Introduction:

The Uganda Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (UFAAS), in partnership with the Africa Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (AFAAS) and AgConnectors, is implementing the Digital Connectors for Farming Communities (DC4FC). The DC4FC is one of the 11 sub-projects under the Strengthening Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Ecosystem for Inclusive Rural Transformation and Livelihoods in Eastern Africa (AIRTEA) Project. AIRTEA is funded by the European Union through the Organization of African Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) Research & Innovation Programme, coordinated by the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) and implemented by the Association of Strengthening Agricultural Research in East and Central Africa (ASARECA) and the East African Farmers Federation (EAFF). In Uganda, it is implemented in the districts of Bugiri and Luweero, together with two Farmers’ Organisations, that were identified as effective Innovation Platforms (IPs) for hosting the project.

Who are the Digital Connectors:

“Digital Connectors” are individuals who act as local champions within farming communities, utilizing digital technologies to bridge the gap between farmers and agricultural information and services, primarily focused on improving agricultural practices and livelihoods. They bridge the last mile in agriculture extension.  They:

• Connect farmers and their groups with products, information, or services that add value to smallholder farmers
• Their partnerships include agri input companies, non-profit agencies, lead farmers and farmer groups, markets, and equipment providers among others
• They prioritize the creation of value for their clients – both farmers and institutions they are linked with.

Main Focus:

The 2.5  years DF4FC project is focused on:

1. Creating employment opportunities for rural women and youth as Digital Connectors (DCs) by:

• • Build the capacities of women and youth as Digital Connectors.
  • Review and assessment of business models (existing and new) for sustainable AEAS services through digital connectors.

2. Digital delivery of AEAS services to farming communities through:

• • Reviewing and assessing existing digital AEAS services available to farmers.
  • Supporting the DCs to deliver digital services offered through their business models.

3. Provide evidence-based information for policy makers by:

• • Review and assessment/ analysis of policies supporting digital AEAS delivery.
  • Conducting dialogues to deliberate on district policy environment for the delivery of digitalized agricultural extension services.

Media files about AIRTEA Project:

Download Resources:

 UFAAS AIRTEA Brochure