agriculture 14 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Budaka Agricultural Expo Highlights Dangers of Fake Farm Inputs
Farmers attending an agricultural expo in Budaka were cautioned about counterfeit inputs and encouraged to adopt climate-smart farming techniques to boost productivity and combat food insecurity. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/farmers-warned-over-fake-inputs-at-budaka-agricultural-expo-5496754
Farmers in Budaka District are being alerted to the significant risks posed by counterfeit agricultural inputs, a problem that has led to substantial losses. The warning came during a recent agricultural expo held at Budaka Saza Grounds, which brought together farmers from Budaka, Pallisa, and Butebo districts. The event showcased innovations aimed at enhancing farming practices.
Organized by the district production department under the theme “Modern farming is a key driver to socio-economic empowerment,” the expo aimed to equip smallholder farmers with practical skills and reliable information. District Production Officer, Mr. Asuman Kawanga, stated that a major hurdle for farmers is the limited access to certified suppliers and the prevalence of fake seeds and pesticides. He emphasized that the expo would guide farmers toward reputable companies and provide accurate information, crucial for improving productivity and addressing poverty and food insecurity.
Beyond input quality, farmers were urged to transition from subsistence to commercial agriculture. Mr. Kawanga also highlighted concerns over land fragmentation due to population growth, noting that many households now farm on less than an acre, which threatens future food security. Extension officers demonstrated climate-smart techniques, such as drip irrigation and soil fertility management. Farmer Moses Mukama expressed optimism about learning drip irrigation, a method he believes can enable vegetable cultivation even in dry seasons.
The expo also served as a platform for animal health services, with veterinary officials providing vaccinations and castrations. Local leaders praised the initiative, seeing it as a boost for agricultural development and aligning with government programs. Farmers departed with seedlings, information, and supplier contacts, many viewing the expo as a pivotal moment for their agricultural endeavors.