Residents in Kamonyi District have raised concerns over the suspension of small milling machines used to process cassava, maize, soybeans and other grains, saying the move has affected access to essential services.
The operators said they were instructed more than two weeks ago to stop operations until they comply with hygiene and safety requirements issued by local authorities.
Among the requirements, operators said they were asked to improve their working premises, install tiled floors, provide toilets and bathing facilities for workers, ensure access to clean water, and provide each worker with a litre of milk daily.
The suspension has particularly affected residents in Nyarubaka Sector, who now have to travel longer distances to access milling services, including going to Musambira trading centre or neighbouring Muhanga District.
“We were called to an urgent meeting and informed that the machines had to stop operating immediately. Since then, people have struggled to find where to process cassava, soybeans and maize,” one resident said.
Another resident said the closure had disrupted services that many households depend on for processing agricultural produce.
Operators said they support efforts to improve hygiene standards but argued that some requirements are difficult to meet due to financial constraints.
“Many of us acquired these machines through bank loans. The additional requirements, including constructing workers’ facilities, installing water points, painting premises and providing daily milk, increase costs and make repayment more challenging,” one operator said.
However, Nyarubaka Sector Executive Secretary Minani Jean Paul said authorities did not close the milling machines but instead instructed operators to comply with food safety and hygiene regulations.
Speaking to Radio1, Minani said the measures are intended to protect workers’ health and improve services provided to residents in line with district guidelines.
He said operators are required to provide clean water, toilets, bathing facilities, proper work clothing and other hygiene measures.
The affected machines are mainly small-scale facilities located in trading centres and used by residents who process small quantities of agricultural produce. Some were operating in premises that did not meet basic hygiene standards.
Operators said they are ready to improve sanitation conditions but requested support and flexibility as they work to meet the required standards.
