In a bold move to address the persistent threat of striga weeds, commonly known as “Kayongo,” Erisa Lugwire, a former Kigulu North constituency aspirant and National Unity Platform (NUP) member in Iganga district, has taken the Ugandan government to court. The lawsuit, filed in Iganga High Court on Thursday, alleges that the government has neglected its duty to provide viable solutions to the striga weed problem, adversely affecting farmers in the Busoga region and beyond.
Striga weed, notorious for depleting soil fertility and impeding crop growth, has posed a significant challenge to local farmers, resulting in substantial losses. Lugwire’s civil petition, filed under Article 222(1) of the Uganda Constitution and section 3(1)(c), 4(1), and 9(2)(c) of the Human Rights (Enforcement) Act 2019, demands government action and accountability.
Lugwire, represented by defense lawyers from Taka and Company Advocates, is joined by fellow farmers across the country engaged in commercial and subsistence farming, specializing in maize, sorghum, other cereal crops, and sugarcane cultivation. The lawsuit urges the government to develop effective solutions for combating the weed and ensure the availability of a suitable herbicide in the Ugandan market.
The NUP farmer advocates for private individuals to import herbicides due to the government’s alleged failure to address farmers’ concerns promptly. Lugwire contends that the government should issue a public apology to farmers and compensate them for the incurred costs in combating the invasive weed.
The former NBS Television broadcaster perceives this legal action as a critical step in the fight for soil conservation, aiming to counteract the acidic substances brought about by the striga weed that could negatively impact soil fertility for generations. Lugwire asserts that his advocacy has faced opposition from fertilizer producers and dealers who fear potential business disruptions.
This legal move follows Lugwire’s earlier petition on the same matter in Jinja High Court, which reportedly faced challenges and was thwarted by individuals with vested interests, leading to Lugwire’s repeated arrests after filing the suit in 2020. The lawsuit signifies a farmer’s resolute stand against agricultural challenges and seeks accountability for the government’s role in safeguarding the livelihoods of Ugandan farmers grappling with the striga weed menace.
