President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has welcomed the Director General of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, H.E. Qu Dongyu, for high-level discussions aimed at strengthening Uganda’s agricultural sector.
The meeting took place at State House, Entebbe, and marked a significant step forward in reinforcing Uganda’s partnership with the FAO.
In his remarks, President Museveni highlighted the central role that FAO continues to play in transforming agri-food systems, particularly in developing countries. He reiterated Uganda’s commitment to agricultural development as a national priority, emphasizing that the sector remains the backbone of the economy and a vital source of livelihood for millions of Ugandans. The President assured H.E. Dongyu of his full support and cooperation to ensure seamless collaboration between Uganda and the FAO.
During their engagement, the two leaders explored ways to deepen cooperation in several key areas including sustainable agriculture, enhanced food security, and value addition in agricultural production. They also discussed strategies to strengthen income security for farmers, improve nutrition outcomes, and promote hygiene all of which are essential pillars for the socio-economic transformation of rural communities.
H.E. Dongyu commended Uganda’s consistent support and dedication to the FAO’s initiatives. He reaffirmed the organization’s readiness to back Uganda’s development agenda, particularly by supporting investment in modern farming techniques, climate-resilient agriculture, and agri-business innovation. “Uganda has significant potential for rapid agricultural growth and rural development,” the FAO chief noted.
The Director General was accompanied by a high-level FAO delegation that included Mr. Maximo Torero, Chief Economist; Mr. Abebe Haile Gabriel, Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Africa; Ms. Lineo Molise, Regional Coordinator for Africa; and Mr. Shen Hong, Assistant to the Director General.