ESAFF – Uganda awarded pupils from Kasese and Mbale schools that emerged winners of the 1 st Edition of the Schools Agroecology Poem

   BY SYLIVIA NAMUWANGA 

Promoting agroecology and its farming practices in Uganda has not been embraced by many farming

communities, especially the small-scale farmers of which many have been highly adopting conventional

farming practices which in most occasions depend more on the application of inorganic and synthetic

fertilizers that are harmful to soil, environment and human health.

The failure to adopt agroecology farming practices in the Country has been attributed to lack of

information and awareness on how small-scale farmers can practice agroecology. To avert the

situation, Eastern and Southern Africa Small-scale Framers’ Forum (ESAFF) Uganda a farmer-led

organization has come up with a public awareness initiative that targets both small-scale farmers and

the younger generation

.

 ESAFF Uganda initiated the 1 st edition of the Schools Agroecology Poem Writing Competition 2023 to create a broader awareness and appreciation of agroecology in secondary and

primary schools in all regions of Uganda and most importantly members of Agroecology Clubs.

The Small-scale farmers’ organization is empowering young generation and the public through the

formation of Agroecology Clubs in various learning institutions in the country that has empowered the

younger generation with accurate information about agroecology.

 

To Entice the younger generation to embrace agroecology, ESAFF Uganda embarked on the National Schools Agroecology Poem Writing. Competition 2023 where Rock Primary School from Kasese district and Vision High Secondary School from Mbale district emerged as the  winners at primary and secondary levels respectively. The best young poets were awarded with bursaries and other gifts.

Nancy Mugimba the ESAFF  National Coordinator Awarding Wanyenya Esther from  Vision  High School Mbale  

Among the pupils and students that were awarded bursaries and certificates being best in the Schools

Agroecology Poem Writing Competition include Tumwijukye Victor of P.6 from Rock Primary School who emerged as the overall winner of the competition followed by Agaba Morgan of P.5 from Rock Primary

School who emerged as the 1st runner-up while Achen Sylivia from Otubet Primary School in Amuria

district emerged as the 2 nd runner up at the primary level. At the secondary level, 

Wanyenya Esther of S.2 from Vision High Secondary School in Mbale emerged as the best in the competition with  Nyirambabariye Peruth of S.3 from Kisoro was the 1 st runner up and Odyek Ambrose from Maruzi Seed Secondary School in Apac emerging as the 2 nd runner up.

Speaking at the awarding ceremony Masudio Margret, ESAFF Board Vice Chairperson, commended Rock Primary School and Vision High Secondary School adding that ESAFF Uganda is willing to work with

schools to enable learners to be empowered with information related to agroecology. She commended

the proprietors for accepting to work with ESAFF Uganda towards promoting agroecology farming

practices in the learning institutions.

"Participating in the Schools’ Agroecology Poem Writing Competition highlights the school exceptional

leadership and performance and we hope that the skills that were imparted to the learners will help

them in understanding agroecology as the most sustainable farming practice". She Said.

Speaking on behalf of the school Mr. Khaukha Milton, the Head Teacher of Rock Primary School

expressed his gratitude to ESAFF Uganda for organizing the competition, emphasizing its importance in guiding pupils towards addressing critical issues not only in Uganda but throughout Africa.

"Involving children from the primary level is a paramount strategy for revitalizing our dwindling

ecological system, while promoting agroecological farming practices, and mitigating the impacts of

climate change" He said

Ms. Pangani Beatrice, the Chairperson ESAFF Kasese pledged the organization s willingness to work with the Agroecology Clubs in schools.

“Through these clubs, it’s the only way through which organic farming and agroecological practices can

be promoted as the practice plays a key role in mitigating climate change which is becoming a global

issue. It’s through the adaptation of agroecology that we can restore our environment and ensure food

security” She said.

At Vision High Secondary where a student was awarded with bursary for excelling in the competition,

the Head Teacher of the school Mr. Nangosya Jude applauded ESAFF Uganda for choosing the School to

be part of the few that the farmers' organization is supporting in running the Agroecology Club.

“We are happy to be chosen out of the many schools. Grooming the young generation through

agroecology is essential as they are the change makers” He said.

Speaking at the awarding ceremony, Nancy Mugimba the National Coordinator of ESAFF Uganda

applauded the learners for participating in the 1 st Edition of the Schools Agroecology Poem Writing

Competition and promised to further support the school with improving their Agroecology Library.

 Shefurther highlighted that there will be more competitions such as debates and quizzes for the students and urged the pupils to participate once the competitions are open.

Making her keynote address, as the Patron of the Agroecology Club at Rock Primary School in Kasese

district, Madam Mary Gorett Ithungu requested ESAFF Uganda to provide more support to the club by

providing information on making organic pesticides and manure and other relevant information on

Agroecology to help lure more pupils to the club.

In Mbale district, Mr. Obonyo Sam, the Patron Vision High Secondary School Agroecology Club

expressed his gratitude to ESAFF Uganda for organizing the Poem Writing Competition that has brought agroecology sensitization to their school.

