Kole, Uganda: Farmers in Northern Uganda’s Kole District have been cautioned to remain alert against counterfeit seeds and rising agro-input prices as the new planting season kicks off across the Lango sub-region.
Richard Opio, the District Production Officer, warned that unscrupulous dealers are exploiting the high demand for seeds by flooding the market with substandard and fake products, posing a serious threat to farm productivity and food security.
“Farmers who use fake seeds risk poor germination, reduced yields, or total crop failure,” Opio said, advising growers to buy only from licensed and reputable agro-input dealers.
“By carefully sourcing seeds from certified and trusted agro dealers, farmers can safeguard their investments and ensure better outcomes for their planting season,” he added.
The alert comes amid reports of fluctuating seed prices across the region, particularly in Lira City, the commercial hub of northern Uganda’s agricultural supply chain. Experts warn the price instability is providing fertile ground for counterfeiters.
Farmers Advised on Seed Verification
Patrick Ogwang Medmac, the Quality Assurance Officer of the Lango Agro-input Dealers Association (LASA), urged farmers to be vigilant in verifying seed authenticity. He advised farmers to check proper labeling, examine packaging for certification marks, and consult sub-county agricultural extension officers if in doubt.
“Counterfeits thrive where farmers are desperate or unaware. Always ask questions, verify seals, and demand receipts from licensed shops,” Ogwang said.
Prices Spike for Most-Used Seeds
Prices for major crop seeds such as maize, soybeans, groundnuts, and sunflower have surged, with some varieties registering dramatic increases compared to last season.
In Lira City, the maize seed variety DK777 is now retailing at UGX 42,000 per sachet or UGX 470,000 per carton, up from UGX 30,000 a few weeks ago.
Caroline Ogwang, a sales representative at Tomaro Agro Input Shop, said the price hike reflects overwhelming demand. “Farmers are buying in bulk because of the urgency to plant, which has pushed prices up,” she said.
Oscar Olido, who runs Paco Opur Agro Input Shop along Olwol Road, attributed the increase to production-stage adjustments by manufacturers trying to meet regional demand.
Jimmy Ogwang, Director of JX Farming Solutions on Aduku Road, said that while their prices have remained stable so far, they anticipate potential adjustments due to nationwide supply pressure in the coming weeks.
The first planting season in northern Uganda typically begins in March and runs through July-August, while the second season begins in August and ends in January.
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