Ugandans urged to engage in commercial farming

15 November 2024, 10:43 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

According to reports, Uganda’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is largely derived from agriculture, with over 60 percent of the workforce engaged in this sector, primarily in rural areas. Agriculture is a cornerstone of Uganda’s economy, providing livelihoods for a significant portion of the population and contributing substantially to the nation’s GDP.

The Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Hon. Frank Tumwebaze, has encouraged Ugandans to continue engaging in commercial farming, emphasising its potential as a pathway to wealth. “I encourage Ugandans, especially farmers, to engage in commercial farming to generate income that can be used to cater to other needs,” Mr. Tumwebaze said.

Engaging in commercial farming in Uganda demands thorough planning and efficient resource allocation. To succeed, it is vital first to comprehend the demand for specific crops or livestock in the target market. After this, a detailed plan should be developed, outlining goals, budget, crop selection, and marketing strategies. Securing land is a foundational step, which can be done through purchase, lease, or family inheritance. It is important to ensure that the land is suitable for farming and that proper documentation, including land titles and necessary license for commercial farming is obtained to avoid future legal disputes.

Speaking to journalists, Mr. Ongua Fanuel, a research officer at the National Agricultural Research Laboratories (NARL) under the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), emphasised the importance of understanding soil pH in determining suitable crops. “Knowing the pH level determines how soil absorbs nutrients and water. If the proper pH level is not maintained, many nutrients in fertilisers will go to waste because the soil cannot absorb them, resulting in minimal and poor-quality yields,” he said. Crop selection should be based on market demand, soil type, and climate conditions. Commercial farming also benefits from advanced agricultural techniques and technologies, which can significantly increase crop yields compared to traditional subsistence farming methods.

In Uganda, several laws and policies support commercial agriculture by promoting sustainable practices, protecting land rights, and improving food security. The National Agricultural policy (2013) aims to boost agricultural productivity, enhance food security, and support rural livelihoods by focusing on sustainable farming practices, value addition and market access. The Agricultural Extension Policy enhances farmers’ knowledge and skills in modern agricultural practices through extension services and encourages public private partnerships for improved service delivery. The Land Act (1998) governs land ownership and management recognising both customary and freehold tenure systems, protecting land rights, and outlining processes for land acquisition and dispute resolution.

Financial initiatives such as the Agricultural Credit Facility, Uganda Development Bank, and Agricultural Insurance Scheme offer funding for agricultural projects and protection against crop failure and livestock diseases. The government of Uganda has also launched technical initiatives to support commercial farmers. For instance, the Parish Development Model aims to lift 17.5 million Ugandans out of poverty by integrating subsistence households into the monetary economy. This model focuses on producing 14 key commodities, including maize, bananas, beans, and coffee, to build a resilient food system. The Minister confirmed in Kampala that the Ministry will continue to support farmers to the very end.