A sharp increase in meat prices in Kapchorwa Municipality has raised concern among consumers, food vendors, and local leaders, with residents warning that the trend is straining household incomes, threatening livelihoods, and could fuel crime and disrupt the local food economy.
Over the past week, the price of beef has risen from Shs14,000 to Shs16,000 per kilogram, while goat meat has increased from Shs16,000 to Shs18,000 per kilogram.
The hike comes at a time when many households already face rising food costs.
Residents have described the increase as discriminatory, noting that in neighbouring districts such as Bulambuli, a kilogram of beef still sells at Shs14,000.
They argue that the price disparity disadvantages Kapchorwa consumers despite similar livestock production conditions across the region.
Food vendors say the impact has been immediate and severe. Fenny Chekwel, a food vendor in Central Division, says rising meat prices have forced vendors to increase the cost of meals containing meat, driving customers away.
David Kwemwa, a food vendor from Kapchesombe Cell, says his business has nearly stalled.
Kapchorwa District Commercial Officer Justin Jim’s Yeko told Favour fm that the district plans to intervene to regulate prices across key sectors.
As discussions continue, residents have called for urgent intervention, warning that prolonged high prices could permanently alter consumption habits and undermine small-scale food businesses that depend heavily on meat sales.
By URN
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