Sustainable Groundnut and Soybean Value Chain Development in Kasese District

Uganda’s groundnut and soybean seed sectors face challenges, including limited high-quality foundation seed, inconsistent quality control, unreliable demand forecasting, and inadequate distribution systems. The National Semi-Arid Resources Research Institute (NaSARRI) oversees a breeding program to address these issues and improve seed quality.

SAFI has worked with NaSARRI to promote improved cultivation techniques for groundnuts, soybeans, millet, and sorghum among farmers in Kasese. The project aims to enhance the commercial value of these crops through targeted extension and support efforts.

Over the past four growing seasons, SAFI has established participatory variety selection plots, delivered field trainings for farmers, and endorsed recommended agronomic practices to enhance agricultural skills. NaSARRI provided seeds and offered technical guidance on crop management and best practices.

At SAFI, we strengthen groundnut and soybean value chains by supporting producers, improving processing, and facilitating connections with buyers. We also evaluate our online marketplace, which broadens access to value-added products through equitable markets. Through this project, farmers in Kasese have adopted sustainable farming methods, accessed new groundnut varieties such as NARONUT 1, Serenut 11T, and Serenut 8R, and received support to boost crop yields. A total of 627 farmers have benefited from project activities.