Dry spell threatens coffee seedlings distributed to farmers in Chua chiefdom

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Farmers in Chua chiefdom within Kitgum district's Namokra sub-county are facing a dire challenge in nurturing newly planted coffee seedlings. A prolonged dry spell has settled over the area, threatening the tender young plants.

Recently, an initiative saw the distribution of 70,000 coffee seedlings across the chiefdom, a project spearheaded by Ker Kwaro Chua, under the stewardship of Rwot Roy Ogwok Lugone Lureanagmoi II, in partnership with Kawacom Uganda Ltd. This endeavour aims to cultivate high-value crops that can foster socio-economic transformation within the community.

However, many farmers are disheartened as they watch their precious coffee plants wither under the relentless sun. 

Charles Komakech Latigo, a local farmer, lamented that nearly all the 120 seedlings he received have succumbed to the harsh conditions. 

He attributed these unfortunate losses to planting the seedlings in an open garden, which left them exposed to the scorching rays of the sun during this unforgiving drought.

In contrast, certain regions, such as Luguru, close to winding rivers, have been more fortunate. 

These areas benefit from cooler temperatures and gentle breezes that provide some relief, resulting in healthier coffee plants flourishing under these more favourable conditions.

Conversely, farmers residing in water-stressed regions are battling with scant irrigation options, as dwindling water supplies threaten the survival of their remaining seedlings.

A recent inspection by Kawacom agronomist Filder Oyella revealed a disparity: Coffee plants that were nurtured under the protective canopy of shade thrived, while those planted in direct sunlight had largely perished.

Despite previous training on modern farming techniques, Oyella said some farmers still adhere to traditional practices, including digging shallow or unsuitable holes that stunt the growth potential of coffee plants.

However, she urged farmers to water their crops regularly, apply mulch to conserve essential soil moisture, and consider implementing drip irrigation systems to mitigate the effects of the dry season.

Another agronomist from Kawacom, Denty Mwaka, pointed out that the banana plants initially used for shade lacked drought resistance and have now dried up, leaving many coffee plants vulnerable to the relentless exposure. 

He recommended that farmers establish shade before planting their coffee and suggested using pigeon peas as a temporary solution. 

These resilient plants grow rapidly and provide effective cover compared to less hardy banana plants.

Farmers in Chua East have reported experiencing an alarming extended dry spell, particularly between November and December, with the skies remaining stubbornly clear and devoid of any significant rainfall.

In response to this agricultural crisis, officials from the Acholi sub-region have made a passionate plea to the Uganda Meteorological Authority to decentralise weather stations.

This would enhance access to timely and localised weather forecasts, allowing farmers to make more informed decisions.

Meanwhile, the Government is pushing for the cultivation of high-value crops, including coffee, macadamia, and cocoa, across the Acholi sub-region, channelling an investment of up to Shs65 billion into the initiative. 

Despite this substantial support, farmers remain concerned, expressing that unpredictable and erratic rainfall patterns continue to jeopardise their hard work and aspirations. 

They are now urgently appealing to the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF) for the construction of water dams and the provision of irrigation systems, which would greatly assist farming communities in navigating the challenges presented by prolonged dry seasons.