Residents of Rubanda District have been urged to adopt plant-based diets as a way to combat non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and protect the environment. The appeal was made by Bob Niwamanya Rumanzi, Director of the Vegan Village Society, during the second annual Vegan Village Society Festival held at Kashongati Primary School, Kishanje Parish, Bufundi Sub-county.
The festival, which attracted numerous farmer groups, focused on the benefits of veganism. Rumanzi emphasized that plant-based diets require less cooking time and firewood, reducing deforestation and mitigating climate change. He noted that veganism could also significantly reduce the prevalence of NCDs, including diabetes and hypertension, which are leading causes of death in Uganda.
“Switching to plant-based diets is not just about individual health. It’s about protecting our forests, fighting climate change, and building healthier communities,” said Rumanzi.
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Mary Byasigaraho, a diabetic patient and member of a local vegan farmers’ group, shared how adopting a plant-based diet has improved her health. “Doctors recommended eating vegetables, and I’ve seen a big change. Beyond that, vegetables have become a reliable source of income and food for my family,” she said.
Sayuni Medius Nyikiriize, another farmer, highlighted the economic advantages, explaining that vegetable farming requires minimal land but yields high income. “Vegetables are affordable to grow and sell, making them a sustainable option for smallholder farmers,” she said.
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The Vegan Village Society Festival, first held in December 2023 at Bufundi College Kacerere, aims to raise awareness about the health and environmental impacts of poor feeding habits. Organizers hope to encourage more communities to embrace veganism for sustainable living and improved well-being.
The event also featured demonstrations on vegetable farming techniques, cooking methods, and health screenings. Organizers plan to expand the festival to other sub-counties in the district next year.
