Agroecological learning thrives where it is rooted on the farm. In an age of virtual seminars and hotel conferences, it’s easy to forget that some lessons can’t be taught through slides or speeches. For agroecology, the land itself is the teacher.
That’s why we continue to champion farm-based workshops as the most impactful, authentic way to educate, engage, and empower communities in sustainable agriculture while also unlocking new opportunities for agritourism and local economic growth.
On 17th September 2025, this philosophy came to life at Jero Farm in Entebbe, Uganda, where the KCOA–KHEA team proudly represented the KCOA Project and GIZ at the launch of the Women & Youth-led Network Alliances Programme (BWYNAAO).
Why Hold Workshops on Farms?
Because agroecology isn’t just a theory, it’s a practice. And there’s no better place to understand that than on an active farm.
At Jero Farm, a KHEA Multiplier site owned by Richard Mugisha, farmers, youth, students, community leaders, and policy experts came together to explore how agroecology and organic agriculture can empower women and youth in agrifood systems.
Workshops like these benefit from the unique advantages of farm settings:
- Hands-on learning: Participants are able to have practical session on the technologies and innovations employed on the farm already tested and confirmed to work
- Easy to understand: As humans we tend to concentrate better in outdoor environments as it creates stronger retention and emotional connection.
- Economic visibility: Participants are able to witness how farms generate income through diverse value chains.
Farms as Tourism Hubs
But beyond education, farms like Jero are also powerful drivers of rural tourism.
Agrotourism is growing globally and farm-based workshops are a natural fit. When visitors come to learn, they don’t just gain knowledge. They also buy local products, explore rural communities, and contribute to the local economy and give visibility to youth and women-led farming enterprises
By combining education and tourism, farm workshops support both mindset shifts and market access; an approach that aligns with agroecology’s holistic vision.
The Role of Hotels? Support, Not Substitute.
While hotels can offer comfort and accessibility for some audiences, they’re not a replacement for the farm. Instead, they can serve as entry points places to introduce agroecology before leading participants to the field for the real experience.
The core remains clear: Agroecological transformation starts where the soil is.
Looking Ahead
The Women & Youth-led Network Alliances Programme will continue to expand under the KCOA Digital Knowledge Platform, supporting grassroots innovation, peer learning, and eco-enterprise all rooted in the wisdom of the land.
Our heartfelt thanks go to our partners at GIZ, YPARD, PELUM Kenya, PELUM Uganda, the African Green Store Network, and our incredible hosts at Jero Farm , a shining example of how education, community, and tourism can thrive in one place.
In closing, farm-based agroecological education does more than teach—it embodies the principles of quality, authenticity, and accountability captured in the; KHEA/IFOAM Quality Assurance Guide. See link below;
The guide emphasizes rigorous standards, participatory evaluation, and continuous learning approaches that align seamlessly with our farm workshops. By anchoring agroecology training in real fields and applying quality assurance measures, we can build trust, replicate success, and scale sustainable practices effectively. As we expand the Women & Youth‑led Network Alliances Programme, let us commit to these shared values ensuring that every workshop, every project, and every venture upholds excellence, integrity, and community empowerment.
Stay updated on future activities and explore agroecological learning opportunities by joining the KCOA Digital Knowledge Platform:
🔗 https://kcoa-africa.org/
Blog story Prepared by; Pamella Magino (KHEA Communications Officer-PELUM Uganda and Biovision Africa Trust) and Ratemo Bathseba – PELUM Kenya KCOA Project Officer
Edited, reviewed, and uploaded by Magino Pamella-KHEA Communications Officer-PELUM Uganda and Biovision Africa Trust Kenya
Author: Pamella Magino
Ms. Magino Pamella joined PELUM Uganda on 1st Oct 2021 as Communications Officer for the KCOA-KHEA project. With 9+ years in Communications and Marketing, she specializes in Public Relations, Business Development, and Marketing. Pamella holds a Bachelor’s in Mass Communication (Public Relations) and is a Certified Member of PRAU. She has worked with organizations like The Nile Basin Initiative and Victoria University Kampala, crafting strategies that drive positive change.
