RDC Samuel Mpimbaza Hashaka says crop thrives in Obongi’s hot, dry weather and matures in 70 days
BY OKIDI PATRICK
OBONGI — Obongi Resident District Commissioner Samuel Mpimbaza Hashaka has carried out a successful pilot on growing watermelons in the district, as part of efforts to promote scientific and commercial farming among residents.
According to RDC Samuel Mpimbaza Hashaka, he embarked on the research after realizing that many wanainchi lacked guidance on modern crop growing methods and commercial agriculture.
“I decided to test watermelon growing because people need practical examples of how to move from subsistence to commercial farming,” Hashaka said.
The experiment
Hashaka said he first studied the watermelon — a big green fruit with sweet red and pink juicy flesh that grows on vines along the ground. The fruit is 92% water and is known for being super hydrating, sweet and refreshing.
He also noted that watermelons are rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C and lycopene, which are good for the heart, circulation and controlling bloating.
To test viability, the RDC bought a watermelon from Gulu, ate the fruit and planted the seeds at his home in Obongi. He also bought a tin of watermelon seeds from Omia Seeds Company in Obongi Town and planted them on the same piece of land.
“All the seeds did very well. After 70 days they are all ready for harvesting,” he disclosed.
Favorable conditions
Hashaka revealed that watermelons do well in hot weather like that of Obongi and also perform well during the dry season, making them a good option for farmers seeking income and food security.
He urged farmers in Obongi and the West Nile region to embrace commercial agriculture, use improved seeds, and apply scientific methods to increase yields and household incomes.
Agriculture officials in the district welcomed the RDC’s initiative, saying it will encourage more residents to venture into high-value, short-season crops.
Obongi RDC Samuel Mpimbaza Hashaka has successfully grown watermelons in 70 days. He says the crop thrives in Obongi’s hot, dry climate and is rich in vitamins. He is urging locals to adopt scientific, commercial farming.
He revealed that each watermelon weighs between five to twelve Kilograms.
He said that he is now selling the watermelons by slicing so that he makes more money from them .
The watermelons survived the harsh hot weather conditions in Obongi for about three months.
He said he no longer buys watermelons since he cultivates them.
Hashaka disclosed that his next step is to involve the agricultural department in Obongi in his discovery and encourage people to start commercial agriculture of watermelon on a large scale.
Hashaka disclosed that he intents to do more research on other suitable fruits and crops that can do well in the district.
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