Amolatar’s climate-smart agriculture revolution takes root as farmers adopt organic farming

Amolatar’s climate-smart agriculture revolution takes root as farmers adopt organic farming

At the age of 30, Odit Samson, hailing from Kampala Landing Site in the Amotatar District, exemplifies the transformative impact of agriculture in Uganda.

Odit holds a degree in business administration from Uganda Christian University, but he encountered difficulties in the job market.

This experience prompted him to pursue farming as a viable career option starting in March 2024, where he dedicated himself to animal husbandry, goat farming, and crop cultivation, with a particular emphasis on vegetables.

Confronted with the challenges posed by intense draught and its effects on crop yields, Odit made a crucial decision to adopt irrigation.

This strategic shift not only enhanced his crop management practices but also solidified his conviction in the profitability of agriculture.

He cites tomato farming as an example, illustrating that an investment of just 50 grams can yield returns of up to shs1 million.

Odit fervently encourages youth participation in agriculture, highlighting its potential as a pathway to financial independence and a means of contributing to the community by supplying nutritious food.

He points out the benefits of Uganda’s abundant natural resources, particularly its fertile soil and favorable rainfall, suggesting that with effective management and irrigation, farmers can harvest crops up to four times annually.

Nevertheless, Odit is candid about the challenges present in the agricultural sector.

He recognizes the difficulties in securing land, acquiring capital for small-scale irrigation systems that the government has partially funded, and the necessity of commitment to achieve success in farming.

Odit emphasizes the transformative potential of agriculture, not only for individual farmers but for the nation as a whole, advocating for a future in which farming is regarded as a viable and rewarding career option for the youth.

Like Odit, Alfred Okucu, an organic farmer, has adopted an integrated farm plan for his family through various training programs.

He mentioned that his wife manages a kitchen garden, which has enabled them to make better use of land that they previously considered too small.

In response to climate change, Okucu cultivates a diverse range of food crops, including onions, cabbages, oranges, mangoes, avocados, maize, cassava, bananas, and various tree spices.

He noted that since he began organic farming, he has never experienced a day without financial stability.

When asked about the pesticides and fertilizers he employs, he explained that he uses organic pesticides that he prepares himself.

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Okucu plans to implement a four-acre model farm, having already developed three acres, with one remaining.

Given his proximity to the lake, he intends to establish a small-scale irrigation project in the near future.

He emphasized that due to climate change, he is currently cultivating a wide variety of crops to adapt to the changing conditions.

“I have planted various tree species, including mangoes and oranges, each accompanied by banana plantations, passion fruits, beehives, and cashew trees,” Okucu added.

Additionally, Silvia Alaba, a farmer from Amolatar Town Council, shared her experience of learning smart farming techniques, particularly the benefits of greenhouse cultivation.

She recounted how a friend from Zimbabwe trained her, illustrating how her life transformed through the practice of climate smart agriculture.

“My friend from Zimbabwe started with a kitchen garden right around her home, and now she has become a landlord, all thanks to her kitchen garden,” Silvia stated.

“I have been inspired to engage in climate smart agriculture, and I am now cultivating a variety of crops, including vegetables, Irish potatoes, cassava, sweet potatoes, carrots, green peppers, yams, red peppers, coriander, tomatoes, parsley, onions, and beetroots, among others,” Silvia stated.

She mentioned that she utilizes polythene bags and makeshift structures as her gardening space, employing locally produced fertilizers and manure.

At present, Silvia has constructed a dam to collect rainwater and she is also planning to drill a well on the property to provide water during dry spells.

She advised farmers practicing smart agriculture to undertake the work themselves to reduce expenses.

Betty Okucu, a farmer from Awelo village in Odyedo parish, shared that through various training sessions with multiple organizations, she has established a kitchen garden that has alleviated her food insecurity.

She noted that her kitchen garden provides her with sufficient food and income, significantly enhancing her quality of life.

“In addition to my kitchen garden, I am cultivating crops and planting trees, which assist in covering my children’s school fees. Although I currently lack a reliable water source, I am growing various organic drought-resistant varieties. Most importantly, my kitchen garden has improved my food security and financial situation,” Betty Okucu remarked.

Betty’s story reflects a broader narrative within Uganda, where many farmers are increasingly turning to sustainable practices to combat food insecurity and enhance their livelihoods.

The shift towards kitchen gardens and organic farming not only addresses immediate nutritional needs but also serves as a foundation for financial stability.

As more farmers adopt innovative agricultural practices, there is a palpable sense of hope and determination within the community.

These farmers are not just cultivating crops; they are sowing the seeds of resilience and self-sufficiency.

Odit’s focus on irrigation and crop diversity, Alfred’s commitment to organic farming, Silvia’s smart climate agriculture, and Betty’s efforts in kitchen gardening illustrate the diverse approaches being taken to adapt to changing environmental conditions.

According to Ojok Francis, also known as Abu, Amolatar is one of the districts participating in the Uganda Climate Smart Agricultural Transformation Project, which encompasses a total of 69 districts across the country.

The project is set to run for four years, during which Amolatar district has undertaken several activities.

Ojok stated that under this initiative they will also implement road chokes to facilitate farmers’ access to markets for their produce.

“We have identified approximately ten chokes within Amolatar district and have submitted this information to the Minister of Agriculture. Additionally, the project will establish an integrated laboratory,” Ojok further explained.

He mentioned that through the climate-smart agriculture initiative, the district has pinpointed sites for design collaboration with the ministry.

This aspect will specifically focus on water for production whereby the district has proposed the construction of 15 tanks and valley dams, including multipurpose dams for aquaculture, livestock watering, and other production needs.

“We have submitted these proposals, and we are now prepared to implement all the value chains. These include crop, livestock, fisheries, and beneficial insect value chains, or entomology,” Ojok noted.

“At this stage, we are tasked with identifying three sub-counties per district for each value chain. We need to support various groups associated with these value chains and commence training, advisory services, and demonstrations for crops, livestock, fisheries, aquaculture, and other value chains,” he added.

He emphasized that organizations that provide education on sustainable farming methods play a crucial role in empowering farmers.

For instance, Silvia’s transformation through training from her friend in Zimbabwe underscores how cross-border knowledge exchange can lead to tangible improvements in agricultural practices.

Moreover, the emphasis on organic farming and the use of locally sourced inputs reflect a growing consciousness about environmental sustainability.

Ojok said that they will conduct research on particular value chains in collaboration with the Ngetta Zardi Agricultural Institute.

He indicated that process of procuring vehicles and motorcycles for extension workers to assist in educating farmers on the best practices of climate-smart agriculture is already underway.

“Farmers are beginning to realize that the health of their land is intrinsically linked to their long-term viability. By adopting organic farming practices, they not only enhance soil fertility but also contribute to the overall health of their ecosystems,” Ojok said.

This story was supported by InfoNile in partnership with Palladium under the Climate Smart Agriculture Reporting Project.