The Great Sundowner 9: Empowering Ugandan Entrepreneurs with Bio-Technology and Agribusiness Training

*By John Kusolo*

The highly anticipated Great Sundowner 9, led by Ugandan scientist and entrepreneur Omukenkufu Nyanzi Julius, is set to provide an in-depth, hands-on training program focused on science, technology, and agribusiness. Scheduled for the week of November 24-30, 2024, the program will be held at the Equatorial Hall Rooftop, attracting aspiring entrepreneurs, scientists, and farmers from across Uganda and East Africa.

*About Nyanzi Julius, The Science Commissioner*

Born on August 10, 1990, Nyanzi Julius, affectionately known as Omukenkufu, is a renowned Ugandan bio-entrepreneur, scientist, and researcher. As the CEO of Prof. Bioresearch, he has dedicated his career to promoting biotechnology solutions that emphasize agribusiness and community-centered value addition. Nyanzi’s journey began at Makerere University, where he pursued studies in science, focusing on bio-research and agribusiness. His pivotal work with Agro Genetic Technologies (AGT) in Buloba saw him spearheading innovations, particularly in Stevia production, which attracted attention from the National Chemotherapeutic Research Laboratories (NCRL) and prominent Ugandan leaders.

Nyanzi’s numerous awards, including the KCCA Young Innovator of the Year (2015) and Uganda Manufacturers' Association Innovator of the Year (2019), highlight his commitment to innovation. His impact is evident in the partnerships he has formed and the accolades from Uganda's Private Sector Foundation and Uganda Manufacturers’ Association (UMA).

*The Great Sundowner 9 Training Program*

This year's training program has been designed to address the needs of modern entrepreneurs looking to enhance their skills in biotechnology, agribusiness, and cottage industries. With a ticket price of UGX 100,000, participants not only gain entry but also stand a chance to win an automatic chicken incubator and receive a complimentary seedling of clove and button mushroom.

*Keynote Trainer:*

Omukenkufu Nyanzi Julius

Nyanzi, referred to as the “Science Commissioner” for his leadership in biotechnology, will lead the Great Sundowner 9 training program, which will delve into innovative methods for integrating technology into agriculture and agribusiness.

**Topics Covered*

*Technology & Science**

This topic will examine the intersection of technology and science with a focus on:

*Electricity Generation* *from Rubbish/Garbage/Waste:*

Exploring methods to convert waste into electricity, reducing environmental impact while creating sustainable energy solutions.

*Milk Value Addition and Casein Production:*

This session will cover milk processing techniques that add value and explore the commercial possibilities of casein, a protein used in various industries.

*Mushroom Seed Production and Tissue Culture:*

Participants will learn advanced techniques for producing mushroom seeds, an essential skill for mushroom farming, and the application of tissue culture in agriculture.

*Modern Farming*

This topic will cover:

*Cloves (Karafuu) Cultivation:*

Focusing on growing cloves, a high-value crop with medicinal and commercial benefits.

*Black Seed (Habbat* *Sauda) Cultivation* :

Black seed is celebrated for its health benefits and high demand in pharmaceutical and health industries.

Agribusiness

This topic emphasizes business opportunities within agriculture:

*Button Mushroom Growing:*

Training in mushroom farming, a lucrative agribusiness with high returns.

*Natural Herbicides Production* :

Participants will explore the production of natural herbicides, an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides.

Cottage Industries

This topic encourages participants to establish small-scale businesses that can operate from home:

*Chicken Incubators Technology* : Covering the technology behind automated chicken incubators, ideal for poultry farmers looking to increase production.

Glass Cleaners Production: A look at creating glass cleaners, which are cost-effective to produce and have a constant market demand.

*Empowering Uganda's Agribusiness Entrepreneurs*

The Great Sundowner 9 training reflects Nyanzi’s vision of a Uganda where technology, science, and entrepreneurship thrive hand in hand. Participants will gain practical knowledge, networking opportunities, and strategies to integrate these methods into their businesses. The program encourages Ugandans to move beyond traditional farming and embrace innovation, positioning themselves competitively within local and international markets.

Nyanzi’s Prof. Bioresearch provides a wide array of bio-research products aimed at addressing real-world challenges in agribusiness. The company also develops innovative products and has contributed significantly to agricultural development by promoting eco-friendly, sustainable solutions that align with national goals of environmental conservation and food security.

The Great Sundowner 9 is more than just a training program; it’s a transformative experience for those seeking to harness bio-technology and agribusiness skills to build sustainable livelihoods. Led by Omukenkufu Nyanzi Julius, this event promises to be an invaluable experience for attendees, equipping them with tools and insights needed to contribute to Uganda's agricultural sector.