The second day of the Harvest Money Expo at Namboole Stadium was a game-changer for hundreds of farmers who were introduced to simple yet effective organic methods for combating pests on their farms.
The three-day expo, which has the theme Agriculture as a Business, Value Addition, and Cooperative, has been eye-opening for many in attendance.
One of the standout sessions focused on using natural, readily available ingredients to fight pests without relying on harmful chemicals.
Balam Twinamatsiko, Director of Transform Abafrica Limited, noted that red pepper is a fantastic natural solution that works wonders as an anti-feeder on crops.
“Garlic and tobacco, too, are potent repellents that interfere with the circulatory systems of pests, keeping them away from crops,” he added. The training also highlighted creative ways to enhance crop health.
“Roasted and crushed eggshells mixed with water can provide essential calcium for stunted plants.
“These methods are simple, but effective and can make a huge difference for farmers, especially small-scale ones. For many farmers, the shift towards organic methods is a much-needed alternative. Irene Komukyeya, a farmer from Mukono, said the training has been crucial in bringing new ideas to them, nodding toward a demonstration on making homemade pest repellents. I always thought organic methods were ineffective, but this training has opened my eyes to the potential of using what is available on my farm,” she said.
Twinamatsiko encouraged farmers to rethink their approach to pest control by avoiding chemicals with high residuals that harm soil quality and crop yields.
“Instead of purchasing expensive chemical pesticides, farmers can turn everyday farm residues into valuable products that benefit both the environment and their wallets,” he said. Despite the promising organic solutions, Twinamatsiko acknowledged a persistent challenge: “Many farmers still doubt the effectiveness of organic methods. But with the right knowledge, they can do better.”
The expo also addressed the importance of safety when using pesticides. “Around 70% of farmers neglect safety measures, which is a big concern,” the expert cautioned.
“Protective gear is crucial to safeguard your health and the environment.” As the training continued, farmers expressed their enthusiasm, promising to try these organic solutions on their farms.
“I believe they will make a real difference,” said Muhumuza Akankunda, another banana farmer from Mbarara eager to return home with newfound knowledge.
The Harvest Money Expo is sponsored by ABI, Pepsi, Engsol, Tunga Nutrition, and UDC, in partnership with New Vision and the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
LEAD PHOTO CAPTION: Balaam Tunamatsiko from Transform Abafrika Products Ltd giving organic farming tips to farmes. (Credit: Richard Ategeka)
