MUGABE R
Farmers in Rukungiri District have been urged to avoid extortion and poor advisory services circulating on social media and to rely on professional guidance for improved apple production.
The call was made on Thursday by Dr. Rolland Agaba, Head of Promotion, Technology, and Outreach at the National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO) Kacwekano, Kabale, during a one-day workshop for apple farmers held at the home of Apurinari Bakeihahoki in Nyakabungo Cell, Bugyera Parish, Buyanja Sub County.
During the event, farmers received a range of agricultural inputs including pesticides, fertilizers, spraying machines, and pruning cutters. NARO also inaugurated an apple demonstration orchard at the host farmer’s homestead to showcase best practices for increased productivity.
Dr. Agaba highlighted the growing trend of non-professionals offering poor advice and overcharging farmers on social media. He urged farmers to depend on official service providers and extension workers for reliable guidance to ensure successful projects.
The host farmer, Apurinari Bakeihahoki, praised apple farming for its potential to create steady income and called on the government to invest in training and recruiting more apple experts to sustain the industry.
Pastor Stella Karibwende, an apple farmer from Buyanja Town Council, appealed for government support in establishing apple processing factories to add value to produce and improve farmers’ incomes.
Meanwhile, Lion Prosper Tagobya, Town Clerk of Nyendo Mukungwe Division, Masaka City, and an apple farmer in Bugangari Sub County, encouraged fellow farmers to cultivate care and passion to achieve satisfactory yields.
The workshop also featured remarks from Allan Agaba, an extension worker for Rwerere Town Council, who encouraged farmers to actively engage with extension services, which offer free and expert advice for targeted production goals.
The initiative reaffirms NARO’s commitment under the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Fisheries to provide practical support and advisory services to strengthen Uganda’s apple farming sector.
