farming 17 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Chananke Onion Market Transforms Lives in Kisoro District
High-quality onions from Kanaba Sub County in Kisoro draw traders from across Uganda and neighboring countries, boosting farmer incomes and creating jobs. The market has evolved from a small-scale venture into a thriving economic hub since 2005. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/farming/how-chyananke-onion-market-is-changing-lives-in-kisoro-5426862
In the hilly terrain of Kanaba Sub County, Kisoro District, the Chananke Trading Center has emerged as a bustling hub for onions. Located about 12 km from Kisoro town, it attracts buyers from Uganda, South Sudan, Rwanda, Kenya, and DR Congo due to the superior quality of the produce from 23 surrounding villages.
Onion farming began modestly in 2005 after locals shifted from tobacco. Pioneer farmer Henry Kazinda, LC1 chairman of Kibande village, recalls prices for a 120kg bag starting at Shs50,000-70,000. Now, they fetch Shs500,000 to Shs1 million per bag, enabling many to upgrade from grass-thatched homes to permanent structures.
Production has surged as farmers from nearby areas lease land, with an acre yielding up to 120 bags of 180kg each in a good season—potentially Shs60 million gross revenue. This has spurred youth and women employment in sorting and packing, while the market sees 200 daily visitors including vendors.
Land rental rates have doubled to Shs2 million per acre annually. Yet challenges persist: traders risk carrying cash without mobile banking, and farmers seek government aid for irrigation, sanitation, piped water, free seeds, and subsidized inputs to ensure year-round yields.
Extension services offer guidance on soil management, but locals emphasize onions’ profitability for cash income and nutrition.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)