Kampala, Uganda: Hon. Frank K. Tumwebaze, Minister of Agriculture of Uganda, has urged African leaders to swiftly move from planning to implementation of the new Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) strategy. Addressing the opening session of the CAADP Summit in Kampala, Minister Tumwebaze emphasized the urgency of action, stating, “We must move, not with the times, but ahead of times.”
The Summit, being attended by high-level dignitaries including Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda, and Amb. Josefa Sacko, African Union Commissioner for Agriculture, marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of African agriculture. The gathering aims to finalize and adopt the “Kampala CAADP Agenda 2026-35,” the successor to the Malabo Declaration.
Minister Tumwebaze, who chaired the process of developing the new CAADP strategy, acknowledged the significant contributions of various stakeholders, including the Bureau of the Specialized Technical Committee on Agriculture, the African Union Commission, and numerous regional and national actors. He highlighted the extensive consultative process that involved farmers’ organizations, the private sector, civil society, and academia.
“This document that I will be presenting to you during that session is your document,” Minister Tumwebaze emphasized, urging delegates to engage in open and candid discussions on the strategy and action plan.
The Kampala CAADP Agenda 2026-35 places a strong emphasis on advancing technological research and practices, building resilient agricultural systems, and promoting agro-industrialization. It recognizes the critical need to address climate change, food security, and poverty reduction within the African context.
Minister Tumwebaze also called for the expedited operationalization of the five Regional Animal Resource Seed Centers of Excellence, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation in advancing agricultural development.
“We need to expedite this process in those regions where this remains outstanding,” he urged, calling for swift action from member states to conclude the necessary Memoranda of Understanding.
The Summit will also feature a vibrant exhibition showcasing advancements in agricultural research and technologies, providing a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration among stakeholders.
As the Summit unfolds, the focus will shift from planning to concrete action. The success of the Kampala CAADP Agenda will hinge on the commitment of African leaders to translate ambitious goals into tangible outcomes that improve the lives of millions of people across the continent.