“This has helped us agriculture teachers because the club members now know more about agriculture

and its practices. We will continue to support all the activities of the Agroecology Club in the school”. He

noted.

Venture more in Agroceological Farming practices for the good of public Health and Environment, Local farmers haven Advised.

 BY  SYLIVIA NAMUWANGA

 Ugandan Farmers have been told to resort  to Agroecological farming practices  such as the use   of organically farming inputs  such as locally produced fertilizers , pesticides as way to boost organically produced Agricultural products which are more healthier and  highly demanded both on  local and International markets .

Farming groups especially the Small holder farmers say the system is environmentally friendly and less costly compare to the Conventional Ones where a lot of inorganic farming inputs are highly used.

To ensure that farmers embrace the production systems many interventions have been initiated by farming associations such as the Eastern and Southern Africa Small Scale farmers Forum (ESAFF) and other farmers groups especially those that units Small Scale farmers across the Country. For the last four years the forums have been organizing. The Annually National Organic Week since 2019.

 According to Hakim Baliraine the National Chairperson, ESAFF Uganda said that they use the Week to share best farming experience related to Agroecology farming practices.

Farmers practicing  Agroecology  , the farming practice save the Environment

 “Since 2019, ESAFF Uganda has been organizing the National Organic Week to raise awareness among the public on consumption of organic products and the contribution of organic farming towards the production of healthier food and also as a pillar in combating climate change” The chairperson said.

 Baliraine added that currently many Ugandan are Consuming foods that are highly contaminated with Chemical residues which is big threat to the health of many Uganda and the global at large.

 “With Agroecology farming practices this can be eliminated at the production level by farmers since Agroecology practices are safe” He supported the Adaptation of the farming practices.

 It’s on this Back ground that yet again, ESAFF Uganda has organized the 5th National Organic Week (NOW) 2023 which will aim at informing the wider public about the importance of organic farming and consumption of organically produced foods as well as encouraging uptake of organic farming practices among small scale farmers This year’s theme will be focusing on the promoting of Agroecological farming techniques and healthy foods.

 Over the past ten years, global output and trade of organic agriculture have grown exponentially. Global market opportunities, particularly in industrialized nations like Europe and North America, shifting consumer preferences toward safe and hazard-free organic food, rising environmental consciousness, and the health risks associated with agrochemicals are a few of the main factors driving the growing interest in organic agriculture.

 Uganda's agricultural system is essentially organic by nature due to the relatively low use of foreign inputs like inorganic fertilizers and pesticides. Chemical fertilizers are among the least used in the globe, despite the fact that their use is rigorously regulated for plant protection.

 According to the players in the Agricultural Sector, This situation presents a tremendous potential for organic agriculture to develop and sustainably produce more food in order to increase food security and farmer revenue Farmers.

“In the heart of every farmer, the National Organic Week leaves a lasting imprint. It's a time when we reflect on the true essence of our craft, nurturing the land, and tending to the roots of sustainability. This week reminds us that the choices we make today, in support of organic farming, will bear fruit for generations to come. It's not just a celebration; it's a commitment to our planet's health and the legacy we leave behind in conserving our environment.”- Mr. Hakim Baliraine, National Chairperson, ESAFF Uganda added.

 The 5^th  National Organic Week which will run from the 25^thSeptember 2023 and ends on the 29^th aims at increasing awareness on Agroecological farming production systems and accelerate the uptake of these in the wider farming community, increase awareness of organic products and their benefits among the consumers, position indigenous seed varieties as the best adaptation strategy to address the impacts of climate change and to provide a platform for dialogue between policy makers and small scale farmers on how to sustainable organic and biological farming methods and products directly meet the agricultural and environmental challenges.

 The week-long event will be celebrated in Soroti, Gulu, Masaka, Lira, Amuru, Amuria, Adjumani, Kisoro, Kasese, Mbale, Kamuli, Jinja and Mityana and will include community dialogues, radio talk shows, engagement with Agroecology Clubs in Schools and the 5^th National Organic Dialogue as the climax event.

Strengthen Land Area Committees to Enable Execute their Duties, Local Leaders tells Government.

 BY SYLIVIA NAMUWANGA  

Land Actors at the lover Local Government Level have asked Government to Strengthening land governance institutions in the Country which they say it may play vital role in mitigating Land Conflicts across the Country.

 To achieve that the government should invest in building strong and transparent land governance institutions. This includes providing adequate resources, training, and capacity-building for the responsible agencies, such as the Land Registry, Land Management Units, and Area Land Committees (ALCs).

   This was raised by Lower Governments Leaders from West Nile region during an Induction Workshop that was organized by Eastern and Southern Africa Small Scale Farmer Forum {ESAFF} Uganda in partnership with the Ministry of Land Housing and Urban Development for the Area Land Committee members of Warr and Logiri sub-counties in Zombo and Arua respectively on land administration and management that was held in Nebbi Town recently.

Speaking during the induction workshop, the Warr sub county Local Council III chairperson there experiencing a lot of Land Conflicts in his Sub county because the people who are supposed to offer technical guidelines especially when it comes to the Lands that were leased many years ag are have not been supported by the Government to execute their duties.

