Following the establishment of Humidtropics’ Innovation Platforms (IPs) in Uganda in 2013, a number of activities that target livelihoods improvement have been implemented. While IPs provide spaces for different actors to learn together, and research provides the necessary evidence to make sound investment decisions, so far, the bulk of the agronomic evidence produced by Humidtropics is being used by smallholders at the farm level. Over the last two years, Dr. Fred Mukulu, Chairperson of the Mukono-Wakiso IP, who also acts as District Production and Marketing Officer, realized the … [Read more...]
Improving Potato-Based Production Systems in Rwanda
Production of Irish potato is on the rise in the highlands of Rwanda and is considered a priority crop in the North and West regions of the country. Potato average yield in Rwanda is relatively low even though Rwanda is among top 5 producing countries in Africa. But there is high potential to close the gaps if improved pre and post harvest practices are introduced. Average consumption of Irish potato for one household member is 150 kg per year and up to 250 kg /year in some areas such as Gishwati, where potato production is very intensive. In Kadahenda, potato farmers face many challenges … [Read more...]
First World Congress on Root & Tuber Crops: Registration Now Open
The First World Congress on Root and Tuber Crops will be held January 18-22, 2016, in China The Global Cassava Partnership for the 21st Century (GCP21) and the International Society for Tropical Root Crops (ISTRC) join forces with CATAS (Chinese Academy of Tropical Agriculture Sciences), and GCRI (Guangxi Cassava Research Institute), to organize the First World Congress on Root and Tuber Crops in Nanning, Guangxi, China, on January 18-22, 2016. The Congress represents a unique opportunity for exchanging expert and scientific advice on Root and Tuber Crops (RTCs) – in particular for … [Read more...]