Farmers and maize producers in the Acholi districts of Gulu and Amuru have been urged to exercise caution in their use of agrochemicals.
While advising farmers on the responsible use of common agrochemicals such as insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, and inorganic fertilisers, agricultural experts emphasised that although these chemicals improve soil fertility and combat plant infections, their misuse can be harmful.
Gulu district production officer, Jackson Lakor, explained that many farmers have developed a habit of using agrochemicals continuously, even when unnecessary.
Lakor warned that excessive use of insecticides can harm crops rather than protect them, especially when over-applied or when fake or unsuitable products are used.
“Instead of preventing pests, excessive insecticide use can kill plants in the field. The plants also develop resistance, and at the same time, these chemicals destroy essential micro- and macro-organisms in the soil that support plant growth,” said Lakor.
He stressed the importance of following recommended application rates, noting that all agrochemicals come with clear instructions on proper use.
“If applied correctly, insecticides can boost yields, among other benefits,” he added.
Lakor also encouraged farmers to adopt integrated pest management strategies that combine agrochemical use with traditional or organic methods, such as crop rotation and organic fertilisers.
Similarly, Lorna Ajok, an agricultural extension worker in Pukony subcounty, Gulu district, highlighted the importance of understanding the Post-Harvest Interval (PHI) of pesticides.
“Some pesticides take time to break down in plants, and if harvested too early, crops may still contain chemical residues,” said Ajok.
She explained that different pesticides have PHIs ranging from three to twenty-one days, making it crucial for farmers to know the specific waiting period before harvesting.
Ajok advised farmers to consider agrochemicals as a last resort, encouraging alternative pest control methods such as early planting, careful seed selection, and mulching.
How farmers responded
Lilian Etoto, a maize farmer, shared her struggle with persistent worm infestations in her fields, which she attributed to her habitual use of insecticides. She now plans to reduce chemical use, believing her crops may have developed resistance.
“I think my garden and plants have already become resistant to the chemicals I’ve been using. I hope that cutting back this planting season will improve my yields,” she said.
Robert Abonga, another farmer, expressed concerns about his small land size, which has made him rely heavily on inorganic fertilisers. However, after the training, he resolved to adopt organic methods such as green manure, farmyard manure from animal dung, and intercropping to enhance soil fertility and pest control.
The training programme
The advisory was issued during a one-day training session attended by at least 400 individuals involved in the maize value chain, including farmers, millers, transporters, and produce buyers from Gulu, Amuru, and Elegu border market. The training took place between March 18 and 20, 2025.
Organised by the Southern and Eastern Africa Trade Information and Negotiations Institute (SEATINI) in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries and the Gulu and Amuru district local governments, the initiative aims to improve maize production and ensure it meets international health and market standards.
