Minister Tumwebaze Challenges Scientists to Focus on Farmer Livelihoods

Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze has called upon local scientists to center their research efforts on practical solutions that directly uplift farmers’ livelihoods. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for a new research and management complex at the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) institute in Kikyusa, Mukono District, the minister stressed the need for tangible outcomes.

The event also marked the official handover of the construction site to the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC), the commercial arm of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, which has been tasked with executing the project.

Minister Tumwebaze highlighted that government investments in physical and technological infrastructure are deliberately designed to empower researchers to tackle real-world challenges. He noted that the true value of agricultural research must be measured by its ability to enhance on-farm production and build resilience against changing weather patterns.

According to the minister, agricultural success heavily relies on the availability of superior seeds and improved livestock breeds. He warned that substandard planting materials and weak animal breeds severely undermine output, whereas climate-resilient varieties help farming communities withstand unpredictable environmental shifts.

Furthermore, Tumwebaze acknowledged President Museveni’s ongoing commitment to integrating scientific research and innovation into national planning and budgeting frameworks. As construction gets underway, the success of the new facility will ultimately be judged by the effectiveness of the technologies it produces and how well those innovations reach the ordinary Ugandan farmer.

Read more details on the Nile Post.