UNFFE launches sh35b 16-storey Farmers Tower in Nakasero

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The Uganda National Farmers Federation (UNFFE) has unveiled plans to construct a 16-storey National Farmers Tower in Nakasero, Kampala, a landmark project valued at sh35 billion and aimed at strengthening institutional capacity while generating sustainable income for farmers across the country.

The project was launched on Monday (December 29) during UNFFE’s 33rd Annual General Assembly held at the federation’s headquarters along Nakasero Road.

According to UNFFE president Dr Dick Nuwamanya Kamuganga, the tower will serve as a permanent institutional home for the federation while creating a steady revenue stream through commercial rental space to support farmer programmes nationwide.

“This is a farmers' investment. The income generated from this building will go back to supporting farmers through training, advocacy and improved service delivery,” Nuwamanya said.

The planned tower will be constructed on Plot 27, Nakasero Road, where UNFFE is currently housed. The existing structure will be demolished to pave the way for the new development once construction begins.

Delegates at the assembly were presented with an artistic impression of the modern tower, which is expected to become a prominent feature in Kampala’s central business district.

The President of the Uganda National Farmers Federation, (UNFFE) Dr Dick Nuwamanya Kamuganga showing the proposed UNFFE building. (Photo by Ronnie Kijjambu)

Founded in 1992 under the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), UNFFE is the national umbrella body mandated to identify, mobilise, organise and represent farmers’ interests in Uganda. The federation operates through district and regional farmer associations across all four regions of the country.

Nuwamanya said the tower project forms part of UNFFE’s long-term strategy to reduce reliance on donor funding and enhance financial independence through income-generating assets.

“This building will help stabilise the federation financially and ensure continuity of farmer-focused programmes, even in periods when external funding is constrained,” he said.

Beyond office and commercial space, the Farmers Tower is expected to host a central agricultural data and knowledge hub.

UNFFE treasurer Daudi Mukiibi Byekwaso, who also serves as chairperson of the Wakiso District Farmers Association, said the building will function as a national data centre for Uganda’s agricultural sector.

“For any information concerning agricultural production in Uganda, whether dairy, crop farming or livestock, this will be the reference centre,” Byekwaso said.

He added that the facility will improve coordination among farmer organisations, policymakers, researchers and private sector players.

Representatives from district farmer associations welcomed the project, describing it as a milestone in strengthening farmer ownership of national institutions.

David John Odyek, chairperson of the Alebtong District Farmers Association and representative of Northern Uganda, said the tower symbolises the growing voice and organisation of farmers.

“For a long time, farmers have relied on external support. This investment shows that farmers can build sustainable institutions that serve their own interests,” Odyek said.

Immaculate Nansamba, chairperson of the Kiboga District Farmers Association and central region representative, said the project will particularly benefit women farmers through improved access to information and coordinated services.

“Many women farmers struggle to access markets and information. A centralised farmers’ institution will help close these gaps,” Nansamba said.

UNFFE said the tower will also provide space for stakeholder engagement, training programmes and national dialogues on agriculture, agribusiness and rural development.

Construction timelines and financing arrangements will be communicated after completion of procurement processes and regulatory approvals.

The launch of the Farmers Tower comes at a time when agriculture remains the backbone of Uganda’s economy, employing the majority of the population. UNFFE leaders said investments in farmer-owned infrastructure are critical to strengthening the sector’s contribution to economic growth, food security and household incomes.

“This tower is not just a building,” Nuwamanya said. “It represents farmers’ confidence in their future and their commitment to building strong institutions for generations to come.”