Tembo FM

Kitgum farmers urged to plan early for first planting season

17 January 2025, 4:50 pm

Kitgum District Head Quarter.

By Otim Moses

Farmers in Kitgum District and neighboring areas have been urged to use the dry season as a planning period for the first planting season, which begins in late March or early April.

The call was made by the Kitgum District Agriculture Officer, Mr. Denis Ocira, on Friday morning during an exclusive interview with Tembo FM.

Mr. Ocira noted that many farmers tend to remain idle during the dry season. However, he emphasised that this period should be used to prepare for the upcoming planting season by clearing land, selecting crops, and mobilising inputs, among other activities, to avoid being caught unprepared when the rains start.

He also encouraged farmers to take advantage of the tractors provided to the district, which are more affordable compared to those rented from private individuals or companies.

Additionally, Mr. Ocira urged farmers to apply for the Micro-Scale Irrigation Project, which has been extended by four months. This initiative promotes climate-smart agriculture by enabling farmers to acquire irrigation equipment, reducing their reliance on rainfall for planting crops. He added that adopting such practices would significantly improve farmers’ livelihoods and lead to a transformative impact on their lives.