Local Government Leaders attending  the Training  in Nebbi Town 

Land is a key resource that is essential to the development of the economy, society, and culture of small-scale farmers and land actors. Land is very important in the West Nile sub-region for its potential for agriculture as well as for the livelihoods and identities of its residents.

However, land conflicts in the farming communities of the West Nile sub-region have been persistent and complex posing significant challenges to sustainable development and community harmony. These conflicts arise from various factors, including historical, social, economic, and political dynamics, and often result in disputes over land ownership, boundaries, and usage rights.

 

 Speaking at the same Induction Some ALC noted that the farming communities are not aware of the Land Rights Laws and this has exposed them to Land Conflicts with Investors in the region.

“For us we didn’t know anything about the charges on the land inspection during the registration of land for acquiring certificates of land ownership but now we are aware of it and we are going to effectively collect it” Nen Charles Oyikuru, ALC Chairperson Warr Sub-county.

It's on this ground that we applaud the Civil Societies and the Ministry of Lands that have empowered us with some skills on Land Issues.

 Speaking on behalf of the Civil Society during the Training, Ronald Bagaga the Research and Policy   Officer at ESAFF Uganda said Government Should Look for resources to ensure that these technical people at the Lower Government Levels are empowered.

“As farming Organization, we believe in Equity; Government should ensure that Local Communities are empowered with all the information relating to Land governance and Management and this will curtail Land Conflicts related issues that are becoming rampant in the country,” said Ronald Bagaga.

Denis Obbo, the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development   Spokesperson, said it’s not their mandate to finance the ALCs because that responsibility is delegated to the Ministry of Local Governments.

According to the Land Act, 1998, the Area land committees are supposed to assist the board in an advisory capacity on matters relating to land, including ascertaining rights on the land in the Country.

Budibugyo District Schools and Town Council gets Sanitation Facilities

 BY Environment News Writer 

The Ministry of Water and Environment Officials led by the Assistant Commissioner Sewerage Services Division; Engineer. Dr. Felix Twinomucunguzi handed over completed sanitation facilities to schools and Bundibugyo Town Council.

 The hand over was part of the technical inspection and supervision of Bundibugyo Water Supply and Sanitation Project under which a number of  Two 5-Stance lined VIP institutional toilets and One Public Water borne toilet were constructed and handed over to Bundibugyo Demonstration School, Bumadu Primary School and Bundibugyo Town Council respectively

Bundibugyo Water Supply and Sanitation Project scope of works included

1. Construction of a water office

2. Construction of 4 No. 5 stance lined VIP Institutional toilets

3. Reservoir tank (1000cubic meters)

4. Treatment plant

5. 30 public stand posts and 1000 promotional yard tap connections

6. Laying of a treated water gravity transmission mains

7. Laying of distribution and intensification pipes.

8. 1 Public Water borne toilet

9. Construction of a river intake and raw water gravity mains.

The construction works are being undertaken by Vidas Engineering services Co.LTD is under the supervision of SARI Consulting Ltd and the progress is currently at 80%.

The Bundibugyo water system is being implemented by the Ministry of Water and Environment through the Strategic Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Project (STWSSP) under Urban Water Supply and Sewerage  Department. The Project is being financed by the African Development Bank secured by the Government of Uganda.

Bundibugyo Town Piped Water Supply and Sanitation System will serve a minimum of 118 villages. 26 villages in Bubukwanga sub county, 17 in Bukonzo sub county and 32 in Bundibugyo Town Council among others.

Farmers asks Uganda to Amend the Plant Variety Protection Act to suit their interests.

By Samuel Nabwiiso

Small Scale Farmers in Uganda under their umbrella’s movement the Eastern and Southern Africa Small-scale Farmers’ Forum (ESAFF) - Uganda Chapter are calling upon Government to review some of the Agricultural Regulations that are not friendly with the rights of Small-Scale farmers.

The regulation that farmers want to be amended is the plant Variety and Protection Act which farmers say it only favour plant bleeders and Seed Companies and this has deprived their rights as Small Scale farmers who are the majority producers of foundation seeds in the Country.

farmers argue that the current Law does not allow them to register their indigenous Seeds varieties with the Ministry of Agriculture because majority cannot meet the Conditions as their prescribed in the Law.

"As Ugandan  farmers we joined  the rest of the World to commemorate the World Food Day/Week on the 16th/October 2022,  But Small scale farmers observed with concern that the National seed regulations i.e. the Plant Variety Protection Act among others regulations in the Country are generally focusing only on the so-called private sector seed companies of which their capacity to meet the National  seeds demand is still lower formal sector only produces  20% of the Nation’s seed's on an annual basis. This legal framework does not provide policy support for the production and distribution Of Agricultural inputs by small-scale farmers ,yet the National Seed Policy (2018) recognizes that the informal seed system is strategic in conserving the biodiversity and meets 80 percent of the Agricultural inputs requirements in Uganda" Said Ronald Bagaga the Head of Policy and Research at ESAFF-Uganda   in an Exclusive Interview with the Environment News Uganda.

