Promoting agroecology in Uganda through poetry
FORT PORTAL CITY, April 22, 2025 – In a move to promote agroecology across Uganda, the Eastern and Southern Africa Small-scale Farmers’ Forum Uganda [ESAFF Uganda], in partnership with Humundi, launched the Schools Agroecology Poem Writing Competition in 2023.
Now in its third year, this annual initiative invites schools nationwide to engage students in advocating for environmentally friendly farming practices through art and creativity. The competition continues to inspire young minds to champion agroecology using poetry as a powerful medium for environmental awareness and advocacy.
Speaking at the launch of the third edition held at Karambi Primary School in Fort Portal City on Thursday, Adrine Atwine of ESAFF Uganda highlighted the initiative’s vital role in nurturing young voices in agroecology.
“The annual Schools Agroecology Poem Writing Competition offers a platform for learners across the country to express their creativity, passion, and commitment to agroecology, nature, and sustainable farming,” she said.
Atwine emphasised that engaging learners from an early age lays the foundation for a sustainable and innovative future. She noted that the competition acts as a springboard for young people to become agroecology ambassadors within their schools and communities, empowering them to raise awareness and share their ideas for sustainable food systems.
This year’s competition is open to both primary and secondary school students, with particular focus on members of school nutrition and agroecology clubs.
According to Atwine, the contest follows a four-tier structure, beginning with intra-school competitions and advancing through district, regional, and national stages. She encouraged budding poets to explore a wide range of agroecological themes, including climate justice, organic farming, and the rights of smallholder farmers.
She also underscored the importance of adhering to competition guidelines, particularly in terms of originality, appropriate language, and submission criteria.
“The competition not only celebrates young poets but also encourages the next generation to contribute meaningfully to the fight against climate change through creativity and education,” Atwine added.
ESAFF Uganda, with support from Humundi and the Agroecology Fund, collaborates with organisations such as IIex de Paix [IDP], Kabarole Research and Resource Centre [KRC] Uganda, and Joint Effort to Save the Environment [JESE] under the Feed Good Programme. Together, these organisations are working to integrate agroecology into school curriculums in Western Uganda and beyond.
Eric Oteba, Nutrition Programmes Manager at KRC Uganda, expressed optimism about the impact of the initiative.
“I’m thrilled to be working collectively to empower learners in promoting agroecology. When students are empowered, they become agents of change, spreading agroecological knowledge within their communities,” he said.
He stressed the shared responsibility to equip future generations with the knowledge and skills required to build a sustainable, food-secure Uganda.
The theme for the third edition of the competition is “Agroecology for Healthy Communities.”
David Ruhbaihayo, Head Teacher of Karambi Primary School, praised the initiative as both timely and inspiring.
“In an era where the health of our planet and the wellbeing of our communities face increasing challenges, agroecology presents a vision of sustainability, working in harmony with nature while blending traditional wisdom with modern science,” he said.
“Poetry has long been a powerful tool for expression, advocacy, and change,” he added.
ESAFF Uganda’s Schools Agroecology Poem Writing Competition continues to shine as a beacon of hope on the path toward sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship. Agroecology remains a key pillar in the quest for food security and climate resilience in Uganda.
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