From 24 th -27 March 2025, YLEC, JESE and SwB Uganda representatives had inception meetings with farmer groups in the Mt. Elgon area (Buginyana, Sipi, Bududa, Bufumbo) , introducing the initiatives of Living Labs and e-guides, which provide accessible training on sustainable techniques, crop diversification, and market access.
The Living Labs aims to respond to the persistent problems that coffee farmers are faced with, including unproductive land, a limited finance base, climate variations, limited extension services, etc. Via the Living Labs farmers will receive training on soil and water conservation methods, tree nursery establishment, tree planting, agroforestry techniques, agro-waste management and processing, bee keeping and rain water harvesting techniques.
Despite challenges in the form of heavy rain, the meetings had important outcomes.
- Land for four Living Labs were identified. Each site was allocated a minimum of 0.2 ha. Three of the Living Lab sites are owned by individual farmers, and one is owned by a group (Bududa).
- Local coordinators were nominated and approved by the groups. These will monitor and report to the implementing team on progress
- Farmers agreed to collectively participate in the management of the Living Lab initiatives Next steps include tailored training sessions and capture of e-Learning videos and leaning within the
Living Labs