Hakim Baliraine the Chairperson of ESAFF -Uganda explaining to the prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja  about their call on Regulation amendments 

He said that without protecting Small Scale farmer's to own their Indigenous seeds rights this may expose the Country to food Insecurity because many local farmers cannot afford to buy seeds produced by the private Sector and this may hinder the Country not to achieve this year's World food  Day theme  which was celebrated  under the theme  ‘Leave NO ONE behind.”

In 2014, Uganda passed the Plant Variety Protection Act ("the Act") with the aim of providing for the promotion of development of new plant varieties and their protection as a means of enhancing breeder's innovations and rewards through granting plant breeders’ rights.

Why Government is not recognizing seeds produced by Small Scale Farmer’s? According to the policy officer, Government argues that that these traditional and unimproved farming Agricultural farming inputs varieties produced by the Small-Scale farmers may not meet the standard regulations as their prescribed in the Law because of their genetic and phenotypic diversity characteristics that can make them more resilient to local Agro-ecological conditions.

 He added  that over depending on farming inputs produced by the private Sector is making Agriculture Sector to be more expensive yet the majority players are Small Scale farmers who cannot afford to procure advanced Agricultural inputs such as fertilizers, Agricultural Chemicals among other inputs to support the production of Agriculture products especially in the crop sub sector.

To ensure that Government recognizes indigenous Seed’s, Bagaga said that ESAFF-Uganda, a farming Movement of Small-Scale farmers they have Launched campaign which aimed at advocating for the review of the Plant Variety protection ACT by Government.

"Our request is that Government should repeal some of the regulations that do not favour Small Scale farmers to Own farming inputs farming rights" He requested.

ESAFF - Uganda a farmer led based organization is supporting over 30000 Small Scale farmers in Uganda and it operates in over 50 Districts across the Country.

When asked to comment on the recent Kenya's decision to lift the ban on the Cultivation and Importations of genetically modified organism Commonly known as GMO,Bagaga said its high time for Uganda to pass the Biotechnology Bill this will protect  Small Scale Farmer's in  Uganda and the Country at large from the negative Consequence's that may arise after the Consumption  of GMO products since Kenya shares Border with Uganda.

  "This year’s world Food was Celebrated at a time when one of the East African Community Member   state, Kenya rifting the ban on the cultivation of GMO crops and its importation. As Ugandan farmers,

Kenya whom Uganda share a common boarder and GMO confined field trials on 20 crops of rice, corn, banana, cotton, soybean, potato and sweet potato among others, the decision may not be good to Small Scale farmers in the region because of its economic complications  to the  ordinary farmers in the  East African Community" Bagaga the Policy and Research Officer at  ESAFF Uganda said.

ESAFF Chairpeson showing the pPrime Minister Some of the products Small Scale Famers produces  during the World Food Day  at Namulonge 

Currently most Countries in in the  region are experiencing rising food prices this has led to some Scientists to  advocates for the adoption of Biotechnology which they say  it can save the World from food Insecurity since the products produced through Biotechnology can withstand Climatic Change conditions, however most farmers especially the Small Scale one's who contributes about 73% of the farming communities ,say that introducing GMO it may infringe on farmers rights on access to seeds because GMO seeds involves ownership Rights and also has negative impact on the  Biodiversity which may hinders some Countries like Uganda not to attain Sustainable Development Goals.

"The decision is not vital because of its impacts on the Small Scale farmer's despite the 2022 World Food Day, it is marked against the COVID-19 pandemic, rising food prices and desperation of small scale farmers towards their seed variety rights through registration, biodiversity loss, environmental degradation, and food and nutrition insecurity. These factors, alongside the increasing effects of climate change pose many challenges to small scale farmers to sustain their livelihoods and feed the world “He added.

According to recent UN published report on global food security and nutrition 2022, found that the world is off track and 8% of the population could be facing hunger by 2030, the date initially set by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to achieve one of its primary targets of zero hunger World.

 The report further states that 3.1 billion people globally did not afford a healthy diet, compared to 112 million more than the previous year. In the report, UN FAO Director-General Dr. Qu Dongyu described the 2022 report as ‘a wakeup call’ for the world.

“We need to urgently transform our agri-food systems to be more efficient, more resilient, more inclusive and more sustainable. “He said in the report.

In Uganda, Crop genetics diversity continues to be maintained by small-scale farmers’ fields in the form of farmer varieties yet a few have not been included in the National Variety Lists, which is a precondition for propagation material of these varieties to be produced on large scale.

Hakim Baliraine the Chairperson of ESAFF, -Uganda told Environment News Uganda that they have tried to have dialogue with Government which led to the development of some recommendation that are friendly to Small Scale Farmers but Government has not yet implemented them.

"As farmers Movement's we have tried to work with Government and other development organization such as Oxfam ,NARO ,Biovesity International to develop roadmap for registration of local seeds however the framework has not been implemented by Government we appeal to Government to respect the recommendations that were Agreed on during the meeting between farmers and Government Agencies under Ministry of Agriculture" He said.

