Bukomansimbi constructing lab to fight fake agricultural products

In a bid to tackle the proliferation of fake agricultural equipment and products in Bukomansimbi District, local authorities have embarked on the construction of an agricultural laboratory.

Spearheaded by the district vice chairperson Mubarak Ssebuufu Junior, the initiative aims to ensure the quality and authenticity of agricultural inputs circulating in the market.

Bukomansimbi district local government has commenced the ambitious endeavour of erecting an agricultural laboratory.

This facility will serve as a crucial resource for the agricultural department, enabling comprehensive testing of various products, including pesticides, fertilisers, seeds, and other agricultural outputs.

By implementing stringent quality control measures, the district hopes to curb the prevalence of counterfeit and substandard goods within the agricultural sector.

According to Vice Chairman Mubarak Ssebuufu Junior, the construction of the laboratory will be carried out in phases.

Currently, efforts are focused on the installation process, with plans underway to secure additional funding to expedite the completion of the facility.

RecogniSing the urgency of the matter, Ssebuufu emphasiSes the importance of swift action to safeguard the interests of local farmers and consumers alike.

Addressing media at the district headquarters, Ssebuufu highlighted the detrimental impact of counterfeit agricultural products on the farming community.

Many farmers have fallen victim to unscrupulous vendors who peddle fake or inferior goods, resulting in financial losses and compromised yields.

with the establishment of the agricultural laboratory, authorities will have the capability to conduct rigorous testing of samples obtained from agricultural shops, thereby identifying and eliminating fraudulent practices.

“Our district’s economic activity is farming but all year farmers here in Bukomansimbi are crying for fake agricultural products yet they get them at a high price so we know that this will help our farmers at least they get those products at the cheapest price.," he said.

As both a public official and a farmer himself, Ssebuufu is deeply committed to the success of this endeavour. He pledged to leverage his position to mobilize resources and rally support from the local community to ensure the timely completion of the laboratory.

"We received Shs90 million from the Ministry of Agriculture and I will ensure that we get another money to make a modern laboratory. He said.

By fostering collaboration between government agencies, farmers, and other stakeholders, Bukomansimbi aims to fortify its agricultural sector and uphold standards of integrity and excellence.

Renowned for its rich agricultural heritage, Bukomansimbi occupies a pivotal role in the agrarian landscape of Central Uganda.

From the cultivation of staple crops such as coffee, and vanilla and to the production of seasonal varieties like maize and vegetables, the district boasts a diverse and vibrant agricultural sector.

With the introduction of the agricultural laboratory, Bukomansimbi endeavors to further elevate its status as a leading hub for agricultural innovation and sustainability.

In his capacity as the councilor representing Butenga Town Council and serving as the secretary on the executive for works and triples as the vice chairperson for Bukomansimb, Ssebuufu exemplifies the spirit of proactive leadership and community engagement.

As Bukomansimbi embarks on this pivotal initiative, the construction of the agricultural laboratory stands as a testament to the commitment of its leaders and citizens to uphold the integrity of the agricultural sector.

With steadfast determination and collective effort, the district endeavours to eradicate the scourge of fake agricultural products and pave the way for a future of prosperity and sustainability in farming communities across central Uganda.