Staff Reporter
The Parish Priest of Nyagisozi in Mutolere Deanery, Kabale Diocese, Rev. Fr. Leopold Mubangizi, has encouraged Christians in Kisoro District to consider planting Hass avocados to improve their household income.
Fr. Mubangizi’s appeal comes after a request to Minister Sarah Mateeke Nyirabashitsi to include Nyagisozi Parish in the distribution of Hass avocado seedlings, which are currently being donated to residents in Kinanira Parish, Busanza Sub County.
Fr. Mubangizi emphasized that cultivating Hass avocados could significantly boost income and help alleviate poverty. However, Minister Mateeke cautioned against focusing exclusively on avocados due to their longer maturation period, which might affect food availability. She advised residents to diversify into other income-generating activities alongside avocado farming.
Hass avocados typically take about two years to mature, and under proper management, a single mature tree can yield more than 3,000 fruits.
With recommended spacing, an acre can accommodate up to 166 trees, potentially yielding over 450,000 fruits. Currently, the market price for one kilogram of Hass avocados stands at 7,200 UGX.
