By Buwule Joseph Mary
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gen. Odongo Jeje Abubakhar, has officially received Letters of Credence from Ezana Getahun Kassa, the newly appointed Country Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to Uganda, in a ceremony marked by cordial engagement and a shared vision for sustainable development.
During the meeting, Hon. Odongo Jeje emphasized the central role of agriculture as the backbone of Uganda’s economy, sustaining millions of livelihoods and driving national growth. He noted that while Uganda is advancing efforts to modernize the sector, it remains equally committed to preserving indigenous knowledge systems and traditional farming practices that have supported communities for generations.
The Minister also highlighted the growing urgency of climate adaptation, pointing to shifting weather patterns and their increasing impact on food security. He called for balanced and inclusive approaches that harmonize innovation with cultural sensitivity, particularly in the adoption of emerging technologies such as biotechnology.
While acknowledging the potential benefits of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in boosting agricultural productivity, Hon. Odongo Jeje stressed the need for careful consideration within Uganda’s socio-economic and cultural context.
“Uganda seeks to improve productivity while safeguarding what is uniquely ours,” he said, underscoring the importance of strategic partnerships with institutions like FAO in navigating complex agricultural transitions.
Reflecting on Uganda’s natural advantages, the Minister described the country’s equatorial climate as a key asset for year-round agricultural production. However, he cautioned that climate variability continues to pose new challenges, requiring coordinated, cross-sectoral responses to ensure resilience and sustainability.
In his remarks, Mr. Kassa expressed gratitude for the warm reception and reaffirmed FAO’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s agricultural transformation agenda. He commended the country’s favorable climate and vast agricultural potential, describing Uganda as a strategic partner in advancing regional and global food security.
Mr. Kassa further noted that agriculture intersects with multiple sectors and ministries, and requested facilitation to engage more broadly across government institutions beyond the Ministry of Agriculture. In response, Hon. Odongo Jeje welcomed the proposal, affirming Uganda’s openness to collaboration, provided that engagement is conducted through established diplomatic channels.
The meeting concluded with both parties expressing a strong commitment to deepening cooperation, strengthening technical partnerships, and advancing sustainable agricultural development for the benefit of the Ugandan people.