By Herbert Musoke
Uganda has officially started exporting Hass avocado to European markets. The first container worth $40,000 was Thursday, November 21, shipped to Spin.
During the flagging off of the container at Kwanda-Wakiso, Linda Auma, the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Agricultural Committee, urged Ugandans to plant as much Hass avocado as possible because the market is ever-increasing.
Hani Dahian, the CEO of Avotein Farms Ltd said that they signed an agreement with the Spanish company to supply them 30 containers before the year ends.
He, therefore, called upon Ugandans to invest in Hass avocado growing because there is a ready market in Europe.
Dr Samuel Mugasi, the National Agriculture Advisory Services (NAADS) Executive Director, assured Ugandans who wish to venture into Hass avocado growing that although NAADS was moved to the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), the cost-sharing program will continue.
“As it has been, the government will continue paying 70% for Hass avocado seedlings for farmers interested in growing the fruit,” he said.
LEAD PHOTO CAPTION: Linda Auma, the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Agricultural Committee (red dress) flagging off the container.