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Uganda: TAAT Empowers Youth Agripreneurs to Boost Soybean Productivity
The Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation is advancing youth-led agricultural transformation in Uganda, as young agripreneurs in Mukono District record impressive gains in soybean productivity through the adoption of improved technologies and best agronomic practices.
Through its Soybean Compact and the Youth in Agribusiness Compact (ENABLE-TAAT), the programme continues to demonstrate how innovation, skills development, and targeted support can unlock opportunities for youth while strengthening food systems across Africa.
Record Yields Signal a New Era for Soybean Production
In Mukono District, soybean demonstration plots established under TAAT interventions have delivered remarkable results, showcasing the potential of climate-smart agriculture.
Yields recorded include:
Up to 1,300 kg per acre for the Maksoy 6N variety under Nodumax treatment
920 kg per acre for Maksoy 3N under similar conditions
800 kg and 710 kg per acre for Rhizobia-treated plots
When converted to hectare equivalents, these results translate to approximately:
3.25 tonnes per hectare for Maksoy 6N
Up to 2.0 tonnes per hectare under Rhizobia treatment
These figures significantly outperform traditional farming systems, highlighting the effectiveness of TAAT technologies and their potential to meet (and exceed) target productivity levels under optimal conditions.
Driving Productivity Through Knowledge and Innovation
The success of these youth agripreneurs is rooted in targeted capacity building and hands-on learning.
Through field demonstrations and training sessions, participants gained practical knowledge in the use of improved, climate-resilient soybean varieties such as Maksoy 6N and Maksoy 3N, the application of high-performance inoculants, including Nodumax and Rhizobia, the adoption of Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), such as optimal spacing (5 cm × 50 cm), and timely planting
These interventions have enabled farmers to maximise yields while improving soil fertility and resilience to climate variability.
Sustaining Momentum and Scaling Impact
According to Dr. Oluwaseun Omikunle, Technical Expert for the TAAT Soybean Compact led by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, the results represent a significant milestone.
“These outcomes demonstrate real progress. Our goal is to sustainably achieve yields of at least 2.5 tonnes per hectare by improving soil health, managing dry spells, and strengthening post-harvest practices,” he said.
While the results are promising, scaling these gains to larger production systems remains a key challenge. Limited access to land (particularly for expanding demonstration plots and conducting large-scale trials) has constrained wider adoption.
This underscores the need for stronger partnerships and increased investment to ensure that more young farmers can benefit from these innovations.
Transforming Livelihoods Through Youth Agribusiness
Beyond productivity gains, the initiative is delivering tangible socio-economic impact.
By adopting improved technologies, young farmers are increasing their incomes, enhancing household food security, and contributing to the growth of Uganda’s soybean value chain.
These outcomes reinforce the role of youth as critical drivers of agricultural transformation and economic development.
A Strategic Crop for the Future
With continued support from TAAT and IITA, soybean is emerging as a strategic crop for Uganda—offering opportunities for value addition, nutrition, and market expansion.
The success in Mukono District demonstrates what is possible when young farmers are equipped with the right tools, knowledge, and support systems.
As TAAT continues to scale its interventions, the focus remains on expanding access to improved technologies, strengthening partnerships across the value chain
Empowering more youth to participate in agribusiness.
With innovation at the core and youth at the forefront, Uganda is well-positioned to unlock the full potential of soybean production and drive sustainable agricultural transformation.
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