Farmers have been urged to embrace modern agricultural technologies such as irrigation, soil testing, and improved farming practices to increase production and improve household incomes. The call was made during the ongoing National Agricultural and Trade Show in Jinja City, held under the theme “Agrileap to Higher Middle Income through Farm Innovations and Agro-Industrialization.”
Agricultural experts at the exhibition said that although Uganda has fertile soils and two rainfall seasons, reliance on natural weather patterns alone limits farmers’ productivity, especially amid changing climate conditions. Ephraim Musasizi, an agricultural specialist from Mubende District, said affordable irrigation systems can help farmers produce throughout the year instead of depending on rainfall.
He said irrigation helps maintain soil moisture and nutrient levels, resulting in better yields and increased earnings for farmers. Anna Tusubira, a horticulture specialist, said modern farming methods allow farmers to maximize production even on small pieces of land. She noted that with increasing population and food demand, farmers can use available spaces, including backyard gardens and sack farming, to grow vegetables for household consumption and commercial supply.
Zewulence Muganwa, a farmer from Jinja District, emphasized the importance of soil testing before planting crops. He said different soils support different crops, and understanding soil composition enables farmers to choose suitable crops and apply proper farming practices, reducing losses.
Meanwhile, Annet Babirye, the assistant show manager, said the exhibition has organized training sessions to equip farmers with knowledge on affordable technologies that can improve agricultural production. She encouraged farmers to embrace innovation, saying technology is key to transforming agriculture into a profitable enterprise.-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
