Mentorship of Women Farmer Groups

UWONET is supporting women farmers in Lamwo and Nwoya districts through a mentorship program enhanced by the engagement of agricultural extension workers. These experts are guiding the farmers in selecting suitable enterprises for the March–June 2025 planting season, while also providing practical, hands-on training in agronomic practices throughout the production cycle.

This collaboration aims to build the capacity of women farmers by equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to increase yields, shift from subsistence to commercial agriculture, and adopt sustainable practices that address challenges like climate change and market volatility.

In Lamwo District’s Palong Sub-county, soybean was selected as the priority crop for the upcoming season. The extension worker recommended the MAKSOY3N variety, known for its resistance to pests and diseases, quick maturity, and ability to improve soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. Soybeans also offer diverse value addition opportunities such as milk, porridge, sauces, and fried snacks. They are low-maintenance, suppress weeds, and are easy to harvest—saving time and effort for farmers. Meanwhile, in Nwoya, one of the groups opted for hybrid maize (Bazooka) due to its fast growth, drought resistance, and strong market demand. The extension worker emphasized the importance of post-harvest handling as the first step in value addition. For instance, using tarpaulins while shelling keeps produce clean, while proper drying, sorting, and storage help maintain quality, reduce spoilage, and fetch better market prices.

These activities are part of a broader effort to establish a demonstration farm that will serve as a hands-on training hub for women. The farm will facilitate learning on improved agronomic techniques, post-harvest handling, and value addition. Ultimately, this initiative aims to boost food security, increase incomes for women at the group level, and empower them economically by strengthening their roles in agriculture.