Overview:

Museveni emphasizes the crucial role of science in transforming Africa's agricultural sector at the African Union summit in Kampala.

President Yoweri Museveni has called on African leaders to prioritize scientific research in agriculture, emphasizing its critical role in transforming the continent’s agricultural sector.

Speaking at the African Union summit on agriculture and food security in Kampala, President Museveni stressed that scientific research is key to developing innovative solutions to the challenges facing Africa’s agricultural sector.

“Through scientific research, we can ensure good quality seeds, improve crop yields, and enhance resilience to diseases and drought,” President Museveni said. “I urge all African leaders to prioritize investment in scientific research and development to drive agricultural transformation.”

The President’s comments come as African leaders gather to discuss ways to boost agricultural production and reduce reliance on food imports. Africa spends $68bn annually on food imports, and the AU wants to reduce this bill by increasing domestic production.

President Museveni cited Uganda’s National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) as an example of the impact of scientific research on agriculture. NARO has developed over 1,000 technologies and innovations, including high-yielding and disease-resistant crop varieties.

The African Union’s Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) aims to boost agricultural production and reduce poverty. Delegates at the summit are discussing ways to improve access to markets, finance, and technology for farmers.

The summit is being attended by leaders from across the continent, including Angola’s President Joào Lourenço, Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye, and Ethiopia’s President Taye Atske Selassie.

As the summit continues, leaders are expected to adopt a declaration outlining their commitment to transforming the agricultural sector and achieving key objectives, including developing resilient and sustainable agricultural systems, expanding trade within Africa, and ensuring food security for 2.5 billion Africans by 2050.