JACKFRUIT(FENE) FARMING: TIMO FRESH FRUIT FARM MODELING JACKFRUIT FARMING IN LANGO

JACKFRUIT FARMING In Northern Uganda, a renowned accountant has turned a passion for farming into a flourishing enterprise. Tom Otim Otile, the visionary behind Timo Fresh Fruit Farm Enterprise, has transformed 5.3 acres into a thriving haven for fruits and vegetables. AMbience Located in the fertile lands of Northern Uganda in Kole District, Timo Fresh Fruit Farm specializes in jackfruit, pawpaw, avocado, banana, gonja, and various vegetables. Spanning over 5.3 acres, this farm isn’t just about agriculture, it’s a testament to sustainability and innovative farming techniques. Bite… Tom Otim Otile, currently working with Timo Associates in auditing, envisioned this farm as a retirement security plan. His journey began in 2014 after returning from the UK. Inspired by a visit to a Tanzanian farm in 2016, he decided to focus on jackfruit, locally known as “Fene.” Today, the farm boasts 365 jackfruit stems on three acres, nurtured by unique irrigation and manure techniques. A solar pump with a capacity of 3,000 liters per hour and an effective land management system, known as Oligo, help Timo maintain the farm's productivity. This system not only deters intruders but also protects the plants. Bite… Innovations abound at Timo Fresh Fruit Farm. Tom adopted the use of drip lines from hospitals for plant irrigation. These drip lines, attached to 20-liter jerrycans, regulate water flow according to heat levels, ensuring consistent watering even during dry seasons. Another noteworthy innovation involves mounting outlets on water pipes to irrigate manure pits, enhancing soil fertility. However, the farm faces its share of challenges. Fungal diseases affecting the fruits, initially thought to be caused by fruit flies, have been a persistent issue. Additionally, pests and diseases have tested Tom's resolve. Yet, mulching has proven to be a game-changer, reducing these threats significantly. One unique aspect of Timo’s farm is a dedicated jackfruit stem for religious leaders. Every harvest from this stem is given to ordained members of the community, fostering a sense of spiritual connection and giving back. Bite… Despite the hurdles, Tom’s dream is to add value to his produce. A jackfruit in Lira City sells for about 10,000 Ugandan Shillings, but Tom aspires to process the fruit further to maximize profits. He also plans to visit China to acquire drying facilities for both the fruit and its outer cover, aiming to produce cattle feed. Beyond personal gains, the farm benefits the local community. It provides employment opportunities and access to water for home consumption. Tom’s initiative is not just a farm; it’s a model for regional agricultural development. He envisions technical guidance from universities and hopes for government support to refocus programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM) towards such projects. Bite… Tom’s dedication to jackfruit farming also includes a plan to provide market opportunities for other local growers. By identifying the best jackfruit varieties, his farm aims to become a regional hub for excellence in fruit farming. Timo Fresh Fruit Farm Enterprise stands as a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and community empowerment. Tom’s journey from an accountant to an agricultural pioneer highlights the potential of combining traditional practices with modern technology to create a sustainable future for farming in Uganda. –Ends Filed ... & Run on 10th Jan, 2025