MUKONO, March 5, 2026 — In an effort to enhance farmers’ productivity and resilience in the face of climate change, the Mukono Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute [MUZARDI] has conducted practical training on integrating vegetable and fish farming through aquaponics, a practice which combines aquaculture and hydroponics, the growing of plants in a nutrient solution.
The training that was organised recently at Jovic Continental Farm in Nyenje, Goma Subcounty, Mukono district, aimed at increasing farmers’ incomes and promoting the optimal use of available resources.
During the session, farmers were also introduced to innovative vegetable production techniques suitable for urban and peri-urban farmers.
Farmers shared diverse expectations from the training, including learning about fish species, feeding and breeding, vegetable seed processing, poultry and piggery feeding, the use of chemicals in vegetable production, and zero grazing systems.
Aquaculture specialist Andrew Izaara highlighted the growing demand for fish, noting that Uganda ranks third in Africa in fish production despite its abundant freshwater resources.
He stressed that fish farming is a highly profitable and nutritious enterprise, particularly when integrated with crop production, since nutrient-rich pond water can significantly enhance vegetable yields.
Farmers were also provided with practical guidance on pond construction, feed management, sourcing quality fingerlings, and avoiding chemical contamination in integrated farming systems.
Other sessions focused on poultry farming, where participants were guided on breed selection, brooding, feeding and market linkages, as well as vegetable production and seed processing.
Godfrey Sseruwu, a researcher at MUZARDI, underscored the importance of using quality seed, proper spacing, the application of manure, and correct harvesting and processing techniques to ensure high yields and seed viability.
On behalf of the participants, Esther Namukose, a farmer from Nyenje, thanked the scientists for reaching out to the community to promote farming practices that can improve farmers’ incomes and livelihoods.
https://thecooperator.news/regional-workshop-rallies-support-for-sustainable-aquaculture-in-africa/
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