Exhibitors urge gov’t to modernise Jinja Agricultural Show

Exhibitors at the ongoing National Agricultural and Trade Show have challenged the Uganda National Farmers Federation (UNFFE) to modernise the annual event, arguing that its format has changed little over the past three decades despite the evolving needs of the agricultural sector.

They say upgrading the show to international standards would require the construction of modern exhibition stalls, dedicated training spaces where farmers can learn about emerging technologies, and improved sanitation facilities for both exhibitors and visitors.

The exhibitors also called for standard washroom facilities that can be accessed without additional charges, arguing that better infrastructure would attract more international exhibitors, create new market opportunities and strengthen networking within the agribusiness sector.

Johnson Basangwa of Jeka Poultry Farm said the Agricultural Show has played an important role in connecting farmers to quality inputs, markets and agricultural experts, but believes the event needs to evolve.

“We appreciate UNFFE’s relentless efforts in connecting farmers to quality inputs, markets and experts in their respective fields, but there is a need for diversification. They should benchmark against similar international exhibitions, which would position the show as more attractive to both farmers and exhibitors,” he said.

Basangwa also questioned the duration of the exhibition, noting that most international agricultural exhibitions last no more than three days.

“I normally attend international exhibitions, and they usually last three days. This allows exhibitors to return to their businesses quickly and reduces expenses on accommodation, meals and other costs,” he said.

He added that the current 10-day exhibition discourages many potential visitors, who often postpone attending until it is too late.

“Holding the show for 10 days creates reluctance among showgoers, who are our primary target. A shorter exhibition would encourage more people to attend promptly before returning to their businesses,” he said.

Brenda Musasizi, an exhibitor from Horticulture House, said the primary objective of participating in the exhibition is to engage directly with farmers, but this has become increasingly difficult.

She urged organisers to adopt the international practice of offering free entry to visitors while charging exhibitors for exhibition space.

“We pay millions of shillings for exhibition space and also hire tents, tables and chairs for 10 days. The organizers should appreciate exhibitors by offering free entry to visitors and making it easier for more farmers to attend, since we already shoulder most of the costs,” she said.

Musasizi said increased attendance would enable exhibitors to expand their reach and access more local markets.

Another exhibitor, Stella Nakilanda, who deals in agricultural machinery, said UNFFE should begin advertising the exhibition at least two months in advance to give exhibitors and visitors adequate time to prepare.

She noted that social media has become one of the most effective communication platforms and should be fully utilised to reach potential visitors.

Nakilanda said better promotion would enable exhibitors to engage more effectively with farmers and other stakeholders while maximising the value of participating in the exhibition.

Responding to the concerns, UNFFE president Dick Kamuganga defended the current format, saying the Jinja National Agricultural Show remains Uganda’s premier agricultural exhibition because of its unique features.

He said the exhibition offers well-organised demonstration gardens that farmers can easily relate to, as well as ample space for showcasing modern technologies in irrigation, aquaculture and other agricultural enterprises, allowing visitors to acquire practical hands-on skills.

Kamuganga added that extending the exhibition from one week to 10 days was intended to give exhibitors more time to interact with farmers from different parts of the country.

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