Events, Uganda

Diversity fair in Uganda

September 23rd, 2010

A bean diversity fair was held in Uganda on the 21st of June 2010. Farmers representing 40 villages came with their varieties and explained the use of the varieties. The fair was a big party for farmers, they had an opportunity to know which varieties were available on other villages, and to share their knowledge about varieties. More than 500 people attended the fair.

The theme of the fair was “Crop Diversity, Our Heritage, Our Livelihood”. During the fair farmers organized several events, including traditional singing and poems, a painting competition for schools all related to the fair theme.

The organizing committee also gave prizes to the villages, the first three, which displayed the highets number of varieties and the best set-up.

Attended by several officials, including local political leaders, MPs, Bioversity International representatives, the fair was an opportunity to raise the awareness of the public about the importance of agricultural biodiversity for livelihood and to control pests and diseases. For a full account of the fair click here.