According to him, Farmers organization  had an engagement with Government Agencies on Crop inputs  Varieties registration where a roadmap for registration of farmers’ varieties in Uganda was developed to address the gaps in the current seed laws and unanimous action agreed upon to push for Cabinet approval of a draft but this has not been implemented by Government.

"Moving forward, the Government through the National Seed Certification Services under MAAIF instituted a committee to advance the processes for the development of guidelines on farmers’ variety registration and establishing mechanisms for registration at both local and national levels. We are concerned that since its inception, the committee has never operated due to financial constraints as farmers we call on Government to source for financial resources to fund the operationalizations of the Committee.

Farmers   believe that recognizing  their Rights to own seeds  through variety registration will increase the production of farmer seeds varieties, hence  increasing farmer-based seeds  enterprises, income generation from seeds  sales, quality seeds, which may led to increased food production in the Country  and hence improving Nutrition in Uganda and in the region at large and Africa as Continent  which is food insecure.

Farmers believe that Protecting Farmers' rights on seed's Will also reduce farmers’ dependence on patented seeds and expensive fertilizers as well as a reduction on the risks to biodiversity. As Small-Scale farmers we ask Government to create conducive Environment to Small Scale farmers to operate.

 As way forward farmers ate a urging Government to Develop guidelines for the registration of Small Scale farmers produced variety seeds and popularize the guidelines among small-scale farmers.

 Farmers also want Government to reactivate the National Coordination Committee formed in 2018 during the international workshop on registration of farmer Varieties and finance their operations to support small-scale farmers in the process of registering farmer seed varieties.

Lastly the Small-Scale Farmers are also asking

Government to strength small scale farmers groups that are actively conserving biodiversity in Uganda. The famers say, Government should develop guidelines for building stronger linkages between small-scale farmers, community seed banks and the national gene bank.

Uganda’s   Prime Minister  Robinah Nabbanja who officiated at the World Food Day  advised the farmers to Coordinate with the Ministry of Agriculture that will push their demand.

However, in telephone Interview with the minister of Agriculture Animal Industry and Fisheries Frank Tumwebaze said that Small Scale farmers should work with other stake holders in the Agriculture Sector if their concerns ate to be realized.

"Let them consult other stake holders as Government we are ready to receive their petition and also come up with Legal frame work that may suit the interest of our Local farmer's since they plays big role in Agriculture Sect

Invest more resources in Research,EAC Universities are told

 BY SAMUEL NABWIISO

ENTEBBE -UGANDA:  Fighting poverty in the East African Community Member States will not be achieved if institutions of Higher Learning from the Seven Members Economic block do not invest more resources both financial and Human resources in Researches and share data from their findings.

According to policy makers from the region, Institutions of Higher Learning plays big role towards fighting poverty through carrying out researches from which the study findings can guide policy makers to make investment decisions.

"As region we need a lot of data on key sectors such as Education, Health, Transport but the policy makers are not accessing to such information  in the region because less studies have been undertaken by research institution's such as Universities and where research has been under taken, the study findings are not shared among member states in the region which negatively impedes  decision  making" Explained Uganda's State Minister of Education Technology and Sports in Charge of Higher Education Dr.John Chrysostom Muyingo

 The Minister made the alarming statement during the inter-university Council of East Africa meeting held in Entebbe-Uganda on Strengthening Coordination of Collection and Management of Data in Higher Education and University Research in the EAC region. 

The forum brought together stakeholders in higher education including Universities, National Councils of Higher Education, key technocrats from Ministries of Education in EAC Partner States and other research institutions to discuss research coordination for evidence-based policy making.

Muyingo, added by advising Universities in the region to train researchers who are capable to produce quality data that can guide decision/policy makers, the minister observed that many researchers in the region are producing research reports which are substandard and this affects Investment decision making by governments in the region's.

To ensure that there's accurate data concerning the Education Sector in Uganda as guiding tool for proper planning in the Education Sector, Muyingo said the Government of Uganda has embarked on the Education Management Information System which aims at capturing all data on School aged going children.

"This initiative will capture data for learners starting at pre-Primary to Universities as Government we think the data generated from the Exercise will help decision makers to plan for Education sector both at Central level and Local Government's we challenge all the governments in the region to replicate what Uganda is doing to generate accurate data concerning the Education Sector for proper planning. “The minister said.

Participants in Group Photo with the Minister Fourth from the right  on the front low  

Speaking the same event, the Executive Secretary of the Inter-University Council of East Africa, Professor Gaspard Banyankimbona, said the council has also embarked on an initiative with support from development partner organizations to develop Higher Education Information Management Systems.

Professor Gaspard Banyankimbona, making his A dress during the meeting 

"IUCEA and other Regional Higher Educational Organization such as the Education Sub Sahara Africa, Association of the African Universities among other organizations is implementing a protect which aims at mitigating the challenge's most Higher Institutions of Higher Learning are experiencing when it comes to data generation, and security management" He said.

