NARO’s new technologies to boost agricultural value chain
WAKISO, March 22, 2025 – The National Agricultural Research Organisation [NARO] has unveiled groundbreaking technologies aimed at enhancing agricultural value chain in the country.
A key innovation is the handheld maize sheller, designed to make life easier for women farmers, particularly those involved in both small-scale and large-scale maize production.
In its efforts to improve productivity and household incomes, NARO has also developed a range of impactful agricultural technologies. These aim to reduce labour-intensive practices, enhance nutrition, and create greater economic opportunities.
Among the innovations is a machine that reduces physical labour on the farm while there those technologies that help in producing value-added products from coffee and cocoa, as well as livestock.
Prominent contributions to these advancements came from several institutes, including the National Livestock Resources Research Institute [NaLIRRI], National Agricultural Research Laboratories [NaRL], National Coffee Research Institute [NaCORI], National Crop Resources Research Institute [NaCRRI], and Bulindi Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute [Bulindi ZARDI].
The innovations unveiling of the innovations was led by Kenneth Katungisa, Chairperson of the NARO Governing Council, alongside the Directors of Research from various institutes and other key officials.
One of the highlights of NARO’s exhibition was the showcase of nutrient-enriched crops such as maize and sweet potatoes, which play a significant role in addressing malnutrition among women and children.
Additionally, the display featured value-added products such as coffee and cocoa, demonstrating how women farmers can transition from primary production to more profitable ventures in processing and marketing.
Another major attraction at NARO, Kawanda, was the demonstration of improved livestock management practices, including disease control innovations and affordable nutritional supplements. These innovations assist women involved in animal husbandry by enhancing productivity and increasing incomes.
NARO also offered knowledge and advisory services on crop selection, pest and disease management, and climate-smart farming techniques to visiting farmer groups.
Speaking to theCooperator News recently at Kawanda, Katungisa emphasised NARO’s commitment to gender-responsive agricultural research.
“Empowering women in agriculture is key to boosting household incomes, ensuring food security, and fostering rural development. The technologies we have developed are specifically designed to make farming more efficient and rewarding for women,” he said.
The Director of NaLIRRI, Prof. Samuel Majalija, also reaffirmed NARO’s dedication to driving agricultural research and innovation that supports women’s empowerment, ensuring they have access to the tools, knowledge, and resources needed to thrive in the sector.
https://thecooperator.news/naro-official-urges-farmers-in-lango-to-commercialise-cassava-growing/
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