Contrary to the Uganda National Farmer’s Federation (UNFFE), the Ministry of Education and Sports is organising the third national agricultural education show in Bukalasa Agricultural grounds, in Wobulenzi, Luwero district. But the (UNFFE) wants and is going to organise the show in the usual Jinja Agricultural show grounds at the Source of the Nile.
Clashes have, therefore, emerged as the important bodies are fight for who is to organise the education agriculture show for learners. UNFFE, an umbrella that brings together farmers across the country, is the renowned organisation that has been responsible and organiser of the national agricultural show since the 1970s.
According to MAAIF, the MOES is organising the one-show in Bukalasa Agricultural College and shall kick off June 24 to 29, 2024. Similarly, UNFFE is organising it on the same date.
According to UNFFE, the show will be presided over by the minister for education and sports and also first lady, Janet Kataha Museveni while to MAAIF, president Yoweri Museveni and his Janet Museveni will officially open the event. This is according to their letters addressed to various stakeholders, calling them for participation.
“The 3rd NEAS is scheduled for 24th to 29th June at the Source of the Nile National Agricultural Show Grounds, Jinja under the them, “Young Innovations Transforming for National Prosperity,” reads part of UNFFE letter dated May 21, 2024 and signed by Mr Kenneth Katungisa for Chief Executive Officer.
“The Ministry of Education and Sports is organising the 3rd National Agricultural Education Exhibition 2024 scheduled for 24th to 29th June, 2024 and has requested the MAAIF agencies and partners for participation,” reads part of MAAIF letter signed Maj Gen David Kasura-Kyomukama, permanent secretary.
It [letter] stated that, “This year’s theme, “Seeds of Change: Empowering the Young for climate resilience, food and income security and Agri-intrepreneurship” reflects our commitment to showcasing and promoting innovative practices in Agricultural sector.”
The intergonostic, however, bodies have similar objectives. The show notably provides opportunities for networking, learning, and collaboration among stakeholders.
Nelson Tukundane, the public relations officer of UNFFE, however, told Busoga Today that they don’t have any knowledge about conducting the education show to Bukalasa. He said their show will be organized in Jinja.
“Our show is named the National Agriculture Education Show. Not a Fair or Exhibition,” he clarified, comparing UNFFE’s initiative from others.
It is worth noting that last week, a section of farmers in Jinja show ground carried out peaceful demonstrations against the moves of transferring the education show to Luwero. This remains a developing story, awaiting more resolutions about the organisation of the show.
