.On August 14, 2024, Uganda hosted the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Lesotho, Rt. Hon. Sam Matekane, at the National Agricultural Research Laboratory (NARL) in Kawanda, marking a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations. The visit focused on fostering collaboration in the agricultural sector, an area identified as having immense potential for mutual growth and development.
Prime Minister Matekane highlighted the importance of unity in addressing shared challenges in agriculture, emphasizing the broader benefits of the partnership.
This collaboration is not just about increasing agricultural output; it’s about fostering unity and mutual growth. Together, we can tackle common challenges and explore new avenues for sustainable agricultural development,” he said.
The Prime Minister expressed optimism about the partnership, particularly in leveraging Uganda’s advanced agricultural research capabilities, providing opportunities for Knowledge Sharing and Innovation.
Lesotho has much to gain from NARO’s advanced laboratories, including training opportunities for our people and the adoption of climate-smart technologies like bananas, which have struggled to grow in our country, he stated.
Dr. Yona Baguma, Director General of the National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO), echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the potential for knowledge exchange between the two nations.
At NARO, we have made significant strides in agricultural research, particularly in developing resilient crop varieties and value addition. Our team of world-class scientists and breeders is eager to share these advancements with our brothers and sisters in Lesotho while also learning from their experiences,
Dr. Baguma remarked.
The visit included an exhibition of NARO’s cutting-edge agricultural technologies, showcasing value addition techniques for potatoes, cassava, maize, rice, and palm oil, as well as new high-yield bean varieties. These innovations underscored the potential for collaboration in agribusiness, particularly in developing value-added products for industries and exports.
The partnership between Uganda and Lesotho aims to create synergies that will drive agricultural productivity, improve food security, and contribute to Africa’s broader development goals. This collaboration represents a shared vision for leveraging agricultural innovation to uplift communities and strengthen ties between African nations.