Uganda has marked World Food Day 2026 with a renewed call for increased investment in agricultural research, digital technologies and climate-smart farming to strengthen food security and improve farmers’ livelihoods.
The celebrations, held at the Mbarara Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute, MBAZARDI, brought together more than 3,000 stakeholders under the theme, “Innovate Today, Nourish Tomorrow.”
The Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Frank Tumwebaze, who was the guest of honour, emphasized the need to bridge the gap between scientific research and farming communities, saying innovations must translate into practical solutions for farmers.
Tumwebaze called for a balanced approach to agriculture that promotes food security, income-generating crops, animal feed production and environmental protection. He also congratulated MBAZARDI on marking 100 years of agricultural research and innovation.
Meanwhile, the World Food Programme’s Head of the South-West Region, Emmanuel Rustinda, warned that the anticipated El Niño conditions between October and December 2026 could reverse gains made in the fight against hunger and malnutrition, stressing the importance of early action and climate-resilient farming.
Rustinda also revealed that between 30 and 40 percent of food is lost between harvest and the market due to poor handling and storage, calling for stronger market linkages and improved post-harvest management.
The four-day celebrations featured agricultural exhibitions, technology demonstrations, farmer clinics and specialised training in banana, coffee and dairy production.
By Magala Alex
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