By Jovita Mirembe
As many farmers adopt conventional methods to boost coffee productivity, Henry Galiwango, a lecturer at the School of Education at Makerere University and a consultant with Kilimo Trust, highlights that sustainable, organic farming practices are more effective and better than conventional farming methods.
According to Galiwango, while conventional coffee production systems are common, farmers can still maintain and improve their coffee gardens using local and organic practices.
‘‘Using organic methods like slashing, mulching, and careful hand-hoeing, are sustainable approaches which promote long-term coffee productivity. These practices protect the environment and preserve the health of the coffee gardens and ensure they remain viable for future generations,’’ Galiwango said.
He advises enriching soils with organic matter, such as cow dung, mulching, and planting leguminous trees like albizia, which not only improve soil fertility but also provide much-needed nitrogen.
Organic pest control measures, including natural repellents, help protect coffee plants without introducing harmful chemicals, ensuring that the beans remain market-acceptable, he explains.
Galiwango adds that coffee is more than just a crop, it is a way of life, a means of survival, and a source of hope for future generations.
His comments serve as an inspiration to farmers across Uganda, demonstrating that coffee when nurtured with care and dedication, can be a green gold that sustains families and communities for years to come.
