The National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) Bulindi recently showcased its cutting-edge innovations at the City Farm Tour and Expo. Held on May 16, 2026, at Nyamasoga Village in Hoima District, the event was themed: From Demonstration to Transformation: Strengthening Ugandan livestock genetics and production systems through integrated innovation.
The expo served as a vibrant hub uniting farmers, researchers, private sector actors, extension officers, and agricultural stakeholders to share knowledge and promote modern farming practices. Other prominent institutions in attendance included Makerere University and the National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC&DB), establishing a direct platform for local farmers to interact with experts and adopt practical approaches to improving livestock production.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Byarugaba Hanington, the general manager of City Farm, emphasized their commitment to empowering local goat farmers. He noted that many of the challenges experienced on their own farm mirror those faced by farmers across the country.
Dr. Byarugaba explained that the expo was specifically organized to bridge this gap, creating an environment where farmers could network, learn from one another, and gain vital exposure to modern goat farming technologies. Pointing to countries like the Netherlands, which have achieved remarkable agricultural growth through innovation, Dr. Byarugaba urged Ugandan farmers to shift their mind-sets. He encouraged them to view agriculture as a highly profitable business venture rather than a fall-back activity for the uneducated.
Representing NARO Bulindi, Dr. Pauline Birungi, the Outreach Officer at NARO Bulindi, reiterated that the expo offered a perfect opportunity to promote and disseminate the improved NARO technologies, innovations and practices directly to the community.
During the expo, the institute exhibited and trained farmers on diverse and cost-effective feed resources for goats. This specialised training focused on the sustainable use of natural pastures and cultivated fodder species such as Brachiaria, Calliandra, and Napier grass.
It also covered pasture conservation into hay and silage, as well as the utilisation of crop residues, concentrates, and industrial by-products like sugarcane tops to improve goat nutrition. Dr. Williams Guma, an animal scientist at the institute explained that NARO Bulindi heavily prioritizes goat nutrition because feed alone accounts for over 70% of the total production cost in a goat enterprise.
When farmers successfully eliminate malnutrition in their herds, they can easily meet the high-quality standards demanded by commercial buyers.
Dr. Guma said
Inspired by the event, the expo attendees pledged to put the knowledge acquired into practice. Ms. Juliet Akugizibwe, a livestock farmer from Buliisa District, shared her excitement: “I’ve seen their pastures thriving very well. Now, I plan to establish my own and plant the different varieties they showed us, including Napier, Brachiaria, and Calliandra.”
Speaking on behalf of NAGRC&DB, Dr. Jackson Mubiru, said the theme of the event is both timely and important because Uganda’s livestock sector is currently at a critical transition point. He underscored the vital role that collaborative, research-driven initiatives play in successfully navigating this industry shift.