Account for the introduction of cash crops in Uganda during early 20th century

The introduction of cash crops in Uganda during the early 20th century was driven by several key factors:

• Colonial Economic Policies: The British colonial administration aimed to make Uganda economically self-sufficient and profitable. They introduced cash crops to generate revenue and reduce reliance on financial support from the British Treasury.
• Introduction of Cotton: Cotton was the first major cash crop introduced in Uganda. In 1904, K. Borup of the Anglican Church Missionary Society imported cotton seeds and distributed them to local chiefs in Buganda. The success of cotton cultivation led to its widespread adoption.
• Expansion to Other Cash Crops: Following the success of cotton, the colonial administration encouraged the cultivation of other cash crops such as coffee, tea, and tobacco. These crops were introduced to diversify the economy and increase export revenues.
• Infrastructure Development: The construction of the Uganda Railway facilitated the transportation of cash crops to coastal ports for export. This infrastructure development was crucial in supporting the growth of the cash crop economy.
• Taxation and Land Policies: The introduction of monetary taxes, such as the hut tax, compelled Ugandans to engage in cash crop farming to earn money for tax payments. Additionally, land policies that privatized land ownership in Buganda encouraged the cultivation of cash crops.

These factors combined to transform Uganda’s economy from subsistence farming to a cash crop-based economy during the early 20th century.

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Thanks

Dr. Bbosa Science