Drought wipes out Uganda’s first large-scale wheat harvest

The first large-scale attempt to grow wheat in the Karamoja region of northeastern Uganda has ended with an almost complete crop failure. A prolonged dry spell that began in mid-May destroyed more than 200 acres (about 81 ha) of wheat, causing losses for more than 40 farmers.

The project was launched this year with government support as part of efforts to develop commercial agriculture and diversify crop production in Karamoja. Farmers received government-supplied seed and planted wheat in May. The crop initially established well, but began to wither rapidly after the rains stopped.

The scale of the losses was significant. The government provided farmers with 8 tons of wheat seed, but only 3.69 tons were planted due to drought concerns and late seed deliveries. Ultimately, farmers managed to harvest only about 200 kg of wheat.

Despite the failed season, local farmers have not abandoned plans to grow wheat. Previous trials in Karamoja in 2014 showed that the crop can perform successfully in the region when sufficient moisture and proper crop management are available. Farmers are now seeking support for irrigation, mechanization and seed supplies before trying again.

Wheat is only part of a broader effort to diversify agriculture in Karamoja. Authorities also plan to expand production of sunflower seed, cotton, cashew nuts, macadamia and sorghum, while attracting investment to establish an agro-industrial hub for agricultural processing.

Tags: weather conditions, wheat, drought, Уганда