Apac farmers cry out as sunshine burn yields

31 December 2025, 9:50 pm

By, Mike Okwang Ogule & Daniel Odongo

Farmers in Apac District and across the wider Lango sub-region are grappling with severe crop losses as prolonged sunshine continues to disrupt agricultural production and threaten household food security. The drought has devastated a wide range of crops, including maize, beans, sunflowers, and soybeans, which are both staple foods and vital sources of income. Many farmers who planted based on forecasts predicting continued rainfall are now watching their crops dry up before reaching maturity.

A recent Radio Apac survey revealed that most gardens across the region have been scorched by excessive sunshine, with crops wilting at early growth stages. This has led to drastically reduced yields and financial strain for farming households. One of the affected farmers.

Mr. Santo Ogweng from Atik Division in Apac Municipality, said he harvested only one bag of maize from two acres of land. “I expected a better harvest, but the prolonged sunshine destroyed my crops. I appeal to the government to provide drought-resistant seeds to help farmers cope with climate change, especially prolonged droughts,” he explained.

Similarly, sunflower farmer Mr. Daniel Anok reported heavy losses after hiring land and planting sunflowers with the hope of making a profit. “The sunshine was too much, and the crop failed completely. We need government support, especially drought-resistant seeds, to survive the next planting season,” he said. Another maize farmer, Mr. Denis Ongar, noted that he had anticipated harvesting more than 20 sacks of maize from his two acres, but the prolonged sunshine drastically reduced his yield. “The sunshine affected the crops badly,” he said, adding that access to drought-resistant seeds would help farmers adapt to the changing climate.

When contacted, Apac District Production Officer Ms. Betty Jokene attributed the low crop yields to late planting by some farmers who expected rainfall to continue longer than it did. “Farmers who planted around July registered better yields. Those who planted late are the most affected. Weather patterns are increasingly unpredictable, and farmers must plan early and learn from.

current conditions,” she advised. Ms. Jokene further noted that the district continues to provide agricultural extension services, including guidance on improved farming practices and access to drought-resistant seed varieties, although these inputs are largely acquired at individual farmers’ cost.

With agriculture being the backbone of Apac’s economy, many households now fear severe food shortages if the drought persists. The situation also threatens children’s education, as reduced household income limits families’ ability to meet school-related expenses.