LIRA– Farmers, especially those dealing in oil seeds like soybean, sunflower, and sim-sim in Acholi Sub-region, have been advised to stop applying chemicals such as pesticides and synthetic fertilizers in their gardens.
Experts argue that as much as the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides might boost production, it indirectly affects the quality of crops and vegetables that are produced.
“Our market for oil seeds abroad is narrowing since many of the farmers are practicing farming with the application of pesticide and chemicals to get better production,’’ Sam Acuti, Programme Coordinator Jeroma, a company that renders extension services to farmers in Acholi Sub-region.
Instead of using chemicals, Acuti said farmers should apply natural manure as well as use biological pest control methods, which he said are environmentally friendly.
“The natural test in oil seeds is declining and there is no doubt that it’s the usage of such chemicals are to blame,” Acuti noted.
An agronomist in Acholi Sub-region Cyrus Brian Toolit, however, said those who go for chemicals while farming are targeting bumper harvests that are consumed locally.
“Some farmers argue that organic farming is hectic since it needs full-time attention as opposed to those who practice farming which is chemically added,’’ he said
He added that some farmers have ventured into farming that involves the usage of chemicals just because they are being supported by partners who feel that they need good harvests.
Toolit, however, advised farmers to always consider organic farming since it pays well in the long run, adding that organic products are on-demand on the world market.
He acknowledged that they are challenged on what to do when it comes to both farmers practicing organic farming and those who have opted to use chemicals.
Farmers are after production and they pay little attention to what will come out after the usage of the chemicals on their crops and on their land, he said.
But Joan Apio Onguti, whose neighbor uses fertilizers and pesticides to kill weeds, said she would also love to do the same but she cannot afford it.
“Am struggling with low production because I am still stuck with organic farming. My neighbour harvests big quantities because he uses fertilisers,” she said.
https://thecooperator.news/uganda-to-open-eas-largest-organic-fertilizer-in-tororo/
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