The Government has begun the nationwide roll-out of Skeepon Technology (SKP), a climate-smart agricultural innovation expected to help farmers protect crops from drought, heat stress and erratic rainfall.
The technology was launched last week by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja during the 2026 National Agricultural Show in Jinja as part of government efforts to strengthen agricultural productivity and build resilience against climate change.
Developed through a partnership involving the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), the Office of the Prime Minister and Japan’s Ac-Planta Inc., Skeepon is a plant bio-stimulant that activates a crop’s natural ability to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Government says the technology enables crops to continue growing under water stress and high temperatures for up to three months, improving plant health and increasing yields.
Field trials conducted by NARO over two cropping seasons showed promising results, with maize yields increasing by more than 30 percent and vegetable yields by over 45 percent compared to untreated crops. Researchers also reported stronger plant growth and improved tolerance to drought.
Speaking at the launch, Prime Minister Nabbanja said government will continue investing in practical technologies that help farmers adapt to climate change while improving food production and household incomes.
NARO Director General Dr. Yona Baguma described Skeepon as a research-backed innovation that offers practical solutions to the challenges facing Uganda’s farmers.
The technology, which is already used commercially in Japan, the United States and South Korea, is expected to complement existing farming practices such as irrigation, improved seed and fertiliser use, while also benefiting rain-fed agriculture.
Government is also exploring local production of Skeepon to reduce costs, create jobs and make the technology more accessible to farmers across the country. Distribution will be coordinated through NARO Holdings Limited in partnership with agricultural extension services, cooperatives, agro-input dealers and private sector players.
Officials believe the technology will improve food security, boost farmer incomes and support Uganda’s broader agenda of agricultural transformation in the face of climate change.
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