By James Alomu

As the rainy season sets in, families in the Teso region have been urged to make the most of the early rains to plant crops that will ensure their food security.

Martin Egadu, also known as Ekanyapuru, the area councilor for Mukura Paris, made this call during a recent interview, emphasizing the importance of taking immediate action to benefit current and future agricultural needs. The onset of heavy rains has provided farmers with a vital window to plant crops that can thrive during the season.

However, Egadu expressed concern that many community members often dismiss the initial rains in the hope of more to come. He warned that this delay in planting could lead to missed opportunities, urging farmers to seize the rainfall while it lasts.

"The unpredictability of the rains is a reality we cannot ignore," Egadu said. "Many people think that there will always be more rain, but that is not always the case. We must value the rain that we have right now and use it to plant crops for our consumption."

The councilor noted that relying on forecasts or assuming that rain will continue indefinitely can be a dangerous gamble.

The weather patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable, and farmers must act quickly to benefit from favorable conditions. 

Egadu highlighted the role of early planting in ensuring that families have enough food throughout the year, especially as climate change continues to affect agricultural patterns in the region.

In addition to urging timely planting, Ekanyapuru also addressed the issue of free-roaming livestock, which can be a significant threat to crops.

He expressed concern over animals that are allowed to wander unchecked, as they often destroy newly planted fields. "Livestock owners must ensure that their animals are securely confined," he said. "Allowing them to roam freely exposes crops to unnecessary destruction, which can significantly impact food security."

This call to action emphasizes the importance of responsible farming practices and highlights the need for community members to take immediate steps to protect both their crops and livestock.

Egadu’s message is a timely reminder for the people of Teso to act now, capitalize on the rains, and safeguard their agricultural futures. The early rains present an opportunity that should not be ignored, as they could be the key to ensuring food security for the region in the coming months.