MUKONO, June 27, 2025 –– The National Agricultural Research Organisation [NARO] has partnered with the Korea International Cooperation Agency [ KOICA ] to support farmers in strengthening the fresh fruit and vegetable production chain in Uganda.
The collaboration will involve joint funding and research across all stages of the production process, with the aim of improving seed systems, an essential component in increasing yields, boosting farmers’ incomes, and ensuring national food security.
Speaking on behalf of plant breeders at the National Crop Resources Research Institute [NaCRRI] in Kawanda, Wakiso district recently, Dr Gabriel Ddamulira reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to advancing food security and agricultural productivity through innovative breeding programmes.
“At NaCRRI, we are committed to developing high-quality, resilient vegetable varieties that meet the needs of both farmers and consumers. Our breeding programmes focus on addressing local agricultural challenges by empowering farmers with improved seed systems and sustainable practices,” Ddamulira stated.
He provided updates on the ongoing breeding of six key vegetable crops: nakati, chilli, pepper, tomato, pumpkin, and onion. He emphasised the importance of seed multiplication, maintaining disease-free planting material, and factoring consumer preferences into breeding strategies.
Representing the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries [MAAIF], Isaac Wammatsembe highlighted the significance of variety certification procedures in guaranteeing the quality of seed production.
He urged breeders to register their plant varieties during the development process to safeguard intellectual property and avoid future disputes.
“Everyone has a role to play in variety development. For us to achieve our desired outcomes, breeders must ensure proper documentation and registration of their material during the development process,” he said.
KOICA Project Manager, Prof Dr Yeoung Young-Rog, praised the impact of the Vege-Seed Project in transforming Uganda’s vegetable production sector.
“This project plays a critical role in strengthening Uganda’s seed value chain and reducing reliance on imported vegetable seeds,” he noted.
With around 78 percent of Uganda’s population engaged in agriculture and an annual production of approximately 5.3 million tonnes of fresh fruits and vegetables, enhancing the national seed system is vital for improving yields and achieving food security.
The engagement with plant breeders reaffirmed the shared commitment of NaCRRI, MAAIF, and international partners to improving Uganda’s vegetable seed sector. Through innovative breeding, enhanced certification processes, and collaborative initiatives, the project aims to increase agricultural productivity and support the livelihoods of farmers across the country.
https://thecooperator.news/korea-and-the-afdb-strengthen-drive-towards-africas-food-security/
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