In a move aimed at enhancing food security and fostering economic growth, a new value addition seed plant was inaugurated today under the Rukiga Indigenous Community Seed Bank in Rwabatungu village, Noozi parish, Rwamucucu sub-county, Rukiga district.
The launch of this seed plant is part of a broader initiative by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF)’s Uganda Multisectoral Food Security and Nutrition Project (UMFSNP) to address malnutrition and food insecurity in the region.
Julius Twinamasinko, the National Project Coordinator for UMFSNP, called upon farmers in Rukiga district to plant quality seeds that yield nutritious crops. He emphasized the critical role of nutritious crops in combating malnutrition and food insecurity, noting that the new plant would also tackle the persistent issue of seed mismanagement.
“Engaging in growing nutritious crops will address the challenges of malnutrition and food insecurity in our area. This plant will also help overcome the problem of seed mismanagement, ensuring a supply of nutritious food in Rukiga district,” Twinamasinko said.
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The initiative has received strong support from local leaders that triggered it’s inception, including the Rukiga Member of Parliament, Hon. Roland Ndyomugyenyi Bish among other Rukiga District Leaders. Hon. Ndyomugyenyi highlighted the importance of recognizing indigenous seeds for their high yield and ability to ensure food security, which had been previously neglected.
“This project introduces a new dimension in recognizing that indigenous seeds are high-yielding and essential for food security. The people of Noozi have preserved these seeds, making the area a food basket for the entire district,” Hon. Ndyomugyenyi remarked. He pledged ongoing support to ensure the machinery remains operational and praised the government and the Ministry of Agriculture for their efforts to promote agriculture in Rukiga.
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Atuyamba Alexander, the founder of Lets Change my Village and the Rukiga Indigenous Community Seed Bank, expressed his commitment to supporting local farmers. He explained that the project was initiated to help farmers with their farming practices and reduce dependence on external inputs by storing indigenous seeds for timely planting.
“I started this project to support farmers and address the challenge of external inputs. By introducing and storing indigenous seeds, we hope to see all villages thrive,” Alexander stated.
The Uganda Multisectoral Food Security and Nutrition Project, supported by the World Bank and funded by the Global Agriculture and Food Security Program, aims to ensure food and nutrition security across Uganda. Launched in 2016, the project operates in 15 districts, including Rukiga, working towards a food-secure and nutritionally healthy Uganda.
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