By Umar Nsubuga
Nakati, a beloved leafy green in Uganda, is not just a nutritious vegetable it’s also a profitable crop that’s transforming the lives of small farmers.
Joseph Bukenya, a vegetable farmer from Luwero district has discovered firsthand how nakati can be a reliable source of income.
With its relatively low growing costs and steady demand, nakati has become a “money maker” for farmers like Bukenya, helping him support his family and improve his farming practices.
“Nakati is special,” Bukenya says with a smile.
“It’s not only easy to grow but also quick to mature, meaning I can harvest it multiple times a season,” he says.
For Bukenya, the benefits go beyond just the fast-growing nature of the crop.
Nakati is hardy and resistant to many pests and diseases, making it ideal for small-scale farmers with limited resources.
“You don’t need many chemicals or fertilizers for nakati. Once you plant it, you just need to keep an eye on it and give it enough water,” he adds.
Growing nakati
Bukenya explains that one of the reasons nakati is a profitable crop is its low start-up cost. Seeds are affordable, and nakati thrives in most types of soil.
Bukenya starts by preparing the land thoroughly, making sure it is free from weeds and well-drained.
“I spread the seeds directly onto the soil, and within a few weeks, the young plants are already visible,” he says.
Nakati doesn’t need much fertilizer, although composted manure helps improve yields.
He also notes that nakati’s short growing period about 6 to 8 weeks from planting to the first harvest allows him to plant it multiple times a year.
“I can harvest nakati up to five times from a single planting, which really boosts my income,” Bukenya explains.
The profitable side of nakati
For Bukenya, the profits from nakati have been life-changing.
“Each week, I take bundles to the local market, and they sell out fast,” he says.
On average, he can make up to sh50,000 per week from nakati alone. This steady income has allowed him to invest in better farming tools and equipment, and even expand his plot over time.
Bukenya attributes nakati’s popularity to its versatility in Ugandan cuisine. Known for its mild, slightly bitter flavour, nakati is a staple in local dishes and is often used in sauces, soups, and stews.
“People here love nakati. It’s affordable, nutritious, and can be cooked in many ways,” he notes.
Its health benefits, including high levels of iron, calcium, and vitamins, also appeal to health-conscious consumers.
Expanding
Bukenya’s success with nakati has allowed him to diversify his farming. With the earnings he makes, he can afford to experiment with other vegetables and crops, creating more income streams for his household.
“The profits from nakati gave me a foundation. Now, I can plant more crops and even save for the future,” he says proudly.
He encourages other farmers to consider nakati as a viable crop for their farms.
“Nakati may seem simple, but it’s a true asset. With the right care and attention, it can be a real game changer for farmers,” he advises.
