For years, poor post-harvest handling and storage have led to heavy losses for many Ugandan farmers.
But according to Professor Kant Kanyarusoke, a commercial farmer and expert in silo design, metallic silos present a revolutionary solution that commercial farmers can adopt to significantly reduce post-harvest losses.
Professor Kanyarusoke says metallic silos are airtight containers that are fabricated from galvanised steel and are designed to store grain under safe, dry conditions.
“These silos reduce moisture penetration and pest infestation, and they can store grain for more than a year without losing quality,” he explains.
He adds that with the right handling, they prevent aflatoxins from forming in grains like maize, which is a major health and trade concern.
Kenneth Kabagambe, a commercial farmer from Nyabugorogoro village in Kyenjojo district, testifies to the effectiveness of these silos.
“Before I started using metallic silos, I would lose about 30% of my maize to weevils and mold. But since I installed a 10-tonne silo on my farm, I have cut those losses to nearly zero,” he says.
Kabagambe adds that metallic silos are durable, easy to clean, and do not require pesticides to keep grain safe, making them a cost-saving investment in the long run.
Professor Kanyarusoke also notes that metallic silos can be made in different sizes to suit various farm scales and can be equipped with solar-powered aeration systems.
He urges agricultural cooperatives and government programmes to support farmers in acquiring these silos, as they play a crucial role in maintaining food quality and increasing profitability.
For commercial farmers aiming to reduce post-harvest losses and maintain grain quality, metallic silos offer a reliable and sustainable storage solution.
