Valley University of Science and Technology in Bushenyi District Empowers Farmers on Climate Smart Dairy Cattle Production Technologies and Innovations
The Uganda Government identified milk as one of the commodities of focus for the accelerated development of the agricultural sector. Ugandan milk production is largely dominated by smallholder farmers who own over 90 percent of the national cattle population. Due to land scarcity, over 90% of smallholder dairy farmers practice “zero grazing production system”.
Despite registering significant levels of growth, Uganda’s dairy cattle industry continues to experience a myriad of challenges especially lack of knowledge and practical skills on improved feeds, animal breeding, disease control, proper waste disposal and others leading to low production and productivity. Empowering farmers with climate smart dairy cattle technologies and innovations using “hands-on approach” is a critical input for them for quick transfer of technology and a way to improve their productivity and thereby their socio-economic condition.
Valley University of Science and Technology, Bushenyi, Uganda
Valley University of Science and Technology (VUST) is a private university located in Bushenyi district in Western Region of Uganda. The University is wholly owned by Mukaira Foundation Limited to bridge the gap by supporting Government in promotion of sciences. In October 2015, the proprietors of the University received accreditation from the Uganda National Council for Higher Education, to start the institution. The University aims to provide science and technology courses applicable to the rural environment, in a rural setting, with a view to improve the living conditions of the rural communities in the areas that the university serves. Valley University has a student population of over 1800 students, offering programmes at different levels in the fields of Agriculture, Business and Management, Information Technology and Education. Valley University is in its final stages of Charter acquisition.
University Trains Dairy Farmers
On 25th May 2024, the Faculty of Science, Technology and Innovations of Valley University of Science and Technology hosted an insightful training session for dairy cattle farmers. The event, which drew 140 enthusiastic participants from Kyenjonjo, Rukungiri, Masaka, Sironko, Apac, Isingiro, Greater Bushenyi and other districts, aimed to enhance dairy cattle farming practices to improve milk yield and income while maintaining a clean environment.
The training commenced with an inspiring opening address by Dr. Enos Rwasheema, the Vice Chancellor of VUST, who emphasized the University’s commitment to supporting local farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. He further noted that man’s quest for knowledge should never stop. “If you stop learning, you die.”
The Dean Faculty of Science, Technology and Innovations, which was hosting the training, Smith Rumanzi, stressed the importance of dairy cattle farming saying the dairy industry is a vital part of Uganda’s agricultural sector and the dedicated farmers, are the backbone of this industry. He continued to remind farmers that the University recognized the vital role dairy farming played in the economic and nutritional well-being of our communities. He later highlighted the objectives of the training to give farmers direction during the session and concluded by thanking farmers for coming for training, before urging them to feel free to actively participate, ask questions, and connect with our experts.
A key highlight of the event was the presentation by Professor Jolly Kabirizi, an Academic staff in the Faculty of Science, Technology and Innovations of Valley University of Science and Technology, who shared her expertise on “Improved dairy cattle feeds and waste management technologies for increased yield and a healthy environment.” Professor Kabirizi is a local and international researcher, a farmer and dairy cattle nutritionist worked with the National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO) as a Senior scientist. She emphasized the importance of adopting innovative feed and effective waste management practices to enhance milk production and ensure a sustainable farming environment.
Some of the participants
She encouraged dairy cattle farmers to adopt improved technologies because: (a) dairy cattle farming is a rewarding business (A cow is the best tenant) that feeds people; (b) with improved management, a dairy cow will produce a calf per year; (c) a cow produces many products apart from milk and meat. Studies conducted by NARO shows that cow dung can be processed into liquid soap, sanitizer, hand wash, shampoo, biogas, fertilizer, pesticide and others. . She further noted that “A stressful life is silent killer. Cows are great friends that will always cheer you up and keep you inspired”.
Dr. Mutungi Derrick from the URUS Group, Mbarara district contributed significantly to the training with his presentation on “Dairy cattle management and genetic gain/breeds and breeding.” URUS empowers farmers through genetic tools for the creation of sustainable and productive cows and management information for the ultimate in cow care.
Mr. Byamukama Justus, representing the District Veterinary Officer, Bushenyi district addressed the critical issue of diseases affecting dairy cattle production. His session provided farmers with valuable insights into identifying, preventing, and managing major cattle diseases, thereby safeguarding herd health and productivity.
Mr. Deus Oyesigye, a representative of Kaffika Animal Feeds, (a Dutch company) highlighted the contribution of the company in providing specific feed solutions for layers, dairy cattle, broilers, pigs and fish and supporting farmers and feed millers to build a profitable business with healthy and productive animals
Mr. Kakuru David, a farmer noted that farmers are majorly challenged by fake animal drugs which are almost everywhere in local drug shops. Mr. Amos Rwabweera, a farmer and pasture seed producer from Kyenjojo district thanked the organizers and presenters for sharing knowledge which he believes is going to help the farmers who attended the training. He thanked Valley University for being so thoughtful and coming up with such an important training.
The training session provided a comprehensive learning platform for farmers, equipping them with the latest knowledge and techniques to enhance their dairy farming operations. The farmers expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to learn from leading experts and shared their optimism about implementing the new practices on their farms.
The session concluded with remarks from Mr. Atuhaire Robert, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Bushenyi who applauded the initiative and encouraged farmers to implement the knowledge gained for better productivity and environmental sustainability. Participants were awarded certificates of attendance.
Valley University of Science and Technology continues to play a pivotal role in advancing agricultural education and fostering innovation in the farming community. Through initiatives like this training session, VUST reaffirms its dedication to empowering farmers and contributing to the region’s agricultural development.