In May 2025, the prices of key staple food crops in Uganda, including sweet potatoes and cabbages, rose notably, despite overall monthly inflation remaining stable at 0.5%, according to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS).
The latest Consumer Price Index data indicates that the price increases were primarily driven by seasonal shifts and supply constraints. Sweet potatoes and cabbages experienced some of the sharpest price hikes during the month.
Samuel Echoku, UBOS's Head of Macroeconomic Statistics, attributed the rise in prices to recent weather changes that disrupted harvest cycles. "Season changes have greatly contributed to the price changes for food crops like matooke," he explained.
Echoku noted that much of the previous matooke harvest was sold off or dried, leading to a temporary supply shortfall. Although the onset of rains has prompted many farmers to replant, the new crops are not yet ready for market, contributing to reduced availability.
Perishable produce, particularly sweet potatoes and cabbages, has been most affected. The short supply has pushed prices upward, adding pressure to household food budgets even as headline inflation remains under control.
Regionally, inflation trends varied. Masaka recorded the highest inflation rate at 5.3%, followed by Kampala's high-income areas at 4.8%, while Mbale registered the lowest at just 0.5%. These figures reflect regional disparities in produce availability and market pressures.
The May 2025 data highlights the sensitivity of Uganda's fresh produce markets to climatic variability and supply-side disruptions. Analysts caution that continued monitoring and responsive policies will be essential to stabilise food prices as the country transitions into its next planting and harvest cycle.
Source: Nile Post
