PROLONGED DRY SPELL LEAVES FARMERS CAUTIOUS AS SECOND PLANTING SEASON BEGINS
By Biko Rombe
Gulu City
Farmers in Northern Uganda are entering the second planting season cautiously after prolonged dry spell caused significant crop losses during the previous season.
Gasper Anam, a farmer from Oyam district, says he planted two hectares of maize but harvested only two sacks instead of the more than 10 sacks he expected.
He says his soya beans also dried up, leaving him with only two basins from the two-hectare garden.
Jusper says the experience has made some farmers reluctant to invest heavily in crops this season, although he is encouraging fellow farmers to plant trees because they can withstand varying weather conditions better and provide long-term benefits.
Another farmer, Odokonyero Richard from Amuru district, says he also suffered losses after planting rice, maize and soya beans during the previous season.
He is now encouraging farmers to consider crops that can withstand dry conditions while also investing in trees.
Ojwer Charles, Production Officer for Bardege-Layibi City division, says the first season performed poorly because of prolonged dry spell linked to climate variability. He expects better rainfall patterns during the second season and is encouraging farmers to plant.
William Ocen, owner of Waneno Anyim Nursery Bed, is also urging farmers not to be discouraged by the previous season, saying the current rains give trees planted now time to establish.
The first planting season generally runs from March to June or July, while the second season runs from August or September to December.
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