The National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) was recognized as the Best Government Institution at the 32nd National Agricultural Show, which concluded on July 5, 2026, in Jinja, Uganda. The Uganda National Farmers Federation (UNFFE) presented the award during the event’s closing ceremony, citing the organization’s contributions to agricultural research and the development of technologies intended to support the country’s transition toward commercial farming.
The annual exhibition, held from June 26 to July 5, 2026, served as a platform for government agencies and private sector participants to demonstrate advancements across the agricultural value chain. According to the evaluation committee, chaired by Mr. Benjamin Isabirye, NARO stood out for its effectiveness in disseminating scientific solutions and its commitment to improving productivity.
Agricultural Innovation and Research Highlights
During the event, NARO showcased a diverse portfolio of research outputs designed to address specific challenges in Ugandan agriculture. These innovations spanned climate-smart practices, pest management, and post-harvest value addition. Key exhibits included a newly developed anti-tick vaccine and advancements in the coffee value chain, alongside specialized solutions for semi-arid farming systems.
The organization also introduced a black rice variety, noted for its nutritional and health benefits. Other highlights included:
- Forestry innovations and improved crop varieties with enhanced yield and nutritional profiles.
- Mechanization technologies.
- Climate-smart agricultural practices designed to increase resilience.
- Value-added products derived from banana crops.
The evaluation committee noted that the quality of these exhibitions reflected the country’s growing capacity in agricultural production, research, mechanization, value addition, climate-smart agriculture, and agro-industrial development.
Government Policy and Future Agricultural Strategy
Minister of State for Agriculture, Hon. Desire Muhooza, presided over the closing ceremony, emphasizing the government’s objective to move smallholder farmers from subsistence-based models to commercial production. This strategy aligns with the broader national vision articulated by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni regarding the modernization of the agricultural sector.
Hon. Desire Muhooza highlighted the necessity of strengthening agricultural extension services, stating that the ministry plans to deploy ‘battalions’ on the ground to ensure farmers receive technical support and to establish a dependable feedback mechanism to guide policy and interventions. The ministry is also exploring the establishment of regional agricultural exhibition spaces to replicate the impact of the Jinja Agricultural Show across the country.
During the ceremony, the minister directed the National Coffee Research Institute (NaCORI) to urgently develop mechanisms to address the growing national demand for coffee seedlings. Furthermore, NARO launched the Next Wave: Seeds of Wealth initiative. This campaign focuses on the Busoga and Bukedi sub-regions, aiming to bolster the economic security of coffee farming communities through research, innovation, and improved access to quality planting materials.
Ongoing Educational Initiatives
While the National Agricultural Show has concluded, activities at the Jinja Show Grounds continue with the Education Show, which runs from July 6 to 11, 2026. This follow-up event is held under the theme: “Youth-Driven Innovation: Growing the Future of the Agricultural Industry.”
The Education Show seeks to inspire young people to embrace agriculture through innovation, agribusiness, and practical learning.