 

 

 

                                                        

Uganda gets, a $1Million medical diagnostic Laboratory

 BY SAMNUEL NABWIISO

KAMPALA-UGANDA -Metropolis Health care limited one of the India s leading medical diagnostic company has officially launched their state of the.  art medical diagnostic Laboratory in Uganda

The Kampala based medical infrastructure which is valued at $1milion   has the capacity to conduct maximum number of sample testing per day.
Avadhut Joshi the Chief Executive Officer International Business, at the Metropolis Healthcare said the medical Laboratory has been equipped with modern medical Laboratory diagnostic equipment’s.
 
"The Kampala based medical diagnostic Laboratory has been equipped with state of the art diagnostic technological equipment’s to deliver best in class patients services since the center also has best qualified staffs to handle the patient’s services “The CEO said during the Launch of the Diagnostic Testing Laboratory in Uganda.

He added that the opening of the Metropolis Medical Laboratory in Uganda will contribute greatly to the Country’s health sector because it is going to create avenues for medical technological transfer since the company will be directly working with the local hospitals and clinicians to ensure that they adopt the usages of modern technologies on the market which is one way of building the country's medical  Human resources as the company has been doing in some countries where  the Metropolis Health care operates.

Dr. Susan Nabadda cutting the ribon during tje opening of the Laboratory 

.Currently on the African Continent, the India’s based Metropolis Healthcare medical diagnostic Health services provider company is currently operating in South Africa, Kenya, Zambia and latest it has opened up its footprint in Uganda.
 
Officiating at the grand opening of the medical diagnostic center in Kampala,the Commissioner for Medical Laboratory Services in the Ministry of Health,Dr Susan Nabadda said the coming on board by Metropolis healthcare devices in Uganda will have positive impact on the country's health sector, she said many Uganda's have been incurring huge expenditure to travel to India for highly specialized medical diagnostic service's but with the coming of Metropolis healthcare services provider all these will be done in Uganda.
 
"This is great achievement for us in the medical sector because the center will offer services here locally this saves time for the professionals to offer quality health services but also it lowers the cost of accessing equality medical services by our patients who have been travelling to India to get quality specialized medical services “She said.

She noted that government diagnostic centers alone cannot offer the required services from members of the public thus the need for the private sector to come on board and support government through establishing medical diagnostic centers across the various parts of the country where the medical diagnostic services are highly demanded.
"As Government we shall support the private sector to ensure that they invest in the country's health sector" She promised.
 
Speaking at the same event, the founder of Metropolis Healthcare Dr Sushil Shah noted that his company will continue investing in those Countries where the demand for quality diagnostic medical services are highly demanded.
 
"Our coming to Uganda was based on our research work where we found that there were some gaps when it comes to access to quality specialised medical diagnostic health services as company we are committed to offer quality medical diagnostic related health services to the general public in Uganda “He said.
In Uganda, Metropolis Healthcare services provider will offer a comprehensive range of about 4000 clinical laboratory tests and profiles used for predication, early detection, diagnostic, screening confirmation and monitoring of diseases.
The diagnostic solutions that will be offered at the center include routine semi specialty and supper specialty domains like Oncology, Neurology, Gynecology Nephrology and many other related medical conditions.

Meet Ugandan IT Innovator who is using IT to change lives of the youth.

BY SAMUEL NABWIISO

Fighting poverty in Uganda will not be achieved if majority of the youth do not embrace Technology Innovations especially in Information and Communication technologies.

According to those who have embraced it their finding it easier to get jobs and also market various consumable goods and services across the global.

 

In Uganda many Ugandan youth have tried to engage in IT innovations and there’s signs of prospering in the Business Industry, the latest one being Ugandan IT innovator Timoth Musasizi

 

Through innovation, Musasizi managed to break all chains to prosper both in business and technology, which he dreams to return to the communities he lives in.

 

At 32 years now, as he is fondly known amongst his business peers, MK Timothy envisions a community full of innovators, new ideas in technology and others that would make a difference in life.

Musasizi bussy in his ITlab

Through his multi-million IT Company Tim Tech Technologies, Timothy has empowered several university graduates with experience and innovative skills.

 

“We had a small facility to host colleagues who were graduating but with limited opportunities to put their dreams into a reality.” He says.

 

Through innovation, the company has stood the test of time, making several innovations that have facilitated business transactions and making life better.

 

Today, he has taken on the responsibility to help more young people make it in life, by providing a platform for them to innovate, speak out, try out and make it happen.

Running an open Technology Centre at Seguku near Entebbe, Musasizi believes this would help several youths discover their potential in different areas of innovation.

 

The Centre that attracts at least 30 to 50 young men and women is run on a probono basis, to facilitate innovation while others discover their different talents and skills.

 

“We want to share the little we have, with the communities and influence those we can to change their lives”. He says, while talking to this publication.

 

Fully furnished like Computers and all the accessories, internet and equipped with latest technology, the centre attracts both school going youths and those who dropped out of education, but deserve another opportunity.

 

It’s from such a centers that Homeduuka, a run-away successful online business outfit was created. The technology has been one key business driver Deeping into the Country’s cash and food economy.

