Browsing by Author "Kigambo, M"

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    Effect of improved seed system on potato yields in Uganda
    (RUFORUM Working Document Series, 2018) Kigambo, M; Wasswa, P; Obala, Jimmy; Mugisha, J
    Potato seed quality is an important determinant of crop performance, final yield and quality. The quality of seed used by farmers depend on the existing seed system. In Uganda, since the formal sector has limited capacity to produce and deliver certified potato seed, the informal sector prevails providing over 93% of potato seed used by farmers. The informal sector is not regulated thus informal seed that is often used by farmers is usually of poor quality which has stagnated national yields at 7.5 t ha-1. This review looks at the general potato seed system in Uganda with an emphasis on potato seed quality while giving recommendations on how this problem can be alleviated. This is a narrative review organized under sub-topics to give the reader a comprehensive overview and easier tracking of the afore mentioned reviewed topic. In summary, this review revealed that although intervention have been used to improve quality and quantity of potato seed, a big gap still exists thus more interventions are needed both in the formal and informal sector. In addition, it revealed that if the quality of potato seed used by farmers can be improved either by making certified seed more available and affordable or improving the quality of seed obtained from the informal sector, it would be possible to increase potato yields in Uganda substantially.
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    Effect of potato-bean intercrop arrangement, plant spacing and fertiliser usage on plant growth and tuber yield in different environments
    (Makerere University Journal of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, 2022) Nakibuule, J; Obala, Jimmy; Kigambo, M; Kajunju, N.H.B; Mugisha, J
    In Uganda, potato (Solanum tuberosum. L) is an important cash and food crop but its productivity has stagnated at around 3.5 t ha-1, far below potential (20 t ha-1), mainly due to soil exhaustion resulting from land shortages, and poor agronomic practices. It is vital to enhance production and efficient use of land resources by embracing elements of the systems of crop intensification. The study aimed at generating knowledge on the best combinations of crop management practices to increase productivity and improve land use. A split-split plot randomised complete block experiment was established in the districts of Kabale (high altitude), Rukiga (mid altitude), and Mbarara (descriptor of elevation) for two consecutive seasons (2018B and 2019A). The study investigated the effect of intercropping potato and beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) (in ratios of 1P:1B, 1P:2B, 2P:2B vs. sole potato, and sole bean), at two plant spacing levels (75 cm × 30 cm and 60 cm × 50 cm), and fertiliser usage (NPK and No NPK) on the growth and yield of potato. Results indicated that performance was favourable at high altitude. Intercropping potato and beans at the studied plant densities increased the quantity and quality of potato yield. Whereas the intercrop arrangements of 1P:1B and 1P:2B out yielded sole potato in tuber yield in the favourable highland areas; 1P:1B was at per with sole potato in terms of marketable yield. Intercropping potato with beans in the 1P:2B arrangement increased potato yields by 1.2 t ha-1 and also contributed highly to efficient utilisation of land resources (LER = 2.54) compared to sole potato. Addition of NPK increased potato yield, more so at the 75 cm × 30 cm spacing.