Jonathan Moru, a farmer from Nadunget sub-county in Moroto district, laments that despite having over four acres of land prepared for planting, he is unable to proceed without seeds.
Farmers across the Karamoja sub-region are expressing
frustration over delays in the government's distribution of seeds during this
crucial planting season. Despite the onset of rains in early April in some
parts of Karamoja, farmers have yet to plant crops three weeks later due to the
absence of seeds.
This delay is exacerbating food insecurity concerns, as many
households have depleted their cereal reserves intended for cultivation. Jonathan
Moru, a farmer from Nadunget sub-county in Moroto district, laments that
despite having over four acres of land prepared for planting, he is unable to
proceed without seeds.
Moru's plea for timely seed distribution echoes
sentiments shared by many farmers who rely on government support for
agricultural inputs. Similarly, John Boso Akore, secretary for the Kotido Elder
council, highlights the community's efforts to engage in commercial farming to
enhance food security among the Jie people.
However, Akore underscores the
challenges of inadequate seeds and mechanization, urging the government to
prioritize reliable, drought-resistant seeds tailored to the region's climate.
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Meri Jino, the LC5 Chairperson of Kaabong district,
emphasizes the urgency of seed distribution as the planting season draws to a
close. With local cereal stocks depleted during periods of food scarcity, Jino
stresses the need for government intervention to alleviate the seed shortage
and enable farmers to capitalize on the available rainfall.
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In response to these challenges, the government has
collaborated with the Nabuin Zonal Agricultural Research Institute to develop
improved seed varieties suitable for Karamoja's climate.
Dr. Paul Okullo, the
institute's Director of Research, acknowledges delays in seed distribution but
assures farmers of imminent delivery following guidelines from the Office of
the Prime Minister.
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Lawrence Aribo, manager of Applied Meteorology and Climate
Services at the Uganda National Meteorological Authority, provides insights
into the region's weather patterns, emphasizing the importance of tree planting
to mitigate climate extremes.
Despite near-normal to above-normal rainfall
projections for central parts of Karamoja, Aribo warns of potential flash
floods and advises communities to remain vigilant.
