Uganda urged to turn research into food security solutions
Officials called for greater investment in agricultural innovation and adoption of research-based technologies to strengthen food security and improve nutrition.
Uganda's agricultural sector is facing significant challenges, including food insecurity, climate pressures, pests, diseases, and food contamination, according to officials and development partners. During World Food Day celebrations in Mbarara City, a strong call was made to move agricultural research out of laboratories and into the hands of farmers. The focus is on ensuring that innovations are accessible and usable to boost production, enhance resilience to changing weather patterns, and improve household incomes.
Minister Tumwebaze specifically urged agricultural extension workers to help farmers understand and implement practices that can improve their resilience to changing weather. The Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations highlighted that despite advances in agricultural science, hunger remains a global challenge, with millions facing food insecurity and unaffordability of healthy diets. The FAO stressed that scientific advances must translate into practical improvements for people's lives.
Innovations such as digital advisory services, early-warning systems, and improved farming practices can significantly help farmers increase production and adapt to climate change. However, their impact is limited when confined to research institutions. The FAO advocates for stronger cooperation among governments, researchers, businesses, and farming communities to make agricultural innovations accessible, affordable, and suited to local needs, contributing to better production, nutrition, environment, and life for all.
Why it mattersFarmers are affected by the need to adopt new research-based practices to improve their resilience to climate change and increase production.