How profitable is dragon fruit farming in Uganda?

Dragon fruit farming in Uganda has seen a significant increase in recent years due to the rising demand for the fruit in both local and international markets. However, the number of farmers that have embraced it is still low, primarily due to a lack of information. Currently, it's one of the most expensive fruits that can give a farmer a million within a short time.

Dragon fruit varieties

There are four main varieties that you can grow in Uganda.
  • Pink dragon fruit
  • Red dragon fruit
  • White dragon fruitful
  • Yellow dragon fruit

Cost analysis

Here is a cost analysis breakdown for dragon farming. 

  • Land preparation. This may take between Ugx. 500,000 to  Ugx.1,000,000 depending on the size of the farm and the work that is to be done. 
  • Seedlings or cuttings. Dragon fruit seedlings are not cheap and cost between Ugx. 20,000 and Ugx. 40,000 each.
  • Manure, fertilizers, and soil amendments. This may take roughly Ugx. 750,000 to Ugx. 2,000,000.
  • Irrigation. The cost may vary depending on the area and distance from the water source. This can average about Ugx. 1,000,000. However, it may be higher initially if you are using drip irrigation systems.
  • Pest and disease control. As with any crop, dragon fruits are prone to pests and diseases. The cost will depend on the severity of the infestation. On average, this will be around Ugx. 300,000. 
  • Labor. For an acre, this will range anywhere from Ugx. 300,000 to Sh Ugx. 500,000.

Total cost

Assuming you are growing on an acre of land, the total costs will be roughly Ugx. 6,000,000 to  Ugx. 10,000,000, although it will depend on the management practices and price of seedlings.

What is dragon fruit yield per acre in Uganda?

If you plant at a spacing of 2x2 meters, an acre will accommodate 1000 support posts. Since one post has two vines, you will have about 2,000 plants per acre. Each fruit could be 0.5 kg. From an acre, you can harvest around 20,000kg per year.

With a price of Ugx.7,000 per kilo, you can make a clean Ugx. 140,000,000. If your margin is roughly 40% other factors being constant, then your profits will be around Ugx. 56,000,000.

What’s more?

It is a fast-return perennial fruit that matures in 18 to 24 months. Once mature, the tree can bear fruit for 20 years or more.

Where can I buy dragon fruit seedlings in Uganda?

At Bwebajja Fruit Tree Nursery, we offer certified, high-quality dragon fruit seedlings at an affordable price. Besides, we offer agronomy support and guide you in each step to grow in the right way.

Start your journey into richness today! Contact us to place your order.


Visit us here at our farm, located at Jeza Mityana road (only on appointment).

Contact: 0708729144

WhatsApp: https://wa.me/2566708729144

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