By Emmanuel Olinga
Farmers in Katakwi District have called upon the government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, to deliver seeds on time, citing the urgency of early planting to address food insecurity.
The farmers argue that delayed seed distribution has hampered agricultural productivity in previous seasons, leaving many households vulnerable to hunger and poverty.
Simon Peter Odakai, a resident of Opedongor, and Sarah Asire, a parish councilor representing elders in the LCIII council, have urged local leaders in Teso to prioritize the timely supply of agricultural inputs.
They emphasized that late seed distribution has negatively affected harvests, particularly in Katakwi and neighboring districts that have already suffered from cattle raids and prolonged droughts.
“We need leaders to ensure seeds are delivered early so that farmers can plant in time for the rains. Fast-maturing crops like maize, beans, sorghum, and simsim are crucial in fighting food insecurity and poverty,” said Asire.
Simon Peter Okwakol, widely known as Iwapi, has advised farmers to take advantage of the early rains to cultivate high-yielding crops.
He urged residents to recognize the importance of rainfall patterns in securing good harvests.
Meanwhile, Michael Oumo, the LC1 Chairperson of Alukucok, attributed the high levels of poverty in Teso to leadership gaps.
He argued that many local leaders have failed to inspire communities to engage in productive agricultural activities that can drive development.
“If our leaders were proactive in mobilizing people to embrace farming as a business, we would see economic transformation in Teso. Agriculture remains the backbone of our region, but we need proper guidance and support,” Oumo noted.
With the onset of rains, Elungat James, another local leader, has advised Katakwi farmers to focus on growing fast-maturing crops that can boost household food security and income.
He specifically recommended crops such as green gram and peas, which are well-suited for short rainy seasons and provide nutritional benefits.
“Farmers should act now and plant before the rains become unpredictable. We encourage them to grow crops that can quickly mature and sustain their families,” Elungat advised.
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