PIC: Julius Mabuya from PAAT Soil Clinic showcased a hand soil scanner. (Credit: Christopher Bendana)

AGRIBUSINESS

Over 50 farmers from Mukono, Wakiso and Luwero districts have been trained in growing healthy vegetables.

The training that took place at Mathias Kayemba's farm in Kyetume B village, Wakiso district was part of the exhibition dubbed 'Healthy Seedling Exhibition' organised by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA).

Farmers were trained on proper seed management, including the planting of healthy seed grown in trays as they are able to keep the roots intact and fight off infection.

The farmers were also trained in bio-controls methods, such as the use of egg york and vegetable cooking oil to fight pests, such as aphids and mites that attack tomatoes.

The exhibitors included the National Crops Resources Research Institute, Namulonge which showcased how egg shells can increase the level of calcium in the tomato plant.

Julius Mabuya from PAAT Soil Clinic based in Kyengera showcased a hand soil scanner which gives a farmer the soil texture, PH mineral content and organic content in ten minutes.

Isaac Kiwalabye, a tomato farmer from Kijunde in Wakiso district, said such trainings are important as they close the gap between the scientist and farmer.

Danny Coyne, the project manager of Healthy Seedling at IITA, said healthy seeds are an important step in limiting the use of pesticides and mitigating the environmental destruction.