TAAT technologies drive soybean yields in Uganda: IITA youth harvest success

30 March 2026

Mukono Youth Agripreneurs celebrating a bountiful soybean harvest.
Mukono Youth Agripreneurs celebrating a bountiful soybean harvest.

Mukono Youth Agripreneurs are celebrating a bountiful soybean harvest, thanks to the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) Soybean and ENABLE TAAT youth compacts. By embracing improved technologies, these young farmers have achieved impressive yields, showcasing the power of innovation and collaboration.

The results are in, and they are impressive: Nodumax-treated plots of 100m x 100m yielded 1300kg of Maksoy 6N and 920kg of Maksoy 3N, while Rhizobia-treated plots of 100m x 100m yielded 800kg of Maksoy 6N and 710kg of Maksoy 3N. These results outshine foundation seed-only and farmers’ practice plots, highlighting the impact of TAAT’s interventions.

Dr Omikunle conducting a hands-on training during the field day.
Dr Omikunle conducting a hands-on training during the field day.

The youths’ success stems from the hands-on soybean agronomy training that they received during the Field Day Showcasing Innovative Production Technologies. They learned about key technologies such as improved, resilient seeds like Maksoy 6N and Maksoy 3N, inoculants like Nodumax and Rhizobia, and good agronomic practices, including optimal spacing of 5 cm x 50 cm and timely planting. You can read more about the Field Day event and the soybean processing training in our previous blogs.

The TAAT Soybean Compact initiative has made a significant impact on farmers and youths, with Mukono Youth Agripreneurs showcasing promising results. Dr Oluwaseun Omikunle, IITA/TAAT Soybean Compact’s Technical Expert, emphasizes the growth potential, noting that the target is to increase yield from 800kg to 2.5 metric tons per hectare. He encourages them to aim higher, citing factors like dry spells, fertilization, and post-harvest handling as areas for improvement.

Two young farmers proudly display their bountiful soybean harvest.
Two young farmers proudly display their bountiful soybean harvest.

With TAAT technologies, these young farmers are poised to boost productivity and income. “There is a need to attain at least 2,000kg per hectare, to better the livelihood of farmers and their households,” Dr Omikunle notes. The future looks bright for Uganda’s soybean industry, thanks to the dedication of these young farmers and support from initiatives like TAAT and IITA. As youths continue to harness the power of innovation, their harvests are set to soar, transforming Uganda’s agricultural landscape.

Contributed by Moureen Awori (IITA-Uganda), Beckie Nakabugo (IITA-Uganda/TAAT), Oluwaseun Omikunle (IITA-Nigeria/TAAT), and John Obaniyi (IITA-Nigeria/TAAT).