Heifer International Awards UGX 100 Million to Young Agricultural Innovators

Heifer International has recognized exceptional young innovators in agriculture and technology through the AYUTE Africa Season 3 challenge. This initiative focuses on nurturing young talent to tackle significant challenges faced by smallholder farmers across the continent. William Matovu, Country Director at Heifer International-Uganda, emphasized the organization’s commitment to harnessing the innovative potential of young Africans. He remarked on the vast agricultural resources available in Africa, noting that while the continent possesses around 60 percent of the world’s uncultivated arable land, it spends over one billion US dollars on food imports annually.

At the gala event celebrating AYUTE Africa Season 3, over UGX 100 million was awarded to the top ten innovators who presented outstanding technologies aimed at assisting local farmers. Matovu pointed out that agriculture in Africa has immense potential that remains largely untapped. He cited statistics showing that the region imports about 150 million USD worth of vegetable oil while many youths seek jobs abroad. Heifer International seeks to reverse this trend through initiatives like AYUTE Africa, which promotes local solutions to agricultural issues.

Since its launch in 2021, the AYUTE Africa challenge has identified more than 500 innovations, many of which have started entering the market. Matovu expressed optimism for the future of technology in agriculture, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices. This year’s grand prize of UGX 50 million was awarded to Assumpta Nakalema, a young innovator from AgroVision Uganda, for her solar-powered egg incubator. Her innovation allows smallholder farmers to hatch between 100 and 300 eggs at once, significantly enhancing productivity and profit margins. Nakalema stated that the funding would enable her to scale the incubator from a prototype to an affordable marketable product.

The incubator features advanced technology that regulates temperature and humidity essential for egg development. It includes a built-in fan for even heat distribution and an AI-powered remote monitoring system that sends real-time data to a cloud server for analysis. Additionally, a door monitoring system triggers an alarm if the door is accidentally opened, ensuring the incubation process remains uninterrupted.

Angel Uwera, the first runner-up, received UGX 25 million for her Mak Agrometer innovation. This tool allows farmers to analyze nutrient concentration in their soil, enabling better planting and fertilization strategies. Uwera explained that the device, equipped with an NPK sensor, allows farmers to collect soil samples and obtain real-time data on soil health, ultimately enhancing crop yields and food security.

Other notable innovators recognized during the awards ceremony included Olivia Nakiwanuka, the second runner-up for her Axis Solar innovation, and Stellah Nakirijja, who developed a solar-powered tick detector. Patricia Ninsiima was also acknowledged for her contributions to agricultural technology.

Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza, representing Makerere University’s Vice Chancellor, commended Heifer International for providing a platform for young innovators to realize their ideas. He pledged the university’s continued support for collaborative research and innovation. Prof. Buyinza remarked that past research efforts have often been left unexploited and that this initiative would lead to significant advancements.

Ronald Ssegawa Jjagenda, Undersecretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, represented the State Minister for Animal Industry, Hon. Bright Rwamirama Kanyontore, as the Chief Guest at the event. He underscored the importance of agricultural technology in addressing the sector’s pressing challenges. Jjagenda reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting youth through initiatives such as the Parish Development Model and Emyooga, which aim to transform young people’s livelihoods through innovation.

In closing, Jjagenda highlighted the need for a paradigm shift from traditional agricultural practices toward innovative solutions that can attract more youth to the sector. He emphasized the necessity of engaging youth with modern tools, including smartphones, to foster success in agriculture.