The Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries, Frank Tumwebaze, has asked stakeholders, including farmers, private sector actors, civil society, and all citizens, to come together and confront challenges that affect the agricultural sector to ensure food security in Uganda.
Tumwebaze made the remarks while delivering a keynote address during the commemoration of the World Food Day event held on Friday, October 18, 2024, at the Imperial Royal Hotel in Kampala.
“We must also confront the critical challenges facing the agricultural sector both globally and here in Uganda. Prolonged droughts and floods have already affected our farmers and threatened food production. This is why the government is steadfast in its commitment to scaling up investments in climate-smart agriculture, irrigation, and sustainable water use,” he said.
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He added, “The alliance is perfectly aligned with our national development goals. It highlights the profound truth that food is not only a basic human right but also a key pillar for a healthy, prosperous, and sustainable future. It is upon us, farmers, private sector actors, civil society, and all citizens to unite in ensuring that every Ugandan has access to sufficient safe and nutritious food. It is our moral duty and an integral part of our vision for a better Uganda.”
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Tumwebaze urged farmers to continue embracing modern sustainable and resilient agricultural practices to strike the balance between meeting contemporary needs and preserving the environment for future generations.
“To our research institutions, let us ensure that such products reach the farmers who are the intended beneficiaries. To our development partners, we encourage you to work alongside us in promoting nutrition and sensitive agriculture,” he said.
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According to Tumwebaze, producers should ensure that food produced is both nutritious and safe, especially for children, women, and vulnerable groups, adding that there should be equitable distribution of food across the country.
Charles Owachi, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Deputy Representative, said that there is a need for relevant policies, regulations, technologies, and institutions in Uganda to ensure distribution of healthy food around the country.
