The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Gen. Odongo Jeje Abubakhar, today received Letters of Credence for Mr. Ezana Getahun Kassa, the newly appointed Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to Uganda, at a ceremony marked by cordial engagement and shared commitment to sustainable development.
Welcoming the FAO envoy, the Minister underscored agriculture as the enduring backbone of Uganda’s economy and livelihoods, a reality shared across many developing countries. He noted that while Uganda continues to pursue modernization of its agricultural sector, it remains equally committed to preserving indigenous knowledge systems and traditional practices that have sustained communities for generations.
The Minister highlighted the growing urgency of climate adaptation, pointing to shifting weather patterns and their implications for food security. He emphasized the need for balanced approaches that integrate innovation with cultural sensitivities, particularly in areas such as biotechnology. While acknowledging the potential contribution of modern agricultural technologies, including genetically modified organisms (GMOs), he stressed that their adoption must be carefully considered within Uganda’s socio-economic and cultural context. “Uganda seeks to improve productivity while safeguarding what is uniquely ours,” Hon. Odongo Jeje stated, adding that partnerships with institutions such as FAO are critical in navigating these complex transitions.
Reflecting on Uganda’s natural endowment, Hon. Odongo Jeje described the country’s equatorial climate as a strategic asset for year-round agricultural production, even as climate variability presents emerging challenges. He reiterated Government’s commitment to coordinated, cross-sectoral collaboration to ensure sustainable agricultural transformation and resilience. In his remarks, Mr. Kassa expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded to him and reaffirmed FAO’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s development priorities. He commended Uganda’s favorable climate and agricultural potential, describing the country as a strategic partner in advancing regional food security.
Mr. Kassa further emphasized that agriculture cuts across multiple sectors and ministries, and requested facilitation to engage broadly across Government institutions beyond the Ministry of Agriculture. In response, the Minister welcomed the proposal, affirming that Uganda remains open to collaborative engagement, provided that coordination is undertaken through established diplomatic channels.
The meeting concluded with both parties expressing a shared commitment to strengthening cooperation, enhancing technical partnerships, and advancing sustainable agricultural development for the benefit of the Ugandan people.
