When you visit Zeus Agro farm in Bulambuli, one of the first things you notice is the organised, well-maintained rice fields, and the modern sprayers in action.
These machines have become a vital part of the farm’s operations, especially in protecting crops from pests and diseases.
According to Alvin Katungi, the farm manager, modern sprayers have transformed how they manage pests and apply fertilisers.
“Before, we used knapsack sprayers which were slow and labour-intensive. But with our modern sprayers, we can cover over 10 acres in just a few hours, they ensure an even application, which improves crop health and leads to better yields,” he says.
Katungi adds that modern sprayers reduce human contact with harmful chemicals, making farming safer for workers.
“They are also more efficient in using chemicals. We use less but get better results,” he explains.
Isaac Malinga, a commercial farmer who also owns modern sprayers, says he used to lose a lot of crops to pests because spraying was delayed. Now, he can act immediately.
His sprayers are mounted on motorbikes and can be used on both flat and hilly terrain, making them ideal for large and varied farms.
Malinga notes that the sprayers also help reduce labour costs.
“With one machine and a trained operator, I can handle what used to require a team of five people.”
