agriculture 30 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Jinja Model Farms to Boost PDM Projects with Practical Skills
Uganda Development Forum has launched model parish farms in Jinja to provide practical training for beneficiaries of government wealth creation programs like PDM, aiming to prevent fund misuse and enhance agricultural success. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/jinja-hosts-model-farms-to-support-pdm-projects-5513576
The Uganda Development Forum (UDF) has set up demonstration farms at the Jinja Agricultural Show Grounds with the goal of enhancing the effectiveness of government initiatives aimed at poverty reduction, such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga.
These model farms, inaugurated during the 2026 Uganda National Agricultural Show, are designed to serve as practical training hubs before being replicated across various parishes in the Jinja District. The initiative focuses on providing hands-on experience in farming techniques and business management.
UDF Executive Director Edward Katende highlighted that the “wealth creation village” showcases innovative technologies that support government programs. The model parish aims to foster a learning environment where farmers can share knowledge and best practices across different agricultural enterprises, including crop cultivation, livestock rearing, and value addition.
“Instead of classroom learning, farmers will learn directly from successful host farmers who are committed to mentoring others,” Mr. Katende explained. This approach directly addresses a key challenge within the PDM: the diversion of funds due to a lack of practical knowledge.
The program intends to equip beneficiaries with essential skills before they access funds, thereby promoting wiser investment and reducing the risk of financial mismanagement. The demonstration farm is structured into three main areas: crop production, livestock farming, and an integrated four-acre model combining both.
Training covers crucial aspects like farm planning, selecting profitable enterprises, adopting modern production methods, and efficient land utilization. Farmers who successfully complete the training will receive certificates of proficiency, which are expected to strengthen their applications for financial support from their PDM SACCOs.
The long-term vision is to establish similar training centers in every parish, providing ongoing support to farmers at all stages of their agricultural development. The 2026 Uganda National Agricultural Show is a collaborative effort between UDF and the Ministry of Agriculture, running from June 26 to July 5.