Otuke farmers advised to use quality seeds for better yields
KAMPALA, February 13, 2026 — As the new planting season approaches, farmers in Otuke district have been urged to secure certified, high-quality seeds to boost yields.
According to Kitizo Otim, a crop protection specialist, farmers should abandon rudimentary farming methods and adopt modern agricultural techniques to enhance production and productivity.
He noted that many farmers in the area have yet to embrace modern agriculture, continuing to rely on traditional seeds and outdated practices that result in low yields.
“However, when the Sasakawa Africa Association [SAA] intervened, trained farmers and introduced new farming methods such as the use of certified seeds, improved agronomic practices and machinery, production increased significantly. A number of farmers have started embracing these changes,” he said.
Otim made the remarks recently while training members of the Otuke Farmers’ Cooperative Society during a recent field visit organised by the SAA.
Otim, who is also a seed dealer, said that after receiving training from SAA, he opened an agro-input shop to address the challenge farmers in Otuke faced in accessing certified seeds, which had negatively affected their production.
“They trained us and supported us financially, and I greatly appreciate the journey we have taken so far,” he said.
He added that there are plans to introduce additional services, including tractor hire, in the near future to help farmers transition from subsistence to commercial farming.
He expressed optimism about the forthcoming planting season, noting that demand for quality seeds has already begun to rise as farmers recognise the benefits of planting certified seed.
“My message is that we cannot remain in the past because things are changing every day. As a farmer, you need to adapt and embrace modern practices to reap better returns from your hard work,” he said.
Jonathan Katende, SAA’s Technical Coordinator for Regenerative Agriculture, said the organisation had also invested in strengthening human capacity through training in leadership, governance and post-harvest handling.
He urged farmers to increase production and productivity through improved access to quality seed.
He added that the organisation works with commercial, community-based facilitators who earn commissions while continuously providing services to farmers and training them in good agricultural practices.
https://thecooperator.news/new-planting-season-amuru-farmers-seek-government-support-on-seeds/
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