By Jovita Mirembe
The escalating demand for onions both domestically and on the global market today, has spurred a rise in onion farming. This trend, fuelled by the need for this kitchen staple, has gained momentum due to its potential for substantial earnings.
Henry Galiwango, a lecturer in Agricultural Science at Makerere University’s School of Education, says that at the core of this favourable venture lies the cultivation of drought-tolerant onion varieties, offering an avenue for viable incomes for dedicated farmers.
He says that the key to the surging popularity of onion farming is the unrelenting demand for the vegetable.
“With a thriving market within the country and beyond, the draw of onion farming is multifaceted. An essential driver of its profitability is the notably high yield per acre that onions can deliver, surpassing that of many other crops. Proficient farmers employing appropriate onion varieties and advanced farming techniques can achieve impressive yields of up to 30 tonnes per acre. This inherent yield potential translates into increased profits, establishing onion farming as a prudent financial pursuit’ Galiwango says
He says that , the economic appeal of onion farming is enhanced by its fundamental role in Ugandan households.
Galiwango says that a staple in myriad culinary preparations, onions hold a significant place in kitchens across the nation. Additionally, the resonance of Ugandan onions in international markets adds to their demand, providing farmers with opportunities to capitalize on exports and augment their earnings.
He said that to attain peak profitability, adherence to sound farming practices is crucial. This involves meticulous land preparation, strategic irrigation, balanced fertilization, and robust disease management. Equally vital is the selection of onion varieties suited to local conditions and market preferences.
Julius Kizza an onion farmer in Kabarole says that in an agricultural landscape shaped by escalating demand and prolific yields, the emergence of drought-resilient onion varieties stands as a beacon of promise for farmers.
He says that the convergence of sustenance and economics is redefining the agricultural narrative, ushering in the potential for reasonable incomes and a promising agricultural trajectory.
Kizza says that there are four varieties of drought resistant onions that are grown in Uganda as mentioned below.
Red Pinoy F1 Onion Variety
The Red Pinoy F1 Onion Variety is a profitable variety in Uganda. This variety is known for its deep red color and high yield. It takes approximately four months to mature and can yield up to 30 tonnes per acre. The Red Pinoy F1 Onion Variety is ideal for farmers who want to target the high-end market.
Red Creole Onion Variety
The Red Creole Onion Variety is a profitable variety that could be grown in Uganda. This variety is known for its deep red color and resistance to diseases. It takes approximately four months to mature and can yield up to 25 tonnes per acre. The Red Creole Onion variety is ideal for farmers who want to target the export market.
Red Grano Onion Variety
The Red Grano Onion Variety is another profitable variety. This variety is known for its deep red color and high yield. It takes approximately four months to mature and can yield up to 30 tonnes per acre. The Red Grano Onion Variety is ideal for farmers who want to target the high-end market.
Bombay White Onion Variety
The Bombay White Onion Variety is a profitable variety. This variety is known for its mild flavor and long shelf life, making it a Favorite among traders. It takes approximately four months to mature and can yield up to 25 tonnes per acre. The Bombay White Onion Variety is ideal for farmers who want to target the export market.
It is known for its attractive white color, mild flavor, and excellent storage quality, making it a profitable onion variety to grow. This variety takes approximately 120-150 days to mature, and it can yield up to 25 tonnes per acre.
