JINJA, – Beyond pest traps, the CABI tent at the 32nd National Agricultural Show became a one-stop hub for practical solutions, with farmers and youth getting hands-on training in biological control, digital advice, and post-harvest value addition.
Biological control for papaya mealybug
CABI showcased the use of parasitoids to manage the papaya mealybug, a pest that has reduced yields in districts such as Kayunga and Luwero. Officials explained that the parasitoids attack the mealybug at different life stages, reducing pest numbers without heavy chemical spraying.
“The biological control agent has helped farmers produce cleaner fruit and increase yields. The approach is being expanded to more districts under the EU SPS project,” Dr Nankinga said.
Plant Doctors, Plantwise and Youth Engagement
CABI, in partnership with MAAIF, was educating young people about CABI’s pest information resources. Youth visitors were taught how to identify pests, use safe chemicals, and access information.
Farmers also met ‘Plant Doctors’ under CABI’s Plantwise program, with Hajjati Sharifa Zuharire among the agronomists at work diagnosing crop problems on the spot and prescribing safe, affordable solutions.
CABI was also demonstrating digital information tools that farmers can access via phone. The tools give real-time advice on pests, diseases, weather, and safe pesticide use, helping farmers cut losses and avoid residue violations for export.
Value addition: Pineapple wine and Rubanga coffee
The tent drew crowds with its value-addition demos. Farmers were shown how to process pineapple into wine and how to add value to Rubanga coffee to fetch higher prices.
Farmers accessed knowledge and advice not to sell raw, but with simple processing, pineapple and coffee can open new markets and increase household income.
EU SPS backing
Dr Caroline Nankinga, the EU SPS project manager, said the activities are part of the €8 million EU project to build farmer capacity, reduce crop losses, and link Ugandan produce to safer and more profitable markets.
The 32nd National Agricultural Show runs through the week in Jinja.
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