The Government of Uganda has today signed a Host Country Agreement with the Centre for agriculture and Biosciences International (CABI), formally granting the organization a permanent institutional presence in the country. The agreement was signed by Hon. Gen. Odongo Jeje Abubakhar on behalf of the Government, and Mr. Morris Akiri, Executive Director, Africa, on behalf of CABI. Mr. Akiri was accompanied by Dr. Monica Kansiime, Regional Director; Mrs. Christine Alokit; and Dr. Nasib Mugwanya of the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO).
CABI is a science-based, intergovernmental, not-for-profit organization established in 1928 under a UN treaty framework, with recognition by both the United Nations and the Commonwealth. Uganda has been a member since 1995, collaborating closely through the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) and NARO. The signing follows Uganda’s ratification of the CABI Instrument in 2025 and the completion of all legal processes, including clearance by the Attorney General. The Agreement paves the way for CABI to establish a Country Office in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area, transitioning from a project-based presence to a permanent operational footprint.
In his remarks, Gen. Odongo Jeje emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership in addressing Uganda’s long-standing agricultural constraints, particularly the need to restore and expand access to international markets such as the European Union. He underscored the urgency of improving standards, strengthening farmer guidance systems, and enhancing value chains to ensure Ugandan produce meets global sanitary and phytosanitary requirements. CABI’s mandate aligns with Uganda’s development priorities, focusing on poverty alleviation through increased agricultural productivity, environmental protection using nature-based solutions, knowledge transfers to farmers and extension workers, and inclusive value chains targeting women and youth.
Mr. Akiri reaffirmed CABI’s commitment to deepening collaboration with Uganda, noting ongoing initiatives including an EU-funded €8 million programme aimed at strengthening regulatory systems, building capacity for plant health, and establishing a Centre of Excellence at Entebbe International Airport. He further highlighted innovations such as cold chain logistics to support farmers in preserving produce quality for export markets. The establishment of CABI’s office is expected to enhance Uganda’s export competitiveness, improve food security through programmes such as PlantwisePlus, and provide local institutions access to global scientific expertise. Both parties expressed optimism that the Agreement will unlock new opportunities for investment, research, and technical cooperation, marking a significant step in Uganda’s journey toward sustainable agricultural transformation and economic growth.
