September 11, 2024 – Tooro Kingdom has partnered with the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) to improve agricultural development in the region. The memorandum of understanding was signed at the Kingdom’s Parliament in Fort Portal City.
The partnership aims to leverage NARO’s technologies and innovations to address the high stunted growth rate in the region, NARO Director General Dr. Yona Baguma revealed.
“The partnership will particularly benefit from NARO’s extensive research on high-yielding, disease-resistant, and climate-resilient crop varieties, as well as improved livestock breeds, better pasture varieties, management, and disease control,” he said.
This collaboration will focus on delivering advanced agricultural technologies and tailored solutions to the people of Tooro.
Additionally, the initiative will align with the government’s broader vision for agricultural transformation, including modernisation, agro-industrialisation, climate-smart practices, and the promotion of high-value crops.
The partnership also aims to integrate agricultural activities into the Kingdom’s tourism economy, creating sustainable livelihoods for local communities.
NARO’s research and innovations in forestry, including the development of fast-growing tree varieties and value-added forest products, will also be leveraged to support reforestation and afforestation efforts.
Furthermore, NARO is developing new varieties of speciality teas to improve the income prospects for tea farmers in the region.
The collaboration will be implemented through the Rwebitaba Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute (RwebiZARDI) within the Kingdom of Tooro and will take advantage of funding opportunities from government programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and the GROW project for women’s empowerment.
