The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abubakhar Jeje Odongo, has received the Letters of Credence of Ezana Getahun Kassa, the newly appointed Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to Uganda.
The credentials were presented during a ceremony in Kampala on May 6, 2026, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in agriculture and sustainable development.
Welcoming the envoy, Gen. Odongo Jeje described agriculture as the backbone of Uganda’s economy and a critical source of livelihoods, noting that the country remains focused on modernising the sector while preserving indigenous knowledge systems.
He emphasised the need to strike a balance between innovation and tradition, particularly as Uganda navigates emerging challenges such as climate change and food security.
“Uganda seeks to improve productivity while safeguarding what is uniquely ours,” he said, highlighting the importance of partnerships with institutions like FAO in guiding agricultural transformation.
The minister pointed to