Masindi farmers learn new innovations at Masindi Agri- business trade show
Masindi
By Kabageny marion
Farmers in Masindi district have been trained on how to use new farm equipment, agro-inputs and other technologies during an Agri business expo organised by the Eastern Africa Grain Council (EAGC), in partnership with Masindi District, TradeMark Africa (TMA) through its USAID-funded Economic Recovery and Reform Activity (USAID-ERRA) program, the World Food Programme (WFP) Uganda, and Danida Green Business Partnerships (DGBP).
Advanced agricultural technologies were showcased to empower farmers to achieve greater productivity and sustainability.
Irrigation systems were demonstrated, offering solutions to optimize water usage and ensure crops receive adequate moisture, even during dry spells.
Mechanization was also a key focus, with various machinery on display designed to reduce labor-intensive tasks, improve efficiency, and increase yield. Improved seed varieties were showcased, promising higher resistance to pests and diseases and better adaptability to changing climate conditions. Advancements in animal nutrition were presented, emphasizing the importance of balanced diets to enhance livestock health and productivity.
Farmers who attended the two day trade show at Kihonda demonstration farm in Labongo Sub county Masindi district were excited about the new innovations which are coming up to improve agriculture production.
Monday Kahwa from Agrovet farmers limited said this is an opportunity for them the share with the agro-inputs dealers in Kampala.
“Such trade shows normally take place in Kampala and most of them are Kampala based. It’s good that we are able to interact with the original distributors. We have also learnt that there are many new innovations which are coming up. This trade show is also helping us give the distributors the required feed back,” he explained.
Abel Busiku, the technician under the agronomy research at Kinyara sugar limited who was show casing fertilizers and other agro-inputs noted that they’re able to market their products through the trade show.
They use this opportunity to bring products nearer to our farmers. We are also getting a chance of sensitising them about their products,
James Balikurungi, the LCIII chairperson Labongo Sub county said the the expo is helping farmers learn the best agronomic practices.
He called upon different farmers in the region to always embrace this expo whenever it’s organised because this an opportunity for us to learn new innovations in agriculture,
The 12th annual agribusiness expo hosted at Masindi Demonstration Centre was held under the theme: Promoting sustainable food systems and climate smart agriculture for inclusive trade and wealth creation.
This year’s expo comes at an opportune time when farmers in Masindi are gearing up for the next harvesting season in July, making it a crucial period for learning and implementing post-harvest handling and management.
Thirty companies took up exhibition stands to create awareness, train, and sell climate-smart technologies and innovations to over 3,000 farmers.
The expo featured crop and livestock demonstration units, an exhibition arena, a machinery display, and farmers’ training sessions.
According to Paul Ocuhuna the country manager EAGC Uganda, this broad participation demonstrates Uganda’s growing interest and commitment to sustainable agriculture.
“Adopting climate-smart technologies and sustainable agricultural practices is not just a necessity but a catalyst for economic growth and food security in our region. Looking ahead, EAGC and its partners remain committed to supporting farmers and stakeholders in the agricultural value chain to embrace innovations that promote sustainability and economic growth.
Balaam Barugahara, who also attended the expo challenged the people of Bunyoro to make of use of the demonstration farm if they are to boost their productivity.
“Ensure that you always embrace this expo because there is a lot to explore. Masindi district should also support the growth of this demonstration centre because I am seeing a lot being done here.
He also emphasized the issue of quality if Ugandan farm
ers are to meet the international market.
