On the 20th of April, 2024, members of the Avian Conservation Uganda Society embarked on an enlightening field visit to Farm Holdings Limited (https://twitter.com/farmresorts2?lang=en ), nestled in Kakiri, Wakiso District along the Hoima Road. This journey into the heart of conservation and agriculture proved to be an enriching experience for the team, composed of passionate members of the Avian Conservation Uganda Society.
Upon arrival, the team was warmly welcomed with a hearty breakfast, setting the tone for a day of exploration and discovery. The first enchanting encounter awaited within the confines of the compound, where the melodious chirps of Village Weaver birds filled the air, signaling the co-existence of nature and human endeavor.
Guided by the spirit of conservation, the team ventured into the meticulously-kept botanical gardens at Farm Resorts (https://m.facebook.com/p/Kakiri-Country-Resort-100052891166430/ ). Here, amidst the lush foliage, they were blessed with a rare sight, the elegant Great Blue Turaco, tending to its nest adorned with two precious chicks. For many in the team, this was a first-time encounter of a Great Blue Turaco nest, a moment cherished for its profound beauty and significance.
During the expedition (https://ebird.org/checklist/S169520324 ), the natural wonders of Farm resorts continued to unfold as the team ventured into a near-perfectly-preserved natural forest. The forest, with its diverse flora, spoke volumes of the pristine air quality, evident in the flourishing lichens adorning the trees, a testament to the delicate balance of nature preserved within. The rare sighting of the melodic Red-capped Robin-Chat, a pair of Blue Malkoha and the Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird made the stroll through the forest worthwhile.
Eager to delve deeper into what Farm resorts has to offer, the team received invaluable insights into various bird indication methods. From the subtle calls echoing through the canopy to the intricate nests hidden amidst branches, and even the delicate feathers left behind as clues, each technique served as a gateway to the avian world. With expert guidance, the team even had the privilege of spotting the majestic Black and White Casqued Hornbill feathers, a triumph of patience and skill.
The expedition extended beyond the confines of the botanical gardens, meandering through coffee plantations, cattle kraals, and even an adventure park all seamlessly integrated into the landscape of conservation and agriculture at Farm resorts. Farm Holdings Limited – Farm resorts parent company, true to its ethos, embraces a holistic approach to regenerative agriculture, encompassing activities such as bee keeping, coffee nursery bedding and nurturing a planted forest boasting a diverse array of Eucalyptus species. All this has birthed an impressive ecosystem on the farm that makes it a model to envy. It is no wonder Farm Holdings was voted the Best coffee farmer in the Central region by a local coffee farmers’ association.
In a heartfelt gesture, Farm resorts was bestowed with a membership certificate, marking their official induction as corporate members of the Avian Conservation Uganda Society. This gesture of appreciation extended to the management, under the stewardship of Mr. Wycliffe and Mrs. Eva Birungi, whose dedication to conserving the natural habitat deserves commendation.
In reflection, Farm Holdings Limited stands as a poignant testament to the benefits of harmonious coexistence of wildlife and agriculture. It exemplifies how, through mindful stewardship and a deep reverence for nature, we can nurture thriving natural ecosystems alongside agricultural pursuits, ensuring a legacy of sustainability for generations to come.