farming 11 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Irish Potatoes Revolutionize Farming and Livelihoods in Zombo District
Farmers in Zombo District's highland areas like Zeu, Mandhebako, Nyapea, Warr, Aka, and Jangokoro are thriving through Irish potato cultivation, turning small plots into profitable ventures. The crop's quick harvests, high yields, and steady market demand are boosting incomes, nutrition, and local businesses. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/farming/how-irish-potato-growing-is-transforming-lives-in-zombo-5419918
In the misty highlands of Zombo District, West Nile region, Irish potatoes are reshaping rural economies. Once-reliant on underperforming cassava and maize, farmers now cultivate this hardy crop on terraced hills, yielding substantial profits.
In Aka Sub-county, Collins Agenonga Wanok shares his success story. Starting with Shs1 million in 2023, he planted one bag of seeds and harvested 21 basins, selling for Shs945,000. Subsequent seasons brought escalating returns: Shs3.5 million, Shs6 million, and Shs18 million from larger plantings. He credits quality seeds, virgin soil, vigilant pest control, and best practices for up to 40 bags per acre.
Demand surges from local chip makers in Zeu, Paidha, and Nyapea, plus traders from Arua, Nebbi, and DR Congo. Agenonga aims for Shs50 million this season via Zombo District Farmers Association (ZODFA), though poor roads hinder access.
Georgina Giramia echoes the transformation, noting the crop’s three-month cycle funds school fees and family needs. Even on fragmented small plots under two acres, it delivers surplus for sale while improving household nutrition.
District Production Officer Walter Kumakech highlights potential yields of 80 bags per acre with good methods, plus job creation in transport, trading, and chips stalls. Youth like Joseph Opar in Paidha earn independently frying potatoes.
Challenges persist, including pests, diseases, erratic rains, soil degradation from outdated methods, limited quality seeds, storage, and tractor services. Yet, agricultural support is helping farmers adapt.
Irish potatoes symbolize hope, fostering resilience and opportunity across Zombo’s villages.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)