Prof. Naiga Basaza, the Founder and Managing Director of Gudie Leisure Farm, emphasized the necessity for youth to prepare themselves to capitalize on the socio-economic benefits offered by the piggery business, particularly the value-added pig by-products, at both regional and international levels.
Highlighting the growing population in Uganda, the East African Common Market, COMESA, and Africa, Prof. Basaza emphasized the market opportunities available for organized value chain actors who have enhanced their capacity to meet crucial market performance standards, thus enabling high returns that trickle down to local farming communities.
“This value chain is integral to our livelihoods as Ugandans, serving as a significant source of employment and income,” she emphasized.
Prof. Basaza made these remarks during a press conference announcing the upcoming Piggery Cottage Industry Symposium, scheduled to take place at Gudie Leisure Farm premises on May 6.
The symposium aims to educate potential and existing investors about the opportunities within the value chain, as well as emerging developments and their implications.
According to the 2021 National Livestock Census report, 2.2 million households across the country are involved in pig rearing, with a total population of approximately 7.1 million pigs during the same period.
“The primary objective of this event is to expose micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSEs) in the industry to existing and emerging business development opportunities, equip them with the necessary technical and business skills, and establish platforms for strong collaborations with stakeholders to support their growth and sustainability,” Prof. Basaza explained.
“We also aim to showcase the Youth Agripreneur Champions in Uganda, who are driving socio-economic transformation in their communities through piggery cottage industry initiatives,” she added.
Ms. Florence Nampeera, an entrepreneur and district agent for Gudie Leisure Farm, highlighted the symposium as an opportunity for young people to learn from practitioners about navigating opportunities and challenges in the business. She encouraged piggery farmers to attend the event.
“The symposium aims to enlighten young people about the potential profits they can gain from various aspects of the piggery value chain. It serves as a platform to connect with industry leaders, learn about technologies developed by key stakeholders like the National Agriculture Research Organization, explore existing market opportunities, and adopt best practices for success,” she emphasized.
Piggery has recently become an attractive value chain for young people in Uganda due to its ability to generate quick profits, making it an accessible option in agriculture.