By: Naomi Akao🇺🇬

Lira City, Uganda – As the first planting season approaches, agro-input shops in Lira City have reported a slight increase in the prices of seedlings.

The surge in demand for maize, soya beans, and sunflower seedlings has led to a price hike, leaving farmers scrambling to acquire the necessary inputs.

According to local agro-input dealers, the price increase is a direct result of the intensified demand for seeds. Jimmy Ogwang, Director of JX Farming Solution, noted that while demand for seedlings is high, his company has not increased prices to exploit farmers.

“We understand the importance of affordable inputs for our farmers, and we’re committed to supporting them,” Ogwang said.

However, other dealers have reported significant price increases. Caroline Ogwang of Toraro Agro Inputs revealed that the price of DK777 seeds has risen to UGX 40,000 due to overwhelming demand.

“We advise farmers to plant early to ensure a good harvest,” Ogwang cautioned.

Oscar Olido, proprietor of Paco Opur Agro Inputs, attributed the price surge to manufacturers increasing prices at the production point due to high demand brought on by the rainy season.

As farmers in Lira City and surrounding areas prepare to start planting, the price increase has raised concerns about the affordability of essential inputs. Farmers are urged to explore alternative options and plant early to mitigate the effects of the price surge.