Uganda has released three improved varieties of purple-fleshed sweet potatoes as the government seeks to strengthen food security, improve nutrition and support farmers through agricultural research and innovation.
The varieties were unveiled on Friday, October 16, during the commemoration of World Food Day at the Mbarara Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MBAZARDI) in Mbarara, according to Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries Minister Frank Tumwebaze.
The event also marked 100 years since the establishment of MBAZARDI, formerly known as Mbarara Stock Farm, which was locally referred to as Famu y'omujungu.
Tumwebaze congratulated scientists at the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) for their continued research and breeding efforts aimed at sustaining Uganda's agri-food systems.
He said the newly released sweet potato varieties were rich in nutrients, including zinc and vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants associated with potential health benefits.
The varieties are expected to contribute to improved nutrition and diversify food production as the country seeks to strengthen the resilience of its agricultural sector.
Tumwebaze also called on agricultural scientists, political leaders and farmers to mobilise communities to increase food production and take advantage of available arable land.
He noted that Uganda had approximately 40 million acres of arable land but had yet to utilise half of it effectively for agricultural production.
The minister urged farmers to expand cultivation to increase food supplies for domestic markets while improving household incomes and supporting the country's agricultural economy.
He acknowledged the growing challenges posed by harsh and unpredictable weather conditions, assuring farmers that the government was mobilising resources to expand irrigation farming.
According to Tumwebaze, increased investment in irrigation would help farmers reduce their dependence on rainfall and maintain production despite changing weather patterns.
He further emphasised the importance of research and innovation in equipping farmers with the knowledge and technologies needed for climate-smart agriculture.
The minister said agricultural production should balance food requirements, income generation and animal feed needs while protecting the environment.
Uganda joined the rest of the world in marking World Food Day, an annual event highlighting efforts to address hunger, improve nutrition and promote sustainable food systems.
Tumwebaze concluded by wishing farmers a happy World Food Day, reaffirming the importance of collaboration between researchers, government leaders and agricultural producers in strengthening food security.