Uganda to mark World Food Day with focus on malnutrition and sustainable agriculture

UGANDA – Uganda will join the world in commemorating the 45th World Food Day on October 16, 2025, with national events set for Rwebitamba Agricultural Research and Development Institute in Kabarole District. 

The celebrations will run under the theme “Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future,” and will also mark the 80th anniversary of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

The Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Hon. Frank Kagyigyi Tumwebaze, said the commemoration must go beyond speeches and lead to real action on food and nutrition security.

“We cannot continue talking about food production without addressing how we manage what we already have,” Tumwebaze said. 

He urged government, the private sector, civil society, and communities to work together to reduce food waste, improve diets, and respond to the challenges of climate change.

Although Uganda is often described as the region’s food basket, one in four children under the age of five still suffers from stunting linked to poor nutrition. Tumwebaze noted that food security cannot be judged only by the availability of meals.

“Better food means safe, nutritious, and affordable meals that ensure healthy growth, strong immunity, and productivity. It’s not just about eating enough, it’s about eating right,” he said.

Climate challenges and research solutions

The minister connected food insecurity to shifting weather patterns, pointing out the need for farming approaches that can withstand droughts and floods. 

He called for the use of drought-tolerant crops, soil conservation, and other sustainable methods to protect livelihoods. He also stressed that food insecurity can fuel conflict, making it not only a health concern but also a matter of peace and stability.

As part of the celebrations, activities such as tree planting, school gardens, market cleanups, and dialogues with farmers and traders will take place across the country. Tumwebaze said these actions are meant to keep the spirit of World Food Day alive long after the event.

A major highlight will be the release of new crop varieties by the ministry and the National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO). These include improved Irish potatoes, millet, and bananas designed to withstand drought, increase yields, and improve nutrition. 

“The delivery of ideas conceived in laboratories into real solutions for farmers” is how Tumwebaze described the development.

The focus on nutrition comes at a time when regional reports show rising food insecurity in East Africa, driven by prolonged dry spells and economic pressures. Experts say that beyond production, countries must invest in reducing food loss, diversifying diets, and expanding school feeding programs. 

Uganda’s emphasis on both community activities and scientific innovations shows an attempt to balance immediate needs with long-term resilience.

Tumwebaze closed his remarks with a call to collective action. “The first requirement for peace is food security,” he said, urging every Ugandan to take responsibility for a more secure and healthier future.

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