agriculture 23 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Ugandan farmers embrace digital tools for safer pesticide use
Farmers in Uganda are increasingly adopting digital platforms and mobile applications to improve pesticide application, leading to reduced crop losses and more sustainable farming practices. Initiatives by the Ministry of Agriculture and CABI are bridging the knowledge gap and promoting the use of safer agrochemicals. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/farmers-turn-to-digital-tools-for-safer-pesticide-application-5606818
Many farmers in Uganda rely on pesticides to protect their crops from pests and diseases. However, a significant challenge has been the lack of precise knowledge regarding the correct dosage and type of chemicals to use for specific crops. This often leads to overuse, ineffective pest control, and potential harm to both the environment and human health.
To address this critical issue, agricultural experts from the Ministry of Agriculture, in collaboration with organizations like the Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International (CABI), have launched a nationwide drive to promote responsible pesticide application. This initiative introduces farmers to digital advisory tools designed to provide accurate, science-based information.
Several digital tools have been rolled out, including the CABI BioProtection Portal, the Crop Sprayer App, and the PlantwisePlus Knowledge Bank. The BioProtection Portal, accessible via smartphones, helps farmers and advisors identify and source registered biological and biopesticide products. The Crop Sprayer App assists in calculating the exact pesticide quantities needed, promoting efficiency and reducing waste. Meanwhile, the Knowledge Bank provides extension officers and agro-dealers with visual guides for pest and disease diagnosis.
These digital tools have demonstrated tangible benefits. In Nakasongola District, targeted digital guidance helped reduce maize crop losses due to pests by an impressive 35 percent. Furthermore, field data from 2024-2025 indicated that optimized application through the Crop Sprayer App cut input costs for participating farmers by up to 30 percent.
To ensure widespread adoption, youth champions and trained agro-input dealers are actively assisting farmers in understanding and utilizing these technologies. This has not only improved farming outcomes but also created income-generating opportunities for the youth involved in providing advisory services.