Japanese-Backed Rice Trials Aim to Boost Yields and Cut Costs for Lira Farmers

Rice farmers in Lira District are testing new crop varieties and compost manure to lower production costs and improve harvests through a partnership with the Embassy of Japan in Uganda.

At the Olweny Irrigation Scheme in Itek Sub-county, members of the Itek-Okile Rice Growers Multipurpose Co-operative Society have traditionally relied on manual methods, such as broadcasting seeds and threshing with sticks. While these practices have sustained families for decades, many growers struggle with low returns due to poor water management, post-harvest challenges, and a lack of optimized seed selection.

To address these hurdles, Japan deployed agricultural specialist Mikio Kasahara under its volunteer program. Since arriving in Uganda, Mr Kasahara has conducted field trials comparing various rice varieties to determine which perform best under local conditions. His work tracks crop growth, pest resistance, and disease management to guide farmers toward better practices.

In addition to seed selection, the initiative introduces compost manure production as a cost-effective alternative to expensive commercial fertilizers. Farmers utilize organic waste and compost pits to naturally boost soil fertility. Furthermore, the collaboration has improved field layouts by introducing better bunds and waterways, giving farmers greater control over irrigation.

Masanobu Yonemitsu, head of economic cooperation at the Japanese Embassy, noted that the volunteer program complements large-scale infrastructure projects by directly empowering rural households to raise their living standards through enhanced agricultural productivity.

Read more about these agricultural initiatives at the Daily Monitor.