessary.

The merger into MAAIF presents an opportunity to rebuild public trust, enhance operational efficiency, and transform Uganda’s coffee sector into a driver of economic growth. However, without decisive measures to address the allegations, the merger risks falling short of its potential. Uganda’s coffee industry holds immense promise, but its success hinges on governance that prioritizes the collective interests of farmers, policymakers, and all stakeholders. As the country moves forward, the commitment to accountability and inclusivity must guide every step. By addressing these challenges transparently and resolutely, Uganda can solidify its position as a global leader in coffee production and processing, ensuring shared prosperity for all.