Summary:
Charity Akuma, the project coordinator at Palm Corps, stated that the purpose of the iKnowFarm App is to ensure that all farmers can easily connect with certified input dealers and access high-quality crop varieties.
KATAKWI: In a bid to enhance farmers’ access to a variety of quality crops, Palm Corps, in collaboration with the non-governmental organization Welt Hunger Hilf, has trained extension workers and input dealers on how to use the iKnowFarm App.
The training took place at the Katakwi District Council Hall on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, with the aim of scaling up data-driven digital innovation for climate resilience.
Charity Akuma, the project coordinator at Palm Corps, stated that the purpose of the iKnowFarm App is to ensure that all farmers can easily connect with certified input dealers and access high-quality crop varieties.
“The iKnowFarm App was designed to help farmers access weather forecasts and manage post-harvest handling effectively,” Akuma explained.
However, Justine Omeke, a farmer, raised concerns about local farmers who lack smartphones or cannot afford internet data. She urged the organization to conduct community sensitization programs to educate farmers on how to download and use the app.
Similarly, Samuel Odukatum, the Agricultural Officer for Getom Sub-county, called on partner organizations to teach the community about the app’s benefits. He also emphasized the need to ensure the safety and trustworthiness of transactions made through the app.
John Robert Ocen, the Veterinary Officer for Getom Sub-county, welcomed the initiative, stating that it would help extension workers access critical agricultural information.
“As extension workers, we are committed to educating local farmers on how the app works,” Ocen affirmed.
Matthew Bandale, the Program Coordinator for AFI Katakwi Cluster, commended the organizations for their innovation but urged them to incorporate relevant content into the app. He also highlighted the need to address malnutrition among young children and mothers in rural areas.
Meanwhile, Faith Akwi, the Assistant Chief Administrative Officer (ACAO) of Katakwi District Local Government, who represented the CAO, praised the initiative, noting that it would help address several challenges faced by farmers. She emphasized that the app would provide extension workers with essential information related to their work.
Katakwi District Vice Chairman Joseph Ecuman also appreciated the efforts of the partner organizations, describing them as “bright minds and rescuers of farmers.” He noted that the app would help farmers stay informed about weather patterns.
Additionally, Ecuman urged extension workers to remain dedicated to educating the community on proper agricultural practices.
He also advised input dealers to prioritize farmers’ well-being by ensuring the safe sale of agricultural chemicals, particularly fertilizers.
