Katakwi Farmers' Coffee Dreams Wilt Under Severe Drought

In Katakwi District, a government-backed initiative to introduce coffee farming as a means of economic upliftment has been severely hampered by a persistent drought. Earlier this year, over 10,000 robusta coffee seedlings were distributed to local farmers with high expectations of improving household incomes.

However, the dream is rapidly turning into a nightmare. A recent assessment of farming communities in Usuk and Ngariam counties revealed that the majority of the seedlings have dried up, leaving farmers disheartened and their investments lost. The Vice President, Ms Jessica Alupo, had launched the initiative in May, promoting robusta coffee as a resilient crop suitable for the Teso sub-region.

Farmers like Ms Anna Mirio from Odoot village, who received 55 seedlings, reported that “every single seedling is dead” due to the lack of rain. She noted that only those with access to home water sources managed to keep a few alive. Similarly, Mr Martin Egwarat, a former local chairperson, stated that out of his 200 seedlings, none survived, with termites also consuming the remnants. He expressed skepticism about the sandy soils’ ability to support coffee without consistent water.

Local leaders are advocating for better preparation, suggesting the establishment of demonstration gardens to educate farmers on coffee cultivation techniques before seedling distribution. They also question the economic viability of coffee compared to other crops that have historically struggled in the region. Ms Jopita Asio observed that coffee plants grown under the shade of larger trees fared better, suggesting a need for more shade and irrigation.

Retired agricultural officer James Otialuk highlighted that Katakwi’s sandy soils are poor at retaining moisture, making them unsuitable for coffee. He cautioned farmers, recalling similar reports of coffee tree failures in traditionally coffee-growing areas like Masaka. The community is now calling for targeted support and practical agricultural solutions that consider the unique environmental challenges of the region.