PUM Expert Geert Lemmers Visits MTRC to Support Button Mushroom Project

 We were honored to host Mr. Geert Lemmers, a mushroom cultivation expert from PUM (Programma Uitzending Managers) in the Netherlands, for a three-day technical support visit at the Mushroom Training and Resource Centre (MTRC) from Tuesday, 20th May to Thursday, 22nd May 2025.

MTRC team posing with Mr. Geert at the Centre’s Head Office

Mr. Lemmers arrived at Katuna border on Tuesday morning and was warmly received by the MTRC team. After checking into his hotel in Kabale, he visited our facility where he toured our site, inspected the container designated to serve as both a bunker and pasteurization unit for our new button mushroom project, and reviewed the compost preparation process currently underway. His expert insights helped us refine our composting approach and improve the efficiency of our operations.

Mr. Geert having a one on one discussion with staff from MTRC

The day continued with a delightful luncheon in his honor, followed by an in-depth theoretical training session on button mushroom cultivation and the operation of the container system. His knowledge-sharing session empowered our team with practical insights and up-to-date techniques.

Work on the container being started

On the second day, Mr. Lemmers guided the physical setup of the container alongside a local specialist. The setup was successfully completed, and it was agreed that the first bulk composting session will take place in October 2025 when Mr. Allen Kiiza will be on-site to lead the process. Mr. Lemmers also toured our gravitational water system, which was previously donated by PUM, and acknowledged its critical role in supporting our agricultural operations.

The container being assembled

Before concluding his visit, Mr. Lemmers generously shared technical notes and educational materials to support continued learning and sustainability of the project. On Thursday, we accompanied him to Mbarara, where he met with another mushroom farmer to extend his support to other growers in the region.

The container after assembling, ready for bulk composting

We are deeply grateful to PUM and Mr. Geert Lemmers for their ongoing support and contribution to the growth of sustainable mushroom farming in Uganda. This visit marks a significant milestone in the advancement of our button mushroom project, and we look forward to future collaboration.


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