Among the many benefits that the Harvest Money Expo offers to farmers, one of the most significant is growth.
Last year (eighth edition), Urban Greens, an agricultural innovation organisation that also practices sustainable farming, highlighted the science of aquaponics.
At the time, the concept was just on paper. Aquaponics is a symbiotic system in which fish provide nutrients to plants, while the plants, in turn, help purify the water contaminated by fish waste.
In the ninth edition of the expo, the organisers introduced a fully operational aquaponics system designed to bring the concept to life. Abbey Jjuuko, a technical officer, explained: “Initially, we only had the concept on paper, but now we have a working system that demonstrates how fish and plants can coexist harmoniously in an amazing ecosystem.”
The system functions by converting ammonia from fish waste into nitrates through a biofilter.
The plants then absorb these nitrates, effectively cleaning the water. In this setup, for every two fish, four plants are supported, creating a continuous and sustainable cycle.
However, Jjuuko cautioned farmers to be mindful when harvesting fish to avoid overharvesting. The entire system is automated and operates with a simple plug-and-play mechanism.
“Before feeding the fish, you need to switch off the system so that they can recognise the food,” Jjuuko advised.
Additionally, the company remotely monitors the system, which runs on solar power.
This innovation spares farmers the hassle of manually switching systems on and off or frequently changing water, as is required in traditional fish farming. The system is ideal for individuals looking to maximise small spaces, as well as schools.
Thanks to the Harvest Money Expo, the company has made significant sales and introduced many people to the aquaponics system.
Jjuuko is hoping to make more sales but also grow networks.
The Harvest Money Expo took place at the Mandela National Stadium, in partnership with Bella Wine, Engsol, Tunga Nutrition, aBi, UDC, Pepsi Uganda, and the Embassy of the Netherlands. The event was held under the theme “Value Addition and Cooperatives.”
LEAD PHOTO CAPTION: Among the many benefits that the Harvest Money Expo offers to farmers, one of the most significant is growth. (Credit: Herbert Musoke)
