Agro-input dealer in Uganda helps farmers to embrace bioprotection

Category: Portal in action

Case studies from growers and advisors using the Portal to identify and adopt bioprotection approaches.

At a glance

Anthony Ssenyonga, an agro-input dealer in Zirobwe, Uganda, transitioned from being a small-scale input seller to a certified plant doctor and business owner.
After receiving CABI training, and learning about the CABI BioProtection Portal, he formalised his business and began promoting bioprotection solutions.
Farmers who used his diagnostic services and advice saw significant improvements in yield and quality.
Many farmers have shifted from high-risk pesticides to biopesticides, supported by use of the CABI BioProtection Portal.

Anthony Ssenyonga is a trained agro-input dealer and plant doctor based in Zirobwe Town Council, Uganda. Before undergoing CABI training he was a small-scale vegetable producer and operated a modest agro-input shop. Since then, he has gone on to change his business trajectory and influenced the farming practices of his community.

Anthony and a farmer in a field. Copyright: Anthony Ssenyonga

The challenges local farmers faced

Before receiving training, Anthony was ‘just selling inputs’ without a structured plan. Crop loss was common for local farmers due to pest infestations. For example, Tuta absoluta and fall armyworm were widespread, often cutting yields by over 50%.

Anthony and a farmer in a watermelon field. Credit: Anthony Ssenyonga

Anthony’s solution

Anthony credits CABI’s PlantwisePlus training and the CABI BioProtection Portal with completely transforming his approach:

‘After the training, I decided to revamp my small business into a well-established and managed business enterprise. I also went ahead to apply for certification from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) to get the consent of the regulator to be a certified agro-input dealer.’

Through his business, Divine Mercy Agro Connect SMC-LTD, he began offering free crop pest diagnostics, safe pesticide use training, and tailored pest control advice. Bioprotection played a central role in this transition. Anthony explains:

‘Farmers have started migrating from high-risk pesticides to low-risk pesticides and biopesticides such as Azadirachtin [which is neem-based], [as well as the] use of pheromone traps. I have slowly shifted them from using high risk [products] using the CABI BioProtection Portal as a reference.’

In addition to adopting more environmentally friendly pest management methods as a result of Anthony’s efforts, farmers are also implementing safer practices—such as using personal protective equipment—to reduce risks to human health

Increased crop yields

Anthony’s science-based advice has helped many farmers dramatically improve yields. For example:

‘Mr. Kyambade who ventures into tomato production used to register 30% losses due to Tuta absoluta… the farm can now harvest 95% from his farm.’

In addition, ‘Mr Pascal Imarach… used to yield 10 bags (1 ton)/acre due to the fall armyworm attack but now he harvests 30 bags (3 ton)/acre due to the scientific recommendations I interested him with.’

Some farmers have even started exporting produce, thanks to improved crop quality. Anthony’s shop is now seen not just as a supply point, but as a trusted consultation hub.

Anthony inspecting a cabbage field. Copyright: Anthony Ssenyonga

Providing real-world value

Anthony Ssenyonga’s transformation from an informal input seller to a certified plant doctor and bioprotection advocate shows the real-world value of agricultural training and digital tools. With the help of resources like the CABI BioProtection Portal, he has enhanced his business and helped local farmers choose safer and more sustainable crop protection.

‘The plant doctor training has played a crucial role in helping me capture farmers’ attention… Presently, this recognition continues to attract customers and enhance the credibility of my business.’

His efforts have had a ripple effect throughout the community, resulting in a growing number of trained youths, the creation of a farmer support group on WhatsApp, and increased use of alternatives to chemical pesticides. Anthony’s story is a telling example of how someone can drive real transformation in local agriculture.

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Resources

Learn more about CABI’s PlantwisePlus programme and its impact on farmers across the world.

Use the CABI BioProtection Portal’s search function to find bioprotection products that are available in your country. 