The Ugandan Government has okayed Shs30 billion for the supply of seedlings to coffee and tea farmers in the regional areas of the country.
The Minister of Finance, Matia Kasaija declared this at the plenary of the supply of coffee and tea seedlings in Uganda.
In his words, “We shall release the money to Uganda Coffee Development Authority and National Agricultural Advisory Services as per the budget. I need to check with the Treasury, but we shall release the money as soon as possible.
“The money in the budget is not sufficient to cover all the seedlings in nursery beds. There is a need for an additional Shs60 billion which will be paid in the next two financial years.
An additional supply of seedlings will be done through the Savings and Credit Associations under the Parish Development Model (PDM).
“Up until the 2021/2022 financial year, government policy had been for Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) and National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) to procure seedlings from certified coffee and tea nursery operators.
“However, the government has since decided to transfer funding previously appropriated for procurement of seedlings from UCDA and NAADs to PDM starting this financial year, 2022/2023.”
Also, the Minister of Agriculture, Frank Tumwebaze added, “The Ministry will ensure that seedlings are supplied, once the authorization is given.
“We have won one step, the Minister of Finance has allowed the supply of seedlings, even if there is no money, as long as the Minister of Finance and the Permanent Secretary and Secretary to Treasury write and authorize supply, it will take place.
“The Ministry of Agriculture together with Finance; will work out modalities on verification of coffee farmers and suppliers.
