Uganda has deepened its four-decade partnership with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), after receiving USD 100 million to expand the National Oil Palm Project into new districts in Busoga, Eastern Uganda.
The announcement was made during a bilateral meeting in Rome, Italy, on 13th February 2026, attended by Finance Minister Matia Kasaija and IFAD President Alvaro Lario.
The financing, approved by IFAD’s Executive Board in December 2025, is part of Uganda’s ongoing efforts to boost agricultural productivity, strengthen food security, and increase household incomes in rural communities.
Minister Kasaija expressed gratitude for IFAD’s enduring support, noting that since 1981, Uganda has partnered with the organization on 19 projects, totaling over USD 659 million in loans and grants, which have significantly transformed rural livelihoods.
He said the investments have directly improved rural incomes, strengthened food security, and reduced poverty.
“This new funding for the National Oil Palm Project will extend these benefits to even more communities in Eastern Uganda reflecting IFAD’s commitment through both funding and expert support,” Minister Kasaija said.
The Finance Minister emphasized that IFAD’s support extends beyond financing, providing technical expertise, strategy, and long-term commitment to Uganda’s agricultural systems.
“IFAD’s support is more than funding; it brings knowledge, strategy, and a long-term commitment to Uganda’s farmers. We are committed to ensuring these benefits reach every community,” he added.
Alvaro Lario, IFAD President, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to Uganda’s agricultural development.
“We are proud to have walked this journey with Uganda for over four decades because our support is aimed at lifting rural communities out of poverty, the IFAD President stated.
“We urge the implementing agency, MAAIF Uganda, to fast-track these projects so farmers see tangible benefits as soon as possible,” he added.
The funding comes as part of Uganda and IFAD’s ongoing 2021–2027 Country Strategic Opportunities Programme (COSOP), which aligns with Uganda’s National Development Plans, IFAD’s corporate priorities, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework.
Current public sector projects under this programme include the National Oil seeds Project (USD 99.56 million), the National Oil Palm Project (USD 77 million), and the Resilient Livestock Value Chain Project (USD 99.57 million).
With this new investment, Uganda is set to expand oil palm cultivation, create jobs, and further boost rural incomes and food security in Eastern Uganda, strengthening the transformative impact of its four-decade partnership with IFAD and demonstrating a sustained commitment to empowering rural communities across the country.
