We are at the forefront with Igara Mixed farmers Cooperative society in empowering farmers to enhance postharvest handling, food storage, value addition, and marketing. These efforts are part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at increasing food security, improving income, and boosting the overall livelihoods of farming communities. By prioritizing actions in the communities, we work in most especially in Bushenyi, that build farmers capacities in modern techniques, introducing affordable technologies and facilitating market linkages, we are driving a significant and sustainable changes in the agricultural sector.
One of the cornerstone initiatives as HPRW is to build farmers capacity in modern postharvest handling, value addition and proper storage techniques. In our needs assessment some of farmers like Mr. Silver in Rutoma noted that traditional postharvest handling practices often result in significant losses due to poor handling, lack of knowledge and inadequate facilities. HPRW has focused on addressing these challenges by providing training and resources that equip farmers with the skills they need to handle their produce more effectively. Through workshops and practical demonstrations that we organize, farmers learn about optimal harvesting times, proper sorting and grading techniques and effective packaging methods that preserve the quality and extend the shelf life of their produce.
In addition to improving postharvest handling, HPRW places a strong emphasis on value addition. By transforming raw agricultural products into higher-value items, farmers can increase their income and access new markets. HPRW is committed in providing training on various value addition processes, such as drying, milling and processing fruits and vegetables into jams, juices, and preserves. These value-added products not only have a longer shelf life but also fetch higher prices in the market, providing farmers with a more stable and lucrative source of income.
We have ensured that our trained farmer use proper storage techniques which ae critical to reducing postharvest losses and ensuring food security. Hprw has introduced to farmers to a range of affordable and effective storage solutions, including solar dryers, grain silos, and community-based storage facilities. Solar dryers, for example, allow farmers to dry their produce quickly and efficiently, reducing spoilage and maintaining nutritional quality. Grain silos and community storage facilities offer safe and secure options for storing large quantities of produce, protecting it from pests, moisture, and contamination. These storage solutions enable farmers to hold onto their produce until market conditions favorable, ensuring they can sell their goods at the best possible prices
Our priority is to facilite farmers with information on market demands, quality standards, and pricing, enabling them to produce what the market needs and sell at competitive prices. We are encouraging farmers in our communities to organize trade fairs and networking events where farmers can meet potential buyers and establish long-term business relationships. These linkages are crucial for creating a sustainable and profitable agricultural sector, where farmers have reliable access to markets and can continuously improve their production practices.
To further support farmers, hprw promotes the use of mobile applications for market information and agricultural extension services. These mobile apps provide farmers with real-time information on market prices, weather forecasts and best practices in farming and postharvest handling. With access to up-to-date information, farmers can make informed decisions about when to harvest, how to store their produce, and where to sell it. Agricultural extension services delivered through mobile apps also offer valuable advice and support, helping farmers to adopt new technologies and improve their overall productivity.
The impact of our initiatives can be seen in the improved livelihoods of farming communities across Bushenyi. By building farmers’ capacities in modern techniques, introducing affordable technologies, and facilitating market linkages, Hprw is helping farmers to reduce postharvest losses, increase their income, and achieve greater food security. This holistic approach not only benefits individual farmers but also contributes to the overall economic development of rural areas in Uganda.
In conclusion, the Health Promotion and Rights Watch Uganda’s comprehensive strategy to enhance postharvest handling, food storage, value addition and marketing is making a significant difference in the lives of many farmers in Bushenyi and by prioritizing capacity building, introducing affordable technologies and facilitating market linkages, we remain committed to empowering farmers to unlock the full potential of their agricultural produce, ensuring better economic outcomes and improved food security for communities across Uganda. Through these efforts, hprw is not only improving individual livelihoods but also contributing to the sustainable development of the agricultural sector in Uganda.