Govt looks to equip large-scale farmers with machinery to boost exports

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Agriculture minister Frank Tumwebaze has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to support large-scale farmers in increasing productivity for export, focusing on food, animal feeds, security crops, and import substitution.

Under this initiative, Tumwebaze revealed that the government will not only assist rural farmers but also equip commercial farmers with the necessary machinery to enhance production and promote agro-industrialisation.

He made these remarks during the closing ceremony of the 37th National Agricultural Show at the Source of the River Nile in Jinja city on July 5, 2025.

Uganda Prison's Dr. Generous Behabura in charge of animal nutrition, breeding, and records (R) showing Dr Anna Rose Ademun and others a locally ideal innovation of rearing chicken and vegetables in a small space. (Photo by Jackie Nambogga)

The nine-day event, held under the theme ‘Technological innovations driving farm wealth,’ was organised by the Uganda National Farmers Federation (UNFFE) in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF).

The minister observed that some large-scale farmers lack essential machinery such as tractors, and exposure to such exhibitions enables them to identify suitable equipment for their operations.

“Government is having this initiative to specifically address all the farmers in their needs so that each one, at their level, is pushed up,” he said.

His speech was read by Dr Anna Rose Ademun, the commissioner for animal health at MAAIF. Tumwebaze also highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to foster agro-industrialisation through research, innovation in climate-resilient and highly productive seeds, improved breeding stock, and the development of agro-industrial parks.

He noted these initiatives will open up regional and international markets by creating a conducive environment that promotes agriculture as a business, rather than merely a tradition.

While agriculture was once mainly associated with the elderly in rural areas, Tumwebaze said the sector now employs about 70% of the country’s population, including many youths, providing income and food to both local and international markets.

He added that many young people have embraced agriculture as a viable economic activity, moving away from the pursuit of white-collar jobs, as it supplies raw materials to the industrial sector, which is a major foreign exchange earner.

This, he said, is why the government places a strong emphasis on agriculture as a key pillar of socio-economic transformation.

Despite Uganda’s abundance of food crops and livestock, Tumwebaze stressed the importance of value addition, citing the breakthrough export of powdered milk to Algeria as a significant source of income.

Meanwhile, Tom Ocitti Oryema, general secretary of UNFFE, said the show allowed farmers to witness firsthand potential modern technologies and practical innovations aimed at transforming Uganda’s agriculture into a profitable and competitive sector.

He said the event exceeded expectations as farmers, who are custodians of Uganda’s food system, stewards of the land, and drivers of rural development, gained invaluable exposure.

The Uganda Prisons Service was named the overall best exhibitor for exemplary innovation, sustainable practices, quality products, and alignment with the event’s theme.

The National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) was recognised as the best government agency for providing science-based solutions to agricultural challenges by developing improved crop and livestock technologies.

The Banana Industrial Research and Development Centre (BIRDC) was awarded best in value addition.

Hydroline Irrigation Firm received recognition for delivering effective, climate-resilient alternatives for water use, enabling farmers to produce crops annually.

Simlaw showcased a diverse range of high-quality seeds adapted to Uganda’s agro-ecological zones, with a strong emphasis on farmer productivity and resilience.