President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has hailed the transformative power of scientific research in agriculture, describing it as a cornerstone for socioeconomic progress.
Speaking at the extraordinary African Union Summit held at Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort, the President stressed the need to modernize agriculture through innovative research and technology to accelerate Africa’s economic transformation.
The summit, convened to develop a 10-year Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) Strategy and Action Plan for 2026–2035, brought together African leaders and key stakeholders to address food security, climate change, and agricultural development.
“We must ensure good quality seeds through scientific research,” said President Museveni. “I salute our scientists for developing improved seed varieties with higher yields and greater resilience to diseases and drought. These innovations are critical for transitioning from traditional to modern, commercial agriculture.”
Uganda’s Leadership in Agricultural Innovation
The President highlighted the achievements of the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), which has been at the forefront of Uganda’s agricultural transformation.
Over the past three decades, NARO has developed over 1,000 technologies, including high-yielding, disease-resistant, and climate-resilient crop varieties.
NARO’s innovations have bolstered the productivity of Uganda’s staple crops, such as coffee, bananas, cassava, maize, and beans, solidifying the country’s reputation as a leader in agricultural research in the East African region.
Key Achievements Include:
- Coffee Production: Introduction of 10 coffee wilt-resistant varieties since 2007, resulting in a surge in production from 2 million bags in 2005/06 to 8 million bags in 2021. Coffee export earnings hit a record $1.14 billion in 2023/24.
- Maize: Release of 50 maize varieties, including stress-tolerant hybrids, has increased annual production to over 4 million metric tons.
- Cassava: Development of 19 disease-resistant varieties, such as NASE 14 and NARO-CASS 1, has stabilized cassava production, ensuring food security for millions.
- Rice: Adoption of high-yielding rice varieties has doubled productivity, moving Uganda toward 70% self-sufficiency in rice.
- Livestock: Introduction of improved goat and cattle breeds, as well as a groundbreaking anti-tick vaccine with 93.2% effectiveness, has enhanced livestock farming.
Regional Collaboration and Future Goals
The summit underscored the importance of collaboration among African nations to expand agricultural research, strengthen seed systems, and promote climate-smart farming practices. President Museveni called on member states to prioritize science and technology as tools for fostering food security and economic growth.
“This summit is a crucial step toward achieving sustainable development for Africa. By working together, we can scale up innovations that address climate challenges, improve nutrition, and empower farmers across the continent,” he said.
With Uganda’s agricultural sector employing the majority of its population, the President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting research and innovation as pathways to a prosperous and resilient future.
The newly adopted CAADP Strategy and Action Plan is expected to guide Africa’s agricultural transformation efforts over the next decade, emphasizing the role of science and innovation in securing the continent’s economic and social progress.
