Lamwo farmers cautioned against early sale of harvested produce

The Lamwo District Agricultural Officer has issued a strong caution to local farmers, advising them to refrain from selling their farm produce immediately after harvesting.

The warning comes amidst concerns that many farmers are rushing to sell their crops during the early harvest period, often at significantly lower prices.

According to Komakech Richard Cyrus, the Lamwo district agricultural officer, this practice undermines the true value of the harvest, exposes farmers to exploitation by middlemen, and ultimately affects household food security.

“Many farmers are tempted to sell early due to pressing financial needs, but this leads to poor returns and worsens poverty levels in the community,” Komakech stated during a sensitization meeting held at the district headquarters.

He encouraged farmers to explore collective storage methods, such as bulking centers and community granaries, to help them wait for better market prices. He also urged them to consider value addition where possible, saying it can increase the profitability of their produce.

The district leadership is now working closely with farmer groups, SACCOs, and NGOs under agricultural programs to promote financial literacy, access to markets, and the use of post-harvest handling techniques that reduce losses and preserve quality.

While some farmers welcomed the advice, others expressed the daily realities that force them to sell early. Jennifer Akello, a farmer from Atwol parish in Padibe, understands what the Agricultural officer is saying, but revealed that school fees and hospital bills don’t wait.

“If I get a buyer even before I finish harvesting, I sell part of the maize to survive and Carter for my needs.”

Another farmer, Otto Richard, from Padibe East sub-county, said group storage has helped him. “Last year I joined a farmers’ group and stored my beans until prices improved. I was able to buy two goats from the profit.”

Otto called for more government support. “We need better storage facilities and access to low-interest loans, that way we won’t have to sell in panic.”

The district agriculture department says it will continue to engage the farming community through training and partnerships with NGOs to promote better harvest management and improve livelihoods.

As harvest season kicks in across Lamwo, the caution serves as a timely reminder for farmers to protect the value of their sweat and plan for sustainable incomes.

The caution comes at a crucial time as harvesting of crops like maize, beans, and groundnuts begins across Lamwo, a district heavily reliant on agriculture for livelihoods and food security.