Organizers:
- National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) Uganda
- Caritas MADDO (Masaka Diocesan Development Organisation)
- Muteesa Royal University (MRU)
We aimed this seminar at promoting sustainable agricultural practices and land use, Strengthen rural development through community-based initiatives and fostering collaboration between academia, research institutions, and development organizations.
Major Outcomes:
- Knowledge Sharing and Capacity Building:
- NARO showcased innovations in agro-industrialization, including improved crop varieties and climate-resilient farming techniques
- Caritas MADDO presented successful models of community empowerment through cooperatives, gender-sensitive development, and climate action projects like the ERI initiative (Enabling Rural Enovation)
- Community Empowerment Initiatives:
- Caritas MADDO highlighted its work in forming and strengthening farmer cooperatives, improving market access, and promoting savings and credit schemes for rural households
- Field experiences from projects like the Rakai Women Group and Nsimbo Farmers Cooperative demonstrated tangible improvements in livelihoods and resilience.
- Collaborative Research and Innovation:
- MRU emphasized the role of academic institutions in supporting sustainable development through research and student engagement.
- NARO reaffirmed its commitment to integrating indigenous knowledge with scientific research to address local agricultural challenges
- Policy and Advocacy:
- Discussions included the need for supportive policies to enhance seed quality assurance, climate adaptation, and rural infrastructure.
- Stakeholders advocated for stronger partnerships between government, NGOs, and universities to scale successful models.
- Environmental Sustainability:
- Caritas MADDO’s initiatives in distributing energy-efficient cookstoves and promoting agroforestry were recognized as key strategies for reducing deforestation and improving household health.
