Changes are being made within Ugandan horticulture, including a 30% farmer contribution through the National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) contribution of 70%. This is a new cost sharing intervention for farmers dealing especially in high value crops starting with Hass avocados and macadamias. The new strategy is deemed a possible game changer to transform agro-business as confirmed by Samuel Mugasi, the Executive Director of the agency, during the NAADS breakfast media meeting and engagement last Friday in Kampala.
“We are now no longer giving out free seedlings; NAADS pay 70% and farmers pay 30%. We want that co-ownership,” Mugasi stated. With the new programs, farmers will pay 30% and the government will contribute the remaining 70%.
The new strategy is intended to enable and, or enhance access to relevant agricultural support services, including quality agricultural inputs, extension, research and technology, storage, processing and value addition, market information and market for produce, finance and insurance.
Source: theinvestigatornews.com