Maize Training Manual for Extension Workers in Uganda

Maize is an important food and income security crop that supports livelihood of millions of small-scale farmers in Uganda. However, average yields of maize have remained as low as 2.2-2.5 MT/ha, compared to the potential of 8 MT/ha. The quality standards of maize grain produced is generally low, and losses during harvesting, transport, storage and processing as relatively high.

In order to achieve the broader policy goals and strategic objectives, the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries with support from USAID Feed the Future Uganda Enabling Environment Activity and Sasakawa Global developed a harmonized Maize Training Manual with a corresponding User's Guide.

This training manual has been designed for extension workers engaged in training farmers but can be used by other value chain actors in the maize production. The objective is to transform maize production from a predominantly subsistence, low input and low productivity activity, to a fully commercialized farming business consequently improving household incomes of rural farmers who form the majority of the population in Uganda. This manual will also enable farmers make informed decisions regarding maize production.