Uganda will join the world in marking the 45th World Food Day (WFD) on 16 October 2025, with national celebrations set for Rwebitaba Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute (ZARDI), Kyembogo Station in Kabarole District.
The event was announced on Wednesday by Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), Hon. Frank Tumwebaze, during a media briefing at the Uganda Media Centre.
“This year’s theme, ‘Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future’, calls on all Ugandans – farmers, researchers, policymakers, civil society, and the private sector – to work together to improve our agrifood systems for the benefit of people and the planet,” Minister Tumwebaze said.
The minister highlighted that the 2025 WFD celebrations coincide with the 80th anniversary of the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), praising the long-standing partnership between Uganda and FAO.
The choice of Rwebitaba ZARDI is strategic, explained Tumwebaze, noting that the institute is a hub for agricultural research in crops like tea, coffee, bananas, and innovations in agroforestry and pasture improvement.
“Hosting WFD here allows us to showcase how research-driven innovations directly improve the livelihoods of farmers and communities,” he said.
The event will include tree planting, school garden establishment, market clean-ups, and community dialogues where farmers, traders, and stakeholders will discuss ways to improve food production, reduce post-harvest losses, and enhance nutrition.
Addressing the persistent challenge of food insecurity and malnutrition, Minister Tumwebaze emphasized that World Food Day should go beyond celebration.
“We need ‘Voices of Change’ in our communities. It’s not enough to talk about producing food; we must also focus on managing, distributing, and consuming it sustainably,” he said.
According to the minister, over 70% of Ugandans rely on agriculture, yet challenges like low productivity, climate change, and limited market access persist.
“This theme reinforces the need for collaboration to improve food security, nutrition, and livelihoods,” Tumwebaze added.
The minister highlighted how the WFD theme aligns with Uganda’s Parish Development Model (PDM) and Agro-Industrialisation priorities under NDP IV, which aim to shift farmers from subsistence to market-oriented production.
“An economically empowered population has a choice in what they consume. Working hand in hand ensures that we build a better food future for every Ugandan,” he said.
Innovations on Display
During the celebrations, Rwebitaba ZARDI will unveil new crop varieties, including Irish potato, millet, and banana, for commercialization and community uptake.
The event will also highlight interventions in animal feed security, seed systems, post-harvest management, and combating malnutrition.
Minister Tumwebaze urged all Ugandans to embrace the spirit of collaboration, ensuring that WFD becomes a springboard for sustained action.
“Let us make this 45th World Food Day not just a celebration, but a platform that transforms lives and secures our food future,” he said.
