Njeru, Jinja — The 12th edition of Uganda’s flagship Best Farmers Competition has been officially launched at the De Heus/Koudijs Animal Nutrition Plant in Njeru, Jinja city, with stakeholders calling for a shift toward commercial agriculture and stronger farmer cooperatives.
The competition, organised by Vision Group, and partners including dfcu bank, KLM, De Heus and Koudijs, is backed by a €1 million (about Shs4.1 billion) grant from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands under the VISA programme.
Focus on commercial farming
This year’s edition runs under the theme “Farming as a Business: Growth, Commercialisation and Cooperatives,” with organisers aiming to transform agriculture from subsistence to enterprise.
Managing Director of Vision Group, Don Wanyama, said the competition has already made a significant impact on Uganda’s farming landscape.
“The competition has so far rewarded 137 best farmers across the country, all of whom have travelled to the Netherlands. By the end of this year, we shall add another 13 winners,” Wanyama said.
He added that at least Shs1.65 billion has been awarded in cash prizes over the years, helping farmers invest in modern equipment and improve productivity.
“If we were only picking the very best, winners would come from just a few regions. That is why we divided the country into 10 sub-regions so each area produces a role model for others to learn from,” he explained.
Farmers urged to embrace enterprise mindset
Speaking on behalf of dfcu Bank, Head of Integrated Channels Mathias Jumba encouraged farmers to participate, emphasising the competition’s role in building agribusiness skills.
“This competition proves that farming is not subsistence — it is enterprise. Enter not just for the prizes, but because the process itself will sharpen your business,” Jumba said.
Netherlands pledges continued support
In a speech delivered by Andrew Byaruhanga on behalf of Deputy Ambassador Bouwe-Jan Smeding, the Netherlands reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Uganda’s agricultural transformation.
“These visits to the Netherlands have yielded exposure, partnerships and investments. Without this initiative, we would not have projects like the one we see here today,” the message read.
The embassy also highlighted the role of cooperatives in strengthening farmers’ market access and bargaining power.
Innovation and value addition key
Country Manager of Koudijs Uganda, Guido Stevens, said investments in local production are critical to supporting farmers.
“By investing in local feed production, we are strengthening the entire system around farmers — reducing imports and ensuring access to quality inputs,” he said.
Chief Judge Dr Emma Naluyima urged farmers to adopt a business-oriented approach. “We look beyond the farm — are you organised, do you keep records, are you business-minded? That is what defines a modern farmer,” she said.
Private sector support
Lukia Otema, the Country Manager of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to the initiative.
“This competition embodies the spirit of innovation and dedication that defines Uganda’s agricultural sector,” she said. “Your contribution to agriculture is truly invaluable.”
Nationwide reach
The competition spans 10 sub-regions across Uganda, ensuring national representation, with 13 winners set to receive an all-expenses-paid trip to the Netherlands and share Shs150 million in prize money.
Launched in 2014, the Best Farmers Competition has grown into one of Uganda’s most respected agricultural platforms, promoting innovation, value addition, and knowledge exchange.
