CropLife Uganda Collaborates with MAAIF & HORTIFRESH to Empower Fresh Produce Farmers in Uganda. Pesticide mismanagement remains a significant challenge within Uganda’s farming community. The prevailing issue is that many farmers struggle to adhere to the recommended instructions on pesticide labels, often due to difficulties in interpreting these instructions accurately. Furthermore, the presence of counterfeit and misleading labels exacerbates the problem, potentially resulting in the mishandling and misuse of pesticides. Among the concerning issues, some labels intentionally omit or forge critical information, such as the Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI).
In response to these pressing concerns, CropLife Uganda, a non-profit national association that unites manufacturers, importers, and key suppliers of Crop Protection Products, is dedicated to enhancing the capacity for the distribution and sale of pesticides that meet stringent quality standards. This commitment is driven by a vision for the well-being of both farmers and the environment, both in the present and for future generations. CropLife Uganda has initiated a groundbreaking collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF) and HORTIFRESH, a leading apex body representing fresh fruit and vegetable exporters.
This synergistic partnership aims to foster responsible stewardship practices among fresh produce farmers in Uganda, offering a sustainable solution to the pesticide management challenges faced by the industry. The core objective of this collaborative endeavor is to provide comprehensive training to 50 professional Trainers (T.O.Ts) and 500 farmers. The training program will cover critical aspects of responsible pesticide use, sound agronomic practices, and the imperative compliance with Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs). These efforts are specifically targeted at farmers residing in the districts of Masaka, Mubende, Wakiso, Luwero, and Mityana.
The joint efforts of CropLife Uganda, MAAIF, and HORTIFRESH signify a pivotal step forward in promoting sustainable and responsible pesticide usage within Uganda’s fresh produce sector. By empowering farmers with knowledge and best practices, this partnership not only ensures the health and productivity of Uganda’s agriculture but also safeguards the environment and secures a brighter future for all stakeholders involved
