The Bishop of Lango Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Alfred Olwa, has cautioned coffee farmers against planting seedlings with their covering husks, locally known as “cavera,” warning that the practice can lead to poor growth and drying of the plants.
Bishop Olwa made the remarks while addressing clergy during a coffee training session held at Canon Lawrence Conference Hall in Boroboro.
He emphasized that successful coffee farming requires diligence and proper handling of seedlings. “The cavera should be removed and kept aside before planting. Leaving it on the seedling affects its survival,” he noted, while urging participants to take the training seriously and work hard for better outcomes.
The training brought together over 200 clergy from across the Lango Diocese and was organized to equip religious leaders with essential knowledge before the distribution of coffee seedlings.
Andrew Awany, Regional Agricultural Officer covering Lira, Alebtong, Otuke, Dokolo, Kalaki, Kaberamaido, and Amolatar districts, said the initiative followed a request by the diocese to the Ministry of Agriculture.
He explained that the training focused on coffee agronomy, including planting techniques and crop management during dry seasons.
“Our goal is to see coffee grown in churches, schools, and communities. These leaders will also pass on the knowledge to their congregations,” Awany said.
He added that coffee farming has proven potential to reduce poverty, noting that well-managed coffee can generate between shs5 million and shs10 million per acre annually.
He also encouraged the growing of cocoa as a complementary perennial crop. Awany identified knowledge gaps and poor dry-season management as key challenges affecting farmers but expressed optimism that the training would lead to significant improvements.
Lira District Production Officer, Thomas Okello, urged clergy to take initiative in acquiring seedlings instead of waiting for government distribution.
“Coffee, if well maintained, can pay school fees and improve livelihoods. Lango must embrace change for a better future,” he said.
Senior Agricultural Officer Patrick Alip revealed that authorities would conduct verification and monitoring of seedling distribution. He also encouraged institutions to utilize their land productively to prevent encroachment.
Rev. Jimmy Francis Odongo, the Diocesan Youth and Children Coordinator, highlighted the link between poverty and limited church development.
“It is difficult to pastor poor communities. Coffee farming is a practical solution that can uplift both the church and its members,” he said, urging youth participation.
Participants welcomed the training, with Domnic Acai from Alira Archdeaconry describing it as vital for development and poverty eradication.
Sharon Abaro of St. Thomas Otim Tom Church of Uganda expressed optimism, saying she would apply the knowledge gained to improve her livelihood.
The initiative marks a significant step in promoting coffee farming as a pathway to economic empowerment in the Lango sub-region.
