By Beatrice Nakibuuka
Tomatoes are among the most widely consumed vegetables in Uganda and globally. Whether in homes, restaurants, markets or export chains, tomatoes are in constant demand. For farmers, this represents a significant opportunity to earn a steady income, provided cultivation is done right.
Despite their popularity, many Ugandan tomato farmers face low yields, pest infestations, and poor market prices, largely due to limited knowledge of best agronomic practices. However, with the right techniques and strategic planning, tomato farming can be highly profitable.
Laying groundwork
Success begins with timely soil preparation. In Uganda’s bimodal rainfall zones, preparation should commence at the end of the dry season, typically late January or June depending on the targeted rainy season. Early preparation allows the soil to settle and provides time for nursery establishment and planning.
Gabriel Ddamulira, a researcher at the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), advises that tomatoes thrive in well-drained loamy soils rich in organic matter.
“Farmers should plough and harrow to break up the soil and mix in compost or well-decomposed manure, which enhances soil fertility and structure,” he says.
An ideal soil pH for tomatoes ranges between 6.0 and 6.8. Acidic soils (below pH 5.5) can be corrected with agricultural lime, while overly alkaline soils (above pH 7.5) may benefit from organic amendments.
Spacing, field management
Tomato plants require space for healthy growth, adequate sunlight, and to minimise disease spread. Indeterminate varieties do best with 60cm between rows and 45cm between plants. Determinate varieties, which grow to a fixed height, may require slightly less spacing but still benefit from good air circulation.
“Trellising and staking are vital, especially for indeterminate varieties. They support plant growth and ease harvesting. Farmers can use affordable, locally available materials like eucalyptus poles and banana fibre twine,” Ddamulira says.
Smart intercropping
Tomatoes can be intercropped with crops like onions, garlic, or basil, which help repel pests through their natural sulphur compounds. However, farmers should avoid intercropping with crops like potatoes or eggplants, which share the same plant family (Solanaceae) and attract similar pests and diseases.
Tackling pests, diseases
Pests and diseases are a major challenge. Whiteflies, aphids, thrips, and tomato fruit worms are common culprits, often transmitting viral infections such as Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus.
“Fungal diseases like early blight, late blight, and powdery mildew can wipe out an entire crop during the rainy season,” says Miriam Achieng, a tomato farmer. She recommends integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that combine resistant varieties, crop rotation, proper spacing, and timely application of fungicides and insecticides. Organic solutions, such as neem-based sprays, can offer eco-friendly alternatives.
Profitability in practice
Tomato farming can be highly rewarding when managed well. Agri-preneur Drake Namanya estimates that one acre can yield 8 to 10 tonnes of tomatoes with good agronomic practices. “Depending on the season, with prices ranging from UGX 1,500 to UGX 3,000 per kilogramme, a farmer can earn between UGX 12 million and UGX 24 million per acre in one season,” he explains.
Profitability depends on factors such as seed variety, soil health, pest control, irrigation, and market timing. Off-season production, made possible by irrigation, often brings higher returns. Although hybrid seeds are more costly, they typically provide better yields and resistance to diseases, making them worthwhile for commercial farmers.
Beyond fresh produce
Farmers can increase their earnings through value addition. Processing tomatoes into paste, sauces, or sun-dried products can open up new markets and reduce post-harvest losses—an issue that continues to plague the sector.
Achieng says: “Post-harvest handling significantly affects the shelf life and market value. Tomatoes should be harvested early in the morning, handled gently to avoid bruising, and stored in clean, ventilated crates. Grading and sorting ensure only top-quality produce reaches premium markets.”
Hurdles to overcome
Despite its promise, tomato farming is not without hurdles. Climate change is an ever-present threat, with erratic rainfall, drought, and unseasonal storms disrupting production. While irrigation and greenhouse farming offer solutions, they remain financially inaccessible for many smallholders.
“Quality seeds are often hard to find, and counterfeit or recycled seeds reduce productivity. In addition, agricultural extension services are limited, leaving many farmers uninformed about current best practices,” Achiengs warns.
Post-harvest losses, estimated at up to 40 per cent, are a major concern. A lack of cold storage, poor roads, and market volatility make it difficult for farmers to get fair prices. During peak harvest seasons, a glut in supply often causes prices to crash, forcing farmers to sell at a loss.
Unlocking the potential of tomato farming requires a multi-faceted approach. Investment in agricultural research to develop climate-resilient, high-yield varieties is crucial. Accessible extension services must be scaled up to support farmers with knowledge on best practices.
