May 2004

A new rice variety released by the program, NARIC 3, is the most popular as reflected by seed demand. Since its release in 2002, over 1,500 hectares had been established by end of 2003. The Ugandan government has identified NARIC 3 for wider promotion in order to improve food security and rural incomes.

May 2003

• Participatory selection and release of high yielding, stress tolerant upland rice varieties for different rice farming areas was undertaken. The varieties selected and released include NARIC 1, NARIC 2 and NARIC 3. The latter is a NERICA variety developed by WARDA

• Information on rice production constraints and opportunities has been documented for the first time in Uganda.

• Dissemination of information on the new upland rice varieties and rice production has been effected through the production of a documentary film entitled: The New Upland Rice Varieties. The documentary has been telecast twice on the national television in Uganda. Attempts are being made to make more copies for distribution to farmer groups, non-governmental organizations and various institutions.

• Row planting was introduced and adopted by farmers in all the target areas.  This has been achieved through use of a fork furrower.

• Participating farmers with guidance from the project staff produced six tons of the new upland rice varieties.  Two seed companies (Harvest Farm Seeds Ltd and FICA Seeds Ltd) bought the seed from the farmers for bulking, marketing and distribution.