Mukono, Luweero farmers trained on production of quality seeds

In collaboration with Korean experts, NARO and the Ministry of Agriculture have introduced farmers in Mukono and Luwero to modern seed production techniques.
The training sessions covered a variety of essential topics, including seed selection, proper storage methods, and the importance of using certified seeds to avoid the risks of seedborne diseases that can ruin entire crops.
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One key aspect of the training was the establishment of farmer-led seed production groups which encourage farmers to pool resources and knowledge, allowing them to collaborate on producing quality seeds.
Officials said the approach not only improves individual seed production skills but also strengthens market presence, empowering farmers to supply high-quality seeds to others in the region.
The training programs provide farmers with critical insights into crop genetics, seed treatment, and maintaining seed purity which enables them to produce higher-yielding, disease-resistant varieties, which translate into better harvests and more reliable incomes.
Moreover, the initiative has a ripple effect in local communities. As trained farmers start producing better-quality seeds, they often share their knowledge with neighboring farmers, thereby improving agricultural practices across the region. This collective effort contributes to enhanced food security and reduced dependency on external seed sources.
“ By producing high-quality seeds locally, farmers in Mukono and Luwero can tap into the growing demand for certified seeds in Uganda. This, in turn, creates economic opportunities not only for farmers but also for local businesses involved in seed distribution and processing,” officials said.
“Increased local seed production also reduces Uganda’s dependence on imported seeds, promoting agricultural self-sufficiency. This shift towards sustainable farming practices can transform the livelihoods of rural farmers, contributing to poverty reduction and supporting broader sustainable development goals.”
Dr. Henry Aaron Mulindwa, Director of the Mukono Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MUZARDI), highlighted the significant role of infrastructure provided through the VegeSeed Project. “MUZARDI operates two stations that will be engaged in this project. We are grateful to the Korean government for setting up greenhouses at MUZARDI and providing essential equipment like tractors for our farmers,” he remarked.
Prof. Yeoung Young-Rog, the VegeSeed Project Manager, expressed optimism about the project’s potential.
“The weather here is favorable compared to Korea, where we only harvest once a year. This collaboration aims to help farmers produce high-quality, Uganda-bred seeds that will improve their livelihoods,” he said.
Dr. Asio Mary Teddy, Assistant Commissioner of the National Seed Certification Service (NSCS), emphasized the importance of seed quality.
“We oversee all matters related to seeds, from registration to regulation and standards, to ensure farmers receive high-quality seeds. The greenhouses supported by the Korean government will be pivotal in this effort,” she noted.
The training programs for farmers in Mukono and Luwero Districts represent a crucial step in improving seed production across Uganda.
By empowering farmers with the skills and knowledge to produce high-quality seeds, these initiatives contribute to better crop yields, enhanced food security, and economic growth in rural communities.