By Umar Nsubuga
Maize holds a special place as a staple crop that supports both local diets and economies. However, the journey from harvest to market is fraught with challenges, particularly in preserving the quality of maize for long-term storage.
Ensuring the longevity of this vital crop post-harvest is essential not only for food security but also for maximising profitability for farmers.
With proper storage techniques and pest management strategies, maize can remain a valuable asset for farmers, providing sustenance and income throughout the year.
By adopting effective methods to enhance storage life, Ugandan farmers can transform their maize production into a resilient and thriving agricultural enterprise.
The importance of proper storage
For Twaha Kakooza, a commercial farmer in Kayunga district, the journey of maize farming does not end with harvesting.
He emphasises that proper storage is pivotal to maximising profits and minimising losses.
“Most farmers face challenges with pest infestations and spoilage during storage, leading to significant economic losses,” he notes.
By focusing on effective storage techniques, farmers can maintain the quality of their maize, allowing them to sell it at optimal prices even months after harvest.
Choosing the right storage facilities
One of Kakooza’s key recommendations is selecting appropriate storage facilities.
He advocates for using well-ventilated, moisture-free environments to keep maize safe from pests and spoilage.
“Metal silos are an excellent investment,” he explains.
Unlike traditional wooden or thatched storage methods, metal silos protect the maize from moisture and pests, ensuring that it remains fresh for longer periods.
Kakooza also advises farmers to keep storage areas clean and dry, regularly inspecting for signs of pests or mold.
Preparing maize for storage
Before storage, Kakooza stresses the importance of proper maize preparation.
He recommends thorough drying of the maize kernels to a moisture content of about 13-15%. “The drying process is crucial; if maize is stored while still wet, it can lead to mold growth and spoilage,” he warns.
Farmers should spread their harvested maize on tarpaulins or clean surfaces under the sun to ensure even drying. After drying, it’s essential to cool the maize before placing it in storage to further prevent moisture buildup.
Pest management strategies
Pest infestations can wreak havoc on stored maize, leading to financial losses.
Kakooza shares several effective pest management strategies. He suggests using natural repellents such as neem leaves or pyrethrum to deter pests.
Incorporating insect traps in storage areas can help monitor and control pest populations.
“Regularly checking for pests is vital. Farmers should be proactive, inspecting their stored maize and taking immediate action if they notice any signs of infestation,” he advises.
Implementing integrated pest management
Kakooza champions the use of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) as a holistic approach to pest control. This involves combining various strategies such as biological control, habitat manipulation, and cultural practices.
By understanding the pest life cycles and behaviors, farmers can implement targeted interventions, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides while ensuring a healthy maize crop.
Educating the community
Beyond his personal farm, Kakooza is passionate about sharing his knowledge with fellow farmers. He frequently conducts workshops and training sessions to educate them on effective maize storage techniques.
“Knowledge sharing is crucial. When we empower our community with the right information, we all benefit,” he states.
By fostering a culture of learning, Kakooza hopes to build a resilient farming community that can thrive in the face of challenges.
