Uganda’s agriculture is the most dominant sector that drives the economy. In Uganda, it employs workers who account for over 70% of human resources in Agriculture. Ensuring food security is on the central agenda for the sector. And at the same time, the sector has a role in the economic development of the country. Out of the crops grown, tomatoes are special because of their usage and demand. Tomatoes are parts and parcels of most Ugandan foods. 

Tomato farming has in the recent past been considered an avenue for income improvement among farmers. Tomato farming is becoming the order of the day in Uganda. Especially with smallholder farmers embracing this farm produce. This change is as a result of the profitability of this crop as well as the increasing market demand within Uganda and other countries.

But tomato farming has its challenges. Farmers face hardships such as pest and disease challenges and marketing access difficulties. This being the case, however, there are opportunities in the tomato industry, as depicted below.

This article is a case analysis of the possibility of tomato production in Uganda. It considers farmers’ problems, the measures taken to address them. The following factors can be seen in Uganda that predict the development of the tomato industry.

Tomato farming in Uganda has some difficulties that affect its development. These challenges can be grouped into three main categories:

This includes complications arising from production and technical aspects. There are market demands and the prevailing environmental conditions.

Among all the issues affecting farmers, challenges in production are significant contributors. Tomatoes are also affected by pests and diseases. Specifically late blight (Phytophthora infestans). Unfortunately, most farmers cannot prevent these problems. Due to the high cost of purchasing effective pesticides. Moreover, poor-quality seeds lead to bad yields, which affect productivity.

Market barriers also have a very important role to play in the difficulties faced by the tomato farmers. There needs to be adequate transportation facilities and this is equally worst in rural areas. There, tomatoes are produced and need to be transported to the market centers. This problem is compounded by the fact that tomatoes are highly perishable products. Hence, post-harvest losses are high. Also, the market prices of various crops are volatile. This makes it difficult for farmers to determine their earnings and thus organize for production.

Other conditions, including climate change, affect the farming of tomatoes in other ways. Fluctuations in weather conditions, especially in areas of climatic variability. Such as droughts and floods, can be disastrous to crops. These conditions not only numerically lower yields but also expose farmers. Who are, in most cases, struggling to make economic profits.

To meet the challenges faced in tomato farming in Uganda, the following solutions have been implemented. These solutions aim to improve agricultural techniques. Which will create better markets for farmers, and promote sustainable farming.

One of the main activities implemented, to this effect, has been the release of better Tomato varieties. For instance, the Tomato Ansal F1 hybrid is such a variety. This variety contains relatively high resistance to pests and diseases, as it is relatively new. It also has higher yields and a much shorter growth cycle compared to the normal variety. Thus, a game changer for farmers. Through these enhanced breeds, farmers can enhance their yields. This will cut on potential crop hazards.

Training and education have also been vital in a bid to overcome some of the challenges. These include integrated pest management training. Such as efficiency in water use training, resource use efficiency training, and training on other farmers’ sustainable farming practices. This capacity building focuses on training by agricultural extension services. NGOs have empowered farmers with information and methods to enhance their yields.

Policies aimed at the market include enhancing supply chain reliability. Farmers’ cooperation societies have been built, and transport facilities have been developed to some extent. Such frameworks have assisted farmers in getting access to larger markets. And preserving products from post-harvest losses, and getting better prices for their produce.

The successful implementation of solutions in Uganda’s tomato farming sector has involved a coordinated effort among various stakeholders. Including the government, NGOs, private sector partners, and the farmers. The process has been strategic, focusing on pilot programs. Gradually adopting new practices and integrating technology to support farmers.

Implementation Steps:

Pilot Programs:

Small-scale pilot projects were initiated to test improved tomato varieties. Such as the Tomato Ansal F1 hybrid in select districts. These pilots allowed farmers to experience the benefits of the new variety firsthand, leading to wider adoption. 

Example: In Wakiso District, pilot projects demonstrated the effectiveness of the Tomato Ansal F1 hybrid in increasing yields. As a result, more farmers in the region began using this variety, leading to significant improvements in productivity.

Training and Education Programs:

Farmers received training on sustainable farming practices through workshops and farmer field schools. These programs focused on integrated pest management, efficient water use, and soil fertility management.

Example: The National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) conducted training sessions in Mukono District. Where farmers learned to manage pests using organic methods. Now, they are reducing their reliance on chemical pesticides.

Formation of Farmer Cooperatives:

The farmer cooperatives were set up to facilitate smallholder farmers’ combining efforts in resource, technology information, and market access. These cooperatives also ensured that they bought inputs in large quantities. And they have subscribed for better bargaining prices. 

Example: In Luwero District, a tomato farmers’ cooperative was formed to improve market access. The cooperative secured a contract with a major supermarket chain. Where farmers are provided with a stable market and better prices.

Infrastructure Development

The less developed transportation network was a boost and development of chilling centres. To address post harvest losses were some of the investments that were made. This has been made possible by the other complementary infrastructure developments. That has been put in place to make sure adequate tomatoes get to the market in good condition.

Example: In Mbale District, constructing a cold storage facility significantly reduced post-harvest losses for tomato farmers. The facility allowed farmers to store their produce and sell it at peak market prices.

Use of Technology:

Agriculture and ICT innovation were introduced to give farmers timely information on prices. All the tools used assisted the farmer in arriving at the right decisions while enhancing productivity in equal measure.

Example: Farmers used a mobile app in the Arua District to access up-to-date market prices and weather information. Enabling them to plan their harvests more effectively and reduce losses due to unexpected weather changes.

These solutions have in specific ways, helped to boost the tomato farming business in Uganda. And thereby improving the income and sustainability of the farming business.

Thus, the use of the Tomato Ansal F1 hybrid variety was credited with improving yield by as much as 150%, thus increasing farmers’ incomes. For example, in Wakiso District, the yield per hectare rose from an average of 10 to well over 25 tonnes. Which after using the hybrid variety and employing the right methods.

There were also more economic positives. For instance, farmer cooperatives in Luwero District were able to raise selling prices by 30%. Farmers experience improved marketing opportunities and the power of group bargaining. Moreover, post-harvest losses were cut by 40% in the areas. Where they introduced cold storage for farmers’ own produce for sale when prices were high in the markets.

There have also been environmental benefits. Such as using sustainable practices and technology that cut down on chemicals and improve ground health. These interventions show positive results. That can be obtained for developing the Uganda tomato industry.

The progress in Uganda’s tomato farming industry shows the significant potential of innovative practices. By adopting improved varieties, enhancing market access, and promoting sustainable farming. Farmers have achieved remarkable increases in productivity and income.

These successes lay a strong foundation for the future of the industry. With opportunities for further growth in value addition, export markets, and technological integration. Continued stakeholder support will be crucial to sustaining this momentum. Ensuring that Uganda’s tomato industry continues to thrive and contribute to the nation’s economic development.