In many rural farming communities near forests and hills, one of the most frustrating enemies of crops is not drought or pests, it’s monkeys. These clever and persistent animals have become a serious threat to farmers, especially those growing fruits, maize, bananas, and vegetables.
Charles Lubega, a dedicated farmer from Junda in Luwero, knows this struggle all too well. His garden, which borders a thick forest, is constantly raided by monkeys. “They come early in the morning or late in the evening, they pluck unripe bananas, pull down maize stalks, and even destroy cassava plants just for fun”, he explains.
Lubega says the monkeys are more destructive than birds. “They don’t just eat; they waste. A troop of monkeys can ruin half an acre in one day,” he says.
To combat the menace, he resorted to putting scarecrows, tying noisy tins, and sometimes hiring boys to guard the field during peak hours.
Sam Kasule, a farmer from Semuto, has faced similar challenges. “My watermelon and sweet potato projects have been affected badly. I tried putting up a wire fence, but monkeys still found a way through,” he says.
Kasule has now started using trained dogs to patrol his fields and has planted thorny shrubs along his garden boundary to limit access.
Experts advise that farmers near forests should adopt a combination of methods, including biological, physical, and noise-based deterrents. Motion-sensor alarms, solar-powered lights, and planting monkey-resistant crops around the perimeter can help.
Besides causing food losses, monkey invasions can also spread disease and discourage farming.
