Bulindi ZARDI joined the rest of the world in commemorating World Food Day, an annual event dedicated to raising awareness and inspiring action toward ending hunger, improving food security, and shaping the future of sustainable food systems. This year’s national celebrations took place at Rwebitaba Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute, Kyembogo Station in Kabarole District, bringing together government officials, development partners, agricultural experts, institutions of learning, and farming communities.
The event was held under the theme “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future”, a call for unity in addressing the challenges facing global and national food systems. A major focus of the celebrations was on strengthening food and nutrition security in the face of growing climate pressures and economic challenges.
Speaking as the Chief Guest, Hon. Frank Tumwebaze, Minister of Agriculture, emphasised the urgent need to protect vital ecosystems such as wetlands. He noted that conserving these natural resources is essential for resilience and long-term food production. In his remarks, Mr. Emanuel Rutsimba, Head of the World Food Programme (WFP) for the South-West Region, underscored the need for stronger collaboration in tackling malnutrition, reducing food waste, and addressing the rise in diet-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
He highlighted the concerning statistic that about 25 percent of children under the age of five in Uganda are stunted, largely due to malnutrition, an indicator of the persistent nutritional challenges facing the country. The event featured lively exhibitions showcasing agro-machineries, improved crop varieties, and value-added products proven to be climate-resilient and nutrition-sensitive. These innovations demonstrated ongoing efforts by research institutions and partners to support farmers and communities with technologies that enhance productivity and improve dietary outcomes.