Farmers in Mubende District are grappling with confusion and mounting uncertainty following unusual rainfall in July, a month typically characterised by sunshine and dry conditions.

The Uganda National Meteorological Authority (UNMA) has confirmed that the abnormal rains—witnessed across much of central and western Uganda—are the result of shifting regional weather systems influenced by Lake Victoria.

Omony George, a meteorologist at UNMA, explained that the persistent rains are linked to active weather patterns driven by changes in wind direction and increased moisture flow.

“Traditionally, July is a dry season,” Omony said. “However, due to enhanced convergence over Lake Victoria and surrounding areas, we are seeing increased rainfall, especially in the central region. This trend is likely to continue until the end of the month.”

For farmers in Mubende, the change has brought confusion and disruption. July is typically the time to clear fields and allow the sun to dry the soil in preparation for the next planting season.

Instead, constant downpours have rendered gardens waterlogged and unusable.

“We don’t know what to do anymore,” said Sarah Namubiru, a smallholder farmer in Kitenga Sub-county.

“The rains have ruined our seeds and we lack money to buy new ones. Even the soil isn’t ready for planting—it’s just too wet.”

UNMA and agricultural experts have since urged farmers to adapt. Weather analyst Kalema Abubakar attributes the abnormal conditions to changes in wind systems that are drawing moist air into the country.

“These rains are not normal for this period,” Kalema said.

“But they also present an opportunity for early land preparation. Farmers should begin tilling their fields where possible and install drainage systems to manage excess water.”

He added that climate variability is likely to become more frequent, urging farmers to pay closer attention to weather forecasts and adopt flexible agricultural practices.

In the meantime, many farmers are counting financial losses. With spoiled seeds and disrupted calendars, some fear that the unpredictable rainfall could further threaten food security in the region.

“We are appealing to government and agricultural extension officers to come to our aid,” said John Ssenoga, another farmer in Mubende.

“We need proper guidance on what to plant and how to protect our crops from this unpredictable weather.”

The Ministry of Agriculture has yet to issue formal guidelines, but UNMA is expected to release an updated seasonal forecast later this week.

As climate change continues to alter Uganda’s traditional weather cycles, experts warn that greater investment in farmer education, weather monitoring, and climate-resilient agriculture is urgently needed to safeguard rural livelihoods.