As Uganda seeks to benefit from higher export volumes and earnings, there is growing pressure to rapidly increase the number of certified organic farmers, which currently stands at over 404,246.
Data from Uganda's National Organic Agricultural Movement (NOGAMU) reveals that fewer than half a million farmers, with established value chains, produce less than $200 million in export earnings. To scale up the sector, NOGAMU's CEO, Chariton Namuwoza, shared that efforts are underway to accelerate the certification process for organic farmers in collaboration with the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS). Streamlining this process is seen as a way to foster growth and sustainability in Uganda's organic sector.
“This partnership will also improve training and capacity-building for farmers, helping them meet the standards required for organic certification. As a result, more producers will be able to access premium markets, contributing to economic development in rural areas and beyond,” Namuwoza explained. The organic sector currently contributes 17.1% of Uganda's agricultural export value, with key exports including fruits, coffee, cocoa, vanilla, and an increasing demand for organic vegetables and cereals.
“This sector is not only boosting farmers' incomes but also promoting sustainable agricultural practices. With growing global consumer awareness, Uganda has the potential to further expand its organic market and attract more international buyers,” added Namuwoza. The country now has 280,282 hectares of land dedicated to organic farming, with about half a million certified organic farmers. Organic goods account for 17.1% of Uganda's agricultural export value.
Sunday George, an official from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, emphasized the government's commitment to easing the process of expanding organic farming and export volumes. “We are doing everything we can to streamline certification procedures to support the growth of organic production and export,” George said. He also highlighted the importance of organic products in maintaining soil fertility, reducing pollution, and improving health. "The National Organic Agriculture Bill 2022 is expected to further strengthen the performance of this sub-sector," he added.
Uganda’s organic movement is a key player in Africa’s organic agricultural industry, advocating for chemical-free food and environmentally friendly practices that preserve the natural food supply. Zahra Muhammed of Sulma Foods Limited emphasized the need for more farmers to engage in organic production, especially through the participatory guarantee system (PGS). This system is a locally-focused, bottom-up quality assurance approach that actively involves producers, consumers, and other stakeholders.
During the first week of November, the annual National Organic Week will bring together farmers, the government, and international markets to discuss key issues and drive forward the expansion of Uganda's organic sector.