Gov’t commit to give farmers quality seeds

By Nasser Kasozi Akandwanho

The ministry of agriculture animal husbandry and fisheries has made a commitment to ensuring that Ugandan farmers have access to high-quality seed to boost the sector and improve food security.

Hon. Vincent Bamulangaki Ssempijja, the Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, said on Tuesday during the National Seed Policy and Seed Strategy Dissemination meeting that was held at the Kalungu district headquarters.

The meeting was organized by the agriculture ministry in partnership with the Integrated Seed Sector Development Uganda to sensitize district agricultural officers and farmers about the need to implement the policy in 135 districts.

Vincent Ssempijja said agriculture is still the backbone of Uganda’s economy, employing over 70% of the population.

Ssempijja said the seed industry in Uganda is private sector-driven but is regulated by government agencies such as the National Agricultural Research Organisation, which is responsible for the production of early generation seed, while the department of crop inspection and certification is responsible for the regulation.