On 23rd and 24th August 2025 Mukono Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MUZARDI) successfully hosted the 31st Seeds of Gold Farm Clinic in Central Uganda at Ntawo, Mukono District. The Seeds of Gold Farm Clinics bring together researchers, farmers, and the private sector and therefore help bridge the gap between science and practice.
The two-day event attracted over 1,200 participants among them farmers, processors, researchers, academia, input dealers, and private sector players. Organized under the theme “Climate-Smart Farming,” the clinic focused on key enterprises like coffee, banana, maize, fish, local chicken, and piggery. The event was organized by Nation Media Group, in partnership with the National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO), Bank of Uganda, Pride Bank, and LIONPRO.
Scientists from NARO and partner institutions shared both practical and theoretical knowledge on climate-smart agronomic practices. Farmers and participants had the opportunity to interact directly with subject-matter experts, gaining hands-on experiences alongside classroom-style sessions. Input dealers and exhibitors showcased a wide range of innovations, including: improved seed varieties and fertilizers, animal feed concentrates and agro-chemicals, post-harvest handling technologies such as maize shellers and modern machinery including tractors
Dr. Aaron Henry Mulindwa, Director of Research – MUZARDI encouraged farmers to fully utilize the Farm Clinic to learn, network, and adopt new technologies for higher yields. He expressed gratitude to Nation Media, JEKA, and Holland Greentech for supporting MUZARDI in organizing a successful event and urged participants to continue visiting the institute for more agricultural support.
Dr. Sadik Kassim, Deputy Director General – Agricultural Technology Promotion, NARO applauded the massive turn-up of farmers. He emphasized that access to agricultural knowledge is key to improving productivity. He shared ten key tips for profitable farming, including: effective soil and water management, good crop and animal husbandry, ensuring timeliness in carrying out farming practices and diversification of enterprises among others. He also encouraged farmers to access government funding opportunities such as the youth empowerment and Emyooga funds, highlighting the need for responsible investment in agriculture.
David Jonathan Sentongo, Senior Activation & Promotion Officer – Nation Media Group commended the farmers for attending the farm clinic and praised NARO for sharing cutting-edge knowledge. He emphasized Nation Media’s commitment to strengthening partnerships that bring agricultural technologies closer to grassroots farmers across Uganda.
Dr. Barbara Zawedde, Principal Technology Promotion Officer – NARO highlighted that Farm Clinics are an essential avenue for disseminating research innovations, including climate-resilient technologies for enterprises such as poultry, which are crucial in adapting to climate change.