 

Today, Tim Tech Consult has a direct influence in facilitating businesses across Africa with running contracts in Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola, Zambia and an IT Guru in the Philippines to facilitate an all-time inter and intra connect link to different clients and entities in both the private and public sectors.

 

Born to a humble Coffee farming family 32 years ago, in Mbale, Timothy Karubanga Musasizi attended basic elementary education in Eastern Uganda, where he would always find time to hawk bakeries and other simple edibles that groomed his business acumen ship

 

Shortly after finishing High School, Musasizi started a cereal vending business in DR Congo, where he found a Japanese friend Kenji Ekuan, who was an Industrial Designer.

The two traveled together to Japan, from where Musasizi acquired an opportunity to study Communication Engineering

 It’s from Japan, that Musasizi started Tem Tech Consults in 2008, before relocating to Uganda in 2010. In the same year, Musasizi secured a $12m business contract with a Congolese Company that has never allowed him to look back.

 

It’s through his professional references that Tim Tech secured working relationships in Zambia, and Angola to provide their IT Expertise that would bring business into consumers’ homes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Integrate Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS) in the Agricultural systems CSOs ask Government

BY SILVIA  NAMUWANGAI

 Civil Society Organizations are calling upon the government to integrate Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS) in the Agricultural systems because they play an essential role in strengthening Uganda’s food and nutritional security and buffer economic and social shocks that might hit the population due to focusing on limited diversity of crops in communities

Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS) are cultivated, semi-domesticated, or wild plant species, not included in the group of the major staple crops. In most cases, they do not meet the global market requirements and they often represent resilient species and valuable sources of vitamins, micronutrients, and other phytochemicals; a wider use of NUS would enhance sustainability of agro-systems and a choice of nutritious foods with a strategic role for addressing the nutritional security challenge.

According to Eastern and Southern Africa Small Scale Farmers Forum (ESAFF)-Uganda which is implementing the Sowing Diversity=Harvesting Security (SD-HS) program with different pillars among which is strengthening communities' coping strategies by increasing the intake of nutritious food based on local biodiversity and improved NUS management.

 Caption farmers attending the dialogue 

To ensure that farmers   embrace NUS, ESAFF Uganda is undertaking   different initiatives such as organizing cross-generational dialogues among the farming communities across the country. Through these dialogues’ farmers especially the women and youth where they are empowered with traditional Knowledge about NUS through knowledge sharing sessions from different members such the elderly men and women which helps them to understands the social and economic importance of NUS   

 

“The Cross-generational Dialogues are   multi-demographic conversations that bring together key stakeholders like the elders and the youths to discuss the role and usage of the NUS in fighting poverty, hunger and malnutrition in communities.  Because youths are less engaged in agriculture, the Cross-generational dialogues are very resourceful in helping them to come together and share experiences and learn from each other on different ways on how to cope with hunger and malnutrition especially amidst the rampant effects of Climate Change” Says Nancy Mugimba the National Coordinator ESAFF Uganda.

She adds that besides addressing food security, poverty and malnutrition in the community, NUS contribute to improve nutrition, generating income, maintaining ecosystem health, empowering the poor and marginalized, and promoting cultural diversity.

  In Uganda, traditional knowledge about NUS, which is essential for its conservation and preservation, is held by the older generation. The recent population census shows that Uganda is the world’s second youngest country globally with a median age of 15 yet most youths lack adequate information about NUS and its importance. To sustain NUS's role in Uganda’s food system, the young generation needs to be empowered with knowledge and resources to protect and conserve the NUS.

ESAFF Uganda is focusing on the Cross-generational dialogues as they are fundamental in building a collaborative movement of different stakeholders who are actively contributing to address challenges, needs and opportunities related to promoting NUS at local and national levels. Due to these dialogues there has been an increased understanding of NUS across all generations because of the open discussions during the Cross-generational dialogues that enable knowledge sharing.

To ensure that citizens are equipped with the knowledge ESAFF is conducting sessions where policy makers and other different stakeholders meet to discuss the role of government in the conservation and preservation of these species.

These kinds of sessions have played a big role in changing the mindset of the youths from looking at NUS as a poor man’s food to appreciating their contribution in fighting against poverty, hunger and malnutrition in the communities.

Obura Papias a younger farmer from Apac District in Northern Uganda says that youths are still ignorant about these Neglected Underutilized Species because all the information is held by the elders.

 “The elders should not abandon us; we are a stronger generation and all we need is support and knowledge on how to handle our local diversity.” Obura Papias,a young small-scale farmer from Apac district.

Achan Winifred, a small-scale farmer from Amuria district, adds that Cross-generational dialogues are fundamental in building a collaborative movement of different stakeholders who are actively contributing to addressing challenges, needs and opportunities related to promoting NUS at local and national levels.

She adds that there has been an increased understanding of NUS across all generations because of the open discussions during the Cross-generational Dialogues. Oftentimes, the cross-generational dialogues are organized with cookery demonstrations that enable participants to gain both practical and theoretical knowledge on the preparation of the different local food plants.

“Most of the local foods are tactile to prepare, showcasing the preparation procedures to the young generation is mandatory. This is the only way they can learn to get the actual values of these foods.” Achan Winifred is a small-scale farmer from Amuria district.

 Where the Sowing Diversity=Harvesting Security is being implemented, the communities have appreciated the cross-generational dialogues and there is an evident increase in uptake of the NUS considering their nutritional and medicinal values.

 Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, many communities resorted to the NUS as they are famous for boosting the body’s immunity to fight against diseases. Medical practitioners have also encouraged communities to consume local foods due to their nutritiona

 

Invest in access to clean water to avert diseases, A new report suggests

BY SAMUEL NABWIISO

A new report by WHO and UNICEF, released on Global Handwashing Day, reveals that giving everyone in the world’s poorest countries access to handwashing with soap and water, would cost around $11 billion. That would transform the life-chances of people who are currently unable to simply wash their hands at home.

“Millions of lives could be saved and billions of dollars in untapped economic potential could be unlocked for the equivalent of just $1.40 per head of the global population”, says WaterAid.

As G20 leaders prepare to gather in Rome to improve pandemic preparedness, WaterAid warns that government investment must be made to provide handwashing for all as it plays a critical role in the fight against preventable diarrhoeal diseases and respiratory infections

Washing hands with soap and clean  water can reduces the out brake of diseases  

According to latest estimates from WHO and UNICEF, three in 10 people worldwide cannot wash with soap and water at home, and at current rates of progress, 1.9 billion people – families and children – will still be unable to so by 2030.

WaterAid’s own recent analysis in its Mission Critical report, concluded that trillions of dollars could be unlocked over the next two decades through universal access to water, sanitation and hygiene. Achieving this could generate a net benefit of $45bn per year, and even just providing a tap in every household could yield $37bn USD annually.

WaterAid warned  that progress is worryingly slow. For everyone to be able to wash their hands at home by 2030, one of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, governments need to make progress at least four times faster than they currently are. However, the economic value of handwashing for all, alongside water and sanitation services, is vastly underestimated by governments, business and donors, resulting in chronic under-investment.

Investing in water, sanitation and hygiene brings multiple wins for governments, WaterAid says: it is value for money, it helps achieve health targets and it increases productivity to support economic growth. If governments invested in even basic water, hygiene and toilets it would bring a return on investment of up to 21 times the cost.

Small scale farmers are holding their 3rd Annual National Organic Week

BY SAMUEL NABWIISO

Small Scale Farmers in Uganda are holding their 3^rd Annual National Organic Week where farmers especially small holder ones across the country meet and show cases on how  to promote Organic Farming in the Country .   

 Organic agriculture is described as a system that emphasizes environmental protection and the use of natural farming techniques. It is concerned not only with the end-product, but with the entire system used to produce and deliver the agricultural product and many Organic farmers rely instead on natural farming methods and modern scientific ecological knowledge in order to maximize the long-term health and productivity of the ecosystem, enhance the quality of the products and protect the environment.

According to the National Chairman of the Eastern and Southern Africa Small holder farmer’s forum (Uganda Chapter) Hakim Baliraine said that small-scale farmers across the country are subconsciously practicing organic agriculture though need more information on organic markets and enhancing capacity on organic agriculture practices in order to motivate uptake

Baliraine further added that there is a need to sensitize the general public about the many benefits of consuming organically produced foods because of the health benefits it offers to the consumers, he said that there’s also high economic benefits which comes with the farming of organically Agricultural products since the market for such products is available both on the local market, Regionals ones and International   

“Over the last decade, the global production and trade in Organic Agriculture has been expanding exponentially. The unfolding market opportunities globally especially in the developed countries of Europe and North America, shifts in consumer preferences to safe and hazard free organic food, increasing consciousness about conservation of the environment as well as health hazards associated with agrochemicals are some of the major factors for the growing interest in Organic Agriculture” He said.

small holder farmers practicing Organic Farming 

Over time, ESAFF Uganda has been organizing different interventions that aim at promoting seed rights and organic agriculture such as creating awareness and enhancing farmer’s capacities on seed rights and organic agriculture, setting demonstration gardens, farmers seed sovereignty using different approaches. It’s on that note therefore that ESAFF Uganda has organized the 3rd National Organic Week 2021 under the theme: “Go organic, It’s only Natural”

 

During this 3rd Annual National Organic Week (NOW) 2021, ESAFF Uganda has organized different activities such as the National dialogue, tree planting caravan, cookery demonstrations and seed fairs, community dialogues and radio talk shows in different districts.

 The NOW 2021 aims at raising awareness on farmers seed rights and the benefits of locally produced organic food and increase consumption frequency among small scale farmers and other stakeholders and providing a platform for SSFs to engage different stakeholders and exhibit how ecological agriculture systems are a critical solution to the realization and food and nutrition security amidst the climate change crisis.

About, the Eastern and Southern Africa Small-scale Farmers’ Forum (ESAFF) Uganda is the largest small-scale farmer-led policy influencing movement in Uganda. ESAFF Uganda was established to bring together small-scale farmers into a social movement to build common aspirations, learnings and linkages. farmers’ organizations in other 15 countries in eastern and southe