By Our Reporter 

Soroti District – Farmers in Adamasiko village, Awaliwal Sub-county, Soroti District have received crucial training on sustainable agriculture and eco-friendly practices, thanks to the efforts of Cajila Africa Links Institute. The initiative aims to promote pollinator protection, increase crop productivity, and encourage environmentally responsible farming methods.

During the sensitization exercise, farmers were specifically cautioned against spraying crops during early morning hours—typically between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m.—a peak period for pollinators such as bees. Julius Echodu, Manager of Sustainability at Cajila Africa Links Institute, emphasized the need to adjust spraying schedules to minimize harm to essential pollinators and support better crop yields.

“Pollinators like bees are responsible for a significant portion of food production through pollination. Spraying chemicals during their active hours disrupts this natural process and puts both yields and biodiversity at risk,” Echodu explained.

He recommended that farmers conduct spraying after 10 a.m. when bee activity begins to decline, ensuring both crop protection and ecological safety.

Beyond chemical use, the institute also promoted **apiary farming** as a strategic practice for enhancing pollination while generating alternative income. “Beekeeping is not only environmentally beneficial, but it also provides an economic opportunity through honey and other bee products,” Echodu added.

Dr. Cosmas Agweta, Executive Director of Cajila Africa Links Institute, noted that boosting bee populations can directly lead to improved crop pollination and higher yields. “Healthy ecosystems start with informed farmers. Beekeeping strengthens both environmental and food security,” he said.

Local leaders welcomed the initiative. Gilbert Okanyum, the LC1 Chairperson of Adamasiko village, praised the training, saying it had opened the community’s eyes to the benefits of sustainable farming.

“We’ve learned new approaches that can help us protect our environment while increasing our harvests,” Okanyum stated.

Vincent Opolot, LC2 Chairperson of Adamasiko Parish, appealed for more capacity-building initiatives, specifically in **apiary management, animal husbandry**, and **crop production**. “This knowledge is vital for our community’s development and resilience,” he said.

The intervention by Cajila Africa Links Institute comes at a time when climate change and environmental degradation are posing serious threats to food security. By equipping farmers with sustainable techniques, the institute is fostering a culture of resilience and environmental stewardship in rural Uganda.