NORTHERN PROVINCE

MUSANZE — Farmers of Irish potatoes in the Northern Province have been advised to work in cooperatives in order to gain bargaining power.

Addressing growers and buyers of Irish potatoes on Tuesday, the Minister of Commerce Protais Mitari said joining cooperative societies would minimise farmers’ exploitation by unscrupulous buyers, and improve production capacity.

He advised farmers under the cooperatives to establish ‘central points’ where buyers can access the produce.

"The farmers’ cooperatives should not only negotiate for prices but should make a follow up to ensure that quality products are on market," Mitari said.

Farmers complained that besides being given low prices, their products are taken on credit; making price determination hard, since the prices are always fluctuating.

Without explaining how, members of different cooperatives at the meeting including COIVAMU, CODAFU and Abadahemuka, accused each other of causing price fluctuations which mostly affect farmers.

District authorities have previously held series of meetings in an effort to curtail cheating of farmers, by greedy business dealers, but a lasting solution is yet to be found.

The minister who was meeting the farmers for the fourth time within a period of four months, advised the farmers to ensure quality production in line with the green revolution.

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