Farmers Encouraged to Embrace Research-Based Tech at Northern Uganda Show

Embracing Research-Driven Technologies for Agricultural Growth

Farmers in Northern Uganda are being encouraged to adopt research-based agricultural technologies as a means of boosting productivity and enhancing household incomes. This push comes from the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), which emphasizes that the use of proven technologies can help farmers reduce risks, lower production costs, and improve both output and quality.

Frank Mugabi, Head of Communications at NARO, highlighted the benefits of such an approach. “When farmers adopt research-driven technologies, they move from guesswork to precision, thereby producing more, losing less, and earning better from every acre they cultivate,” he said. His remarks were made during a media session at the Northern Uganda Agricultural Show, currently taking place at Kaunda Grounds in Gulu City.

The event, which began on March 26 and will continue until March 30, 2026, has brought together farmers, researchers, agribusiness players, and development partners. The goal is to advance agricultural transformation in the region by showcasing innovations and fostering collaboration.

NARO is a central participant in the exhibition, with its various institutes including the National Livestock Resources Research Institute (NaLIRRI), the National Coffee Resources Research Institute (NaCORI), and the Ngetta and Abi Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institutes. These institutions are presenting a range of innovations tailored to Northern Uganda’s farming systems.

At the NARO booth, visitors are engaging with technologies related to bee products, improved pasture systems, resilient seed systems, shea nut value addition, agro-processing, and coffee production suited to the region. These innovations aim to provide practical solutions that can be implemented by local farmers.

In addition to exhibitions, NARO scientists are conducting hands-on training sessions. These sessions are designed to equip farmers and agripreneurs with the skills needed to adopt and benefit from these innovations. The focus is on ensuring that research outputs translate into real impact at the farm level.

Shea Nut Value Addition and Coffee Production

One of the key highlights of the show is the emphasis on shea nut value addition. This reflects the economic significance of shea trees in Northern Uganda, where they are widely abundant. Researchers are demonstrating improved processing techniques to enhance product quality and market value, creating new income opportunities, particularly for women and youth.

Coffee is also a major focus, underscoring its growing role as a leading income earner for Ugandan farmers. Once primarily associated with Central and Western regions, coffee is now being promoted in Northern Uganda as a viable commercial enterprise. Through NaCORI, NARO is showcasing improved varieties and climate-suitable agronomic practices, while training farmers on crop establishment, pest and disease control, and post-harvest management.

Mugabi emphasized the need for farmers to actively engage with research institutions. “We call upon farmers across Northern Uganda to take full advantage of platforms like this to learn, adopt, and apply proven technologies. Research is a launchpad for agricultural transformation, but farmers have to embrace these innovations and turn them into productive enterprises that improve livelihoods,” he said.

He also highlighted the importance of value addition as a driver of higher incomes. NARO has developed a wide range of prototype value-added products from various agricultural commodities that farmers can replicate. Value addition not only increases earnings but also reduces post-harvest losses.

Protecting the Shea Tree

Using shea nut as an example, Mugabi pointed out its strong global demand due to its skincare properties. However, he warned that the tree is increasingly under threat from indiscriminate cutting. “Every time you cut down a shea nut tree, you cut down potential income,” he said, adding that research is ongoing at Ngetta ZARDI in Lira City to reduce the time it takes for shea trees to mature and begin yielding.

He described the shea tree as a valuable resource that must be protected. Farmers can access more information at NARO exhibition stalls during the show.

Mugabi also commended the organizers of the agricultural show for promoting research, innovation, and farmer engagement as key drivers of food security, climate resilience, and sustainable agricultural development in the region.