Namulonge, Uganda, 11th April – The Eastern Africa Grain Council (EAGC), in partnership with the National Crops Resources Research Institute (NaCRRI) and Danida Green Business Partnerships (DGBP), has today championed the sustainability of food systems in Uganda and climate-smart agriculture for inclusive trade and wealth creation at its 13th annual agribusiness expo hosted at NaCRRI in Namulonge.
This year’s expo comes at a time when farmers across Central Uganda prepare for planting season, creating an essential opportunity for knowledge exchange on improved agricultural practices and value addition. EAGC has expanded its reach, drawing farmers and stakeholders from multiple regions, underscoring Uganda’s growing dedication to sustainable agriculture and regional trade. The expo showcased a dynamic exhibition arena, cutting-edge machinery displays, B2B networking opportunities, and hands-on training sessions designed to empower farmers with the tools for success.
In his keynote address, Hon. Frank Tumwebaze, Minister for Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, emphasized the importance of collaborative platforms in addressing sector challenges: “We are keenly aware of the many challenges our farmers, agripreneurs, and value chain actors continue to face. This is why expos such as this are invaluable. They serve as hubs for knowledge exchange, technology transfer, partnerships, and the showcasing of innovations that can transform how we farm, process, trade, and add value to our agricultural produce.”
The expo showcased advanced agricultural technologies that help farmers improve productivity and adapt to climate change. Highlights included mechanized equipment to reduce labor and boost yield, improved seed varieties offering higher resilience to pests and climate variability, and innovations in animal nutrition that support healthier, more productive livestock.
In his remarks on EAGC’s Executive Director, Gerald Masila, stated, “Adopting climate-smart technologies and sustainable agricultural practices is not just a necessity but a catalyst for economic growth and food security in our region. This expo reflects our continued commitment to empowering farmers with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in an ever-changing environment.”
Over 20 companies took up exhibition stands to display and sell climate-smart technologies, offer expert advice, and engage directly with more than 1,000 farmers in attendance. This platform for knowledge sharing and business networking underscores EAGC’s goal of driving innovation and investment in the agriculture sector.
Dr. Titus Alicai, Director of Research at NaCRRI, described the Agribusiness Expo as a critical platform for disseminating knowledge, innovations, and best practices developed by NARO through research that is both demand-driven and aligned with industry needs. “This event brings together a wide array of stakeholders, including farmers, industry players, extension officers, cultural leaders, and policymakers, to connect, share experiences, and foster collaboration,” he said.
Dr. Alicai emphasized that by enabling meaningful knowledge exchange and networking, the Expo plays a key role in scaling up the adoption of improved practices and technologies. It also helps to address real-world agricultural challenges and paves the way for new partnerships that support sustainable growth across the sector.
Looking ahead, EAGC and its partners reaffirm their dedication to supporting farmers and agribusiness stakeholders in adopting sustainable practices and market-oriented solutions. The Council invites agricultural innovators, technology providers, and agribusinesses to showcase their solutions at upcoming expos and engage with the farming community to foster inclusive growth and resilience in Uganda’s agricultural sector.
