In a move to enhance smallholder farming productivity, 20 farmers from Nama Sub-county in Mukono District have received a package of essential farming equipment under the VegeSeed Project.
The VegeSeed initiative is supported by the government of Korea through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) in collaboration with the government of Uganda through the National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO).
The equipment, handed over during a ceremony held at the Nama Sub-county headquarters, included spades, wheelbarrows, watering cans, sprayers, pangas, and Taplins. These tools are aimed at improving efficiency in vegetable seed production (nakati, pumkins, chilli pepper, tomatoes and shallot onions) and supporting sustainable agriculture practices among small-scale farmers.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, the VegeSeed Project Leader, Mr. Ho Dongun, expressed gratitude for the continued partnership with NARO - MUZARDI, emphasizing the project’s mission to empower farmers with both knowledge and practical tools for improved agricultural outcomes and making seed much cheaper as the seed that we are using is currently imported.
“We believe that access to appropriate farming equipment is key to enhancing productivity and reducing labor constraints, especially for vegetable farmers. This intervention is part of our broader commitment to increasing household incomes and promoting food security in rural communities,” said Dongun.
He reaffirmed the project’s commitment to supporting agricultural development in Uganda through farmer empowerment and innovation.
Local leaders, community members, and representatives from NARO also attended the event, commending the initiative for directly addressing the needs of smallholder farmers who often face challenges in acquiring modern farming tools.
One of the beneficiaries, Ms. Margaret Nakayiza, a vegetable farmer in Nama, shared her appreciation, saying, “These tools will make a big difference on my farm. I can now irrigate more easily and prepare the land faster. We are grateful for the support.”
The VegeSeed Project aims to improve the livelihoods of vegetable farmers through capacity building and development of new vegetable seed varieties.