Uganda Trains 560 Farmers in Climate-Smart Agroecology

Farmers in eastern Uganda are learning how to feed their families through droughts and unpredictable weather, and the results are showing up in their gardens year-round.

The Eastern and Southern Africa Small-scale Farmers' Forum has trained more than 560 farmers across 37 Community Agroecology Schools, with women making up the majority. The program teaches climate-resilient farming methods in Kumi, Mayuge, Mbale, and Bugiri districts, where changing rainfall patterns have threatened food production.

Susan, chairperson of Bukiende Community Agroecology School in Mbale District, says her community now has fresh vegetables even during dry seasons. "We regularly water our gardens, and this has improved food availability in our homes even during dry seasons," she said.

The schools teach farmers to grow intercropped vegetables like tomatoes, cabbages, and eggplants alongside fruit trees including avocados and mangoes. Mulching techniques help keep soil moist when rain doesn't come, reducing dependence on unpredictable weather.

Eastern Uganda has long been one of the country's major food-producing regions thanks to fertile soil. However, soil degradation and climate change have pushed farmers toward expensive synthetic fertilizers that many can't afford.

The agroecology approach combines indigenous farming knowledge with environmental conservation practices. Farmers learn from each other, visiting demonstration gardens where neighbors showcase successful methods they can replicate at home.

In early May, the organization strengthened leadership structures within the schools, with women and youth taking on key positions. "Leaders and facilitators who had been working informally now have clearer mandates, and it is encouraging to see women and youth taking up leadership positions," said Edith Grace Nulwende, Chairperson of ESAFF Bugiri.

The Ripple Effect

The program's farmer-to-farmer learning model creates a multiplier effect across communities. When farmers see their neighbors successfully growing food through droughts, they're more likely to adopt the same practices.

The organization recently mapped existing agroecological initiatives across eastern Uganda to identify gaps and improve future planning. The findings will help coordinate efforts with local governments and agricultural extension workers.

Ronald Bagaga, Programmes Manager at ESAFF Uganda, says the organization continues advocating for government investment in ecological farming practices. The program runs through 2028 as part of a global initiative promoting farmer-led food systems in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

Limited funding currently restricts exchange visits between different agroecology schools, which would speed knowledge sharing across regions. Still, over 1,000 farmers are now involved in the program, building food security one garden at a time.