Lira University Vice Chancellor, Professor Jasper Ogwal Okeng, has pledged to prioritize cocoa farming on the institution’s land.
During a tour of Trinity Mixed Farmstead in Dokolo on August 1, 2024, Professor Okeng announced that a portion of the university’s vast land would be allocated for cocoa farming, generating substantial revenue for the institution.
Professor Okeng commended the management of Trinity Mixed Farmstead for introducing cocoa farming in the region and expressed gratitude for the knowledge and skills acquired during the visit.
He emphasized that the university would take cocoa farming seriously and explore opportunities for partnership with the farm.
The Farm’s Director, Mr. Ogwal Oyee, highlighted the need for farmers to receive training on growing and processing cocoa, a specialized crop. He noted that equipping farmers with the necessary skills would reduce poverty levels in the community and increase income through improved crop productivity and quality.
Mr. Ogwal Oyee also emphasized the importance of forming a Cooperative Society for bulk storage to attract better prices and ensuring quality from planting to post-harvesting.
He encouraged cocoa farmers to process cocoa into semi-processed products like cocoa powder and butter, which are in high demand on the international market.
The Farm Manager, Solomon Adim, discussed the three main varieties of cocoa grown in Africa and emphasized the need to increase cocoa production in Uganda.
He advised planting hybrid cocoa varieties that mature earlier and are resistant to pests and diseases, which would reduce production costs and encourage more farmers to grow the crop.
Cocoa production plays a vital role in sustaining the livelihoods of millions of people worldwide.
The global economy relies significantly on cocoa production, which in turn supports the social fabric and environmental well-being of cocoa-producing regions.
According to Solomon Adim, there is a growing trend among farmers in Northern Uganda to adopt cocoa farming as a viable agricultural practice.
Adim advised novice farmers to commence with a minimum of one hectare of land, enabling them to acquire essential skills and realise profits.
ENDS.
