Improving crop protection practices in Uganda and Rwanda: building local capacity through training of trainers

Through the Fit For Market Plus (FFM+) programme, COLEAD works with small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the horticultural sector. This has recently been the case in Uganda and Rwanda as part of initiatives to improve agricultural practices.

In response to requests from these SMEs, COLEAD has recently developed targeted training courses to strengthen crop protection practices and promote the safe use of crop protection products.

Building local capacity through training of trainers

Recognising the importance of sustainable knowledge transfer, COLEAD has developed a Training of Trainers (ToT) programme to equip in-house trainers and extension workers in these SMEs. The programme is based on the innovative methodology developed by COLEAD, the “training workshop in the field”.

Many of the participating SMEs also expressed the need to improve the teaching skills of their supervisors so that they could train the producers they work with more effectively. COLEAD responded to these needs by including pedagogical modules in the training, focusing on adult learning techniques and their practical application.

Training highlights

The ToT workshop, held in November, brought together 17 in-house trainers from Uganda and Rwanda for five days of intensive training in Kampala. Participants gained hands-on experience of best practice in crop protection and safe pesticide use, enabling them to pass this knowledge on to farmers in their networks.

A collaborative effort

The success of this training course was due in particular to the expertise of the two trainers, Ms Cate NAKATUGGA from Uganda and Mr Wesley Cheruiyot from Kenya. Their commitment and positive feedback played a key role in the success of the workshop.

In addition, COLEAD representatives Marian RENKENS and Kelvin MAINA, who were present during the training, had the opportunity to present COLEAD’s wider initiatives and to interact directly with the participants. Their presence enriched the sessions and provided valuable feedback from the participants.

Impact and next steps

This ToT initiative illustrates COLEAD’s commitment to building local capacity and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in FFM+ ACP partner countries. By training trainers within SMEs, the FFM+ programme creates a multiplier effect that ensures the dissemination of knowledge and the use of safe and effective pest management practices in horticultural value chains.

COLEAD would like to thank all participants, trainers and collaborators who contributed to the success of this training course. Together we are moving towards safer and more sustainable horticultural practices.

This activity is supported by the Fit For Market Plus (FFM+) programme, implemented by COLEAD within the Framework of Development Cooperation between the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) and the European Union. This publication receives financial support from the European Union and the OACPS. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of COLEAD and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union or the OACPS.