The living lab in Uganda was established at the research center, featuring food systems that integrate multiple techniques, including deep-water culture (DWC), media bed systems, and nutrient film technique (NFT), to enhance efficiency and sustainability. A low-cost sensor system was implemented to ensure optimal water quality and nutrient balance, thereby supporting data-driven decision-making.

The open day served as an avenue to showcase the lab’s activities and promote conversation on agroecology among stakeholders. With over 150 attendees, the event had participants from colleges, universities,  World Aquaculture Safari, food and agriculture organisations, farmers associations, local government representatives, the Fisheries Training Institute, and NGOs.

In an opening speech by Dr. Hillary Agaba, Director General, National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO), Uganda, he highlighted the challenges and opportunities for smallholder Aquaculture farmers in East Africa and the Demonstration for technology integration in the context of the PrAEctiCe project.

Through the PrAEctiCe project, we are not only showcasing the technical potential of aquaponics but also demonstrating its economic and social relevance for smallholder farmers. Integrated systems like these represent the future of sustainable and resilient aquaculture in our community, Dr. Cassius Aruho, Program Leader of the centre, stated during his speech.

The event also included tours around the lab, including the integrated aquaponics site showing the synergy between fish and vegetable production, a showcase of the sensor-based water quality monitoring system in action, and a visit to the nutrient cycling station, demonstrating how fish waste is transformed into plant nutrients.