- Small-scale farmers in Uganda reaffirm their dedication to agroecology.
- Call for increased government support, investment, and policy integration.
- Farmers emphasize the protection of indigenous seeds and food systems.
At the 6th Annual National Organic Week (NOW) 2024, smallholders in Uganda declared their renewed commitment to agroecology and organic farming.
Despite challenges like competition from inorganic producers and high certification costs, farmers expressed optimism.
Ugandan Farmers Rally for Agroecology and Environmental Sustainability
Ugandan small-scale farmers have renewed their commitment to agroecology and organic farming practices during the 6th Annual National Organic Week (NOW) 2024. These methods, they argue, are crucial for preserving indigenous seeds, promoting food sovereignty, and improving resilience to climate change. The forum, hosted by ESAFF, gathered farmers, policymakers, and civil society groups, highlighting the central role of organic farming in sustainable development.
Farmers called on the government to increase support through policy initiatives like the National Organic Agriculture Policy (NOAP) and to finalize the National Agroecology Strategy (NAS). They emphasized the importance of investing in agroecological extension services to build farmers’ capacities and improve access to organic certification through Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS). Greater consumer awareness and market development were also seen as critical in promoting organic products.
While facing numerous challenges, including competition from inorganic producers and inadequate infrastructure, Ugandan farmers continue to lead efforts in agroecology. They seek policies that protect their rights to land, water, and seeds, while resisting chemical-intensive agricultural practices. Farmers also expressed the need for a curriculum that trains extension service providers in agroecological principles to expand these practices across the nation.
The declaration also focused on forming stronger partnerships between farmers, civil society, and government to promote organic farming and agroecological solutions. Farmers believe that these partnerships are essential for scaling agroecology and creating a healthier, more resilient food system in Uganda. Through such collective efforts, they hope to overcome the pressures of chemical farming and environmental degradation.
Ugandan smallholders have taken a bold stand to push forward agroecology and organic farming, reflecting their vision for a more just and sustainable agricultural system. Their collective commitment seeks to protect the environment and future generations through biodiversity conservation and climate resilience.
“We reaffirm our dedication to agroecology and organic farming as sustainable pathways to achieve food security and sovereignty,
