Uganda marks world food day with focus on sustainable farming

16 October 2025, 19:49

By Lucky Patrick

Uganda has joined the world in commemorating World Food Day, with national celebrations held this year in Kabarole District. The central message emphasised that farmers must increase food production without harming the environment.

Minister Tumwebaze calls for ecosystem protection

Presiding over the event, Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze stressed the urgent need to protect wetlands and other fragile ecosystems to safeguard long-term food security.

He pledged increased government support to local authorities to facilitate agricultural development at the grassroots level. Tumwebaze added that the ministry is committed to providing more resources, including vehicles and extension support, to districts to help scale up food production sustainably.

Despite the celebratory mood, sobering statistics highlighted the challenges ahead, showing that nearly 29% of Ugandan children under five are stunted—a direct result of persistent malnutrition.

Speaking at the event, Emmanuel Rutsimba, Head of the World Food Programme (WFP) in the South-West Region, described the figures as alarming. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) also emphasised the need for collaboration across sectors.

This year’s World Food Day theme—“Better Production, Better Nutrition, a Better Environment, a Better Life”—served as a reminder of the interconnectedness of food systems, human health, and environmental sustainability.