By Haron Okwir
Otuke, Uganda | Farmers across the Lango Sub-Region have been advised to prepare for above-normal rainfall expected in August 2025, with the Uganda National Meteorological Authority (UNMA) warning of potential adverse effects on agriculture and livelihoods.
The forecast was made public during a farmer sensitization session held on Monday, June 16, in Oyiro Amyem Village, Olworngu Parish, Adwari Sub-county, Otuke District.
The one-day training was organized by Facilitation for Peace and Development (FAPAD) and attracted farmers from six villages in the area.
According to Benson Abuka, a representative from UNMA and the day’s lead facilitator, districts such as Amolatar, Dokolo, Lira, Alebtong, Kole, Apac, Oyam, and Otuke as well as parts of neighbouring Acholi like Agago will receive higher-than-normal rainfall.
He cautioned that the heavy rains, coupled with thunderstorms, may lead to soil erosion, flooding, post-harvest losses, and reduced tuber formation in crops like sweet potatoes.
Abuka encouraged farmers to adopt measures such as contour farming to conserve soil and water.
He further advised communities to rehabilitate agricultural infrastructure in anticipation of floods, to ensure continuity in food production.
FAPAD official Gift Asiyati urged farmers to grow high-yielding and flood-tolerant crops such as rice, soya, millet, and sorghum.
She warned against cultivating in waterlogged areas, emphasizing that not all crops can withstand prolonged moisture conditions.
Patrick Omara Laban, the LC II Chairperson of Olworngu Parish and a beneficiary of earlier FAPAD interventions, said the knowledge he gained in a February training enabled him to plant his maize crop on time, which is now thriving.
He appealed for continued farmer support and praised FAPAD’s role in building resilience among rural communities.
Okwang Sub-county Chief, Moses Owaach, reminded farmers to put their training into action.
He criticized the common practice of planting without weather knowledge and said such poor planning has kept many households in poverty.
The forecast comes at a critical time as farmers across northern Uganda prepare for the second planting season.
Authorities and civil society actors continue to emphasize early preparedness to avoid the devastating consequences of erratic weather patterns.
