Slow Food Uganda has launched an ambitious two-year project titled “From Farms to Markets: Scaling Agro ecology in East and Southern Africa.” Supported by the Agro ecology Fund (AEF), the project aims to strengthen the participation of agro ecological farmers in local markets while building a global collective of farms producing good, clean, and fair food.
The project officially kicked off at an inception training held at Colline Hotel in Mukono, bringing together Slow Food Farm Accelerators and farm owners from across the region. During the opening session, Edward Mukiibi, the Executive Director of Slow Food Uganda, introduced participants to the foundations of agroecology, its guiding principles, and the evolving concept of Slow Food Farms. He emphasized that these farms play a vital role in expanding agroecological food production and supplying Earth Markets with healthy, sustainable products.
The training also addressed key challenges threatening food systems today, including the use of synthetic chemicals, the rise of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), loss of biodiversity, and the erosion of traditional food cultures. Participants engaged in discussions on how Slow Food Farms can provide transformative solutions grounded in nature-friendly farming.
As part of the practical learning component, farm leaders took part in a hands-on exchange visit to Alwana Natural Farm in Kisoga Town Council, Mukono District. Farm owner Christopher Wali demonstrated proven agro ecological techniques for rehabilitating degraded soils, such as preparing Bocashi, bio-fertilizers, and compost. The interactive session showcased how low-cost, locally available inputs can significantly improve soil health and food production.
During the field visit, Mukiibi further highlighted the strong connection between healthy soils, healthy plants, and human wellbeing. He stressed the importance of animal welfare, the use of herbal remedies, proper vaccination, and sustainable pest management as essential components of resilient agro ecological farming.
The new project marks a significant step toward empowering smallholder farmers, enriching local markets, and protecting the region’s agricultural biodiversity. By strengthening agro ecological practices and market access, Slow Food Uganda and its partners aim to build a more sustainable, fair, and health-centered food system for communities across East and Southern Africa
