Research is paramount in regard to identifying and addressing challenges associated with the commercial production of oil palm in Uganda. (Passage originally stated: Oil palm is a novel commercial crop in Uganda and as such, research is paramount in regard to identifying and addressing challenges associated with its production in the country.)
Is oil palm production suitable in Kalangala?
Oil palm production in Kalangala exceeds 11,000 hectares and has been expanded to the districts of Buvuma and Mayuge. According to adaptability studies, oil palm production is suitable in Masaka, Kibaale, and Kagadi as well.
Where does Uganda get its oil from?
In Uganda, half of the oil-seed production meets the demand, while the other half is mainly from crude palm oil imports. Both the locally produced and imported crude palm oil are refined into vegetable oil or used in the manufacture of soaps and detergents.
Who owns the oil palm plantations in Kalangala?
In Kalangala, over 6500 hectares belong to Oil Palm Uganda Limited (OPUL) while over 5000 hectares belong to medium and small-scale farmers.
When did oil palm production begin?
Oil palm production began a few years after early basic agronomic research on adaptability and potential yields levels. At that time, other production constraints such as fertilizer requirements, pests, diseases, and physiological factors were not prioritized.
Why is weed management important in oil palm production?
Weed management is necessary in oil palm production as weeds depress the performance of oil palm trees by depriving them of resources and suffocating them, leading to fewer bunches formed per tree [46] [ ]. Common practices used in controlling weeds under oil palm production in Uganda include manual slashing, chemicals, and the use of cover crops.