Bugisu farmers advised to embrace organic farming for improved yields

Wabyoona emphasised that soils in the Mount Elgon slopes lose fertility rapidly due to increased use of inorganic fertilizers, which negatively affect crop quality.

Bulambuli farmers attending the training acknowledged that continued use of inorganic fertilizers diminishes soil fertility, making it difficult to grow crops without their application.

Oliver Kishelo, a coffee and banana farmer criticised government for not doing much to fight counterfeit agricultural inputs on the local market.

She noted that many food crops produced with inorganic substances lack the natural taste and aroma consumers expect.

Namono Beatrice, a farmer from Sironko, said that her land has become so dependent on chemical fertiliser that she cannot grow onions or tomatoes without applying it, even though it is expensive.

Bududa District Agriculture Officer Stephen Wachawa expressed disappointment with agricultural extension staff for not educating farmers on modern organic farming practices.

He explained that natural manures, such as cow dung and mulch, help retain soil moisture and support beneficial organisms that enhance crop quality.

Alfred Sekele, the District Agriculture Officer for Bulambuli, called on stakeholders in the Bugisu subregion to promote organic farming over conventional inorganic methods.

Last month, Feed the Future Uganda, in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries [MAAIF], and supported by the World Food Programme [WFP], conducted a study on the impact of inorganic versus organic agriculture in the Bugisu Subregion.

The study found that 70 percent of farmers primarily rely on industrial inorganic fertilisers, which deplete soil moisture and expose the land to erosion and mudslides.

https://thecooperator.news/masindi-kiryandongo-maize-farmers-trained-on-proper-use-of-fertilisers/