'Uganda to become agribusiness investment destination'

Jean Kaahwa is Africa's agricultural ambassador 2015. He shared his experience and lessons from the agriculture summit in Berlin Germany with Jackie Nalubwama.

Welcome back from Berlin, Germany. How long was the summit?

It was a one-day summit.

What was the theme for the summit?

The theme was agribusiness in Africa, partnering for growth, which growth is more inclined towards a private sector-driven agenda.

What were the presentations at the summit about?

The presentations were about the way forward for agribusiness in Africa.

What did you learn from the summit?

I learnt a lot from the showcased success stories of agribusiness enterprises in Africa and other parts of the world.

I also learnt a lot from the perspectives of major players in the world's agriculture sector and also from icon African leaders like Joaquim Chissano, former Mozambique president.

How do you hope to implement the lessons you learnt?

I got to know of successful agribusiness concepts and operations in various parts of the world that are incorporating simple and affordable technology, as well as efficient practices that have enabled agribusiness enterprises prosper.

I therefore intend to incorporate what I learnt in my enterprises as well as train other farmers to adopt these tried and tested practices; such as using climate smart technology to make informed agribusiness decisions.

What will Uganda benefit from your being Africa’s AGCO agriculture ambassador?

Being the moderator of the event, Uganda received a lot of mention and a number of people I interacted with asked about Uganda and the possibility of investing in agribusiness.

I will take every opportunity to market our country as an agribusiness investment destination and also create collaborations that contribute to development of our agricultural sector.

Did any donor agencies commit themselves to improving or supporting agriculture in Africa? If so, how will they do so, with technical support or monetary?

I like the fact that our African icons stressed that Africa is not seeking aid. So gladly, a number of collaborations were initiated which I believe is the way forward for Africa.
 

Tell me what it means to you, personally, to be Africa's agricultural ambassador

It was a great honor to be the AGCO Africa Ambassador and I intend to promote agricultural development in Africa, especially youth engagement in agribusiness.

Related

Kaahwa is Africa agriculture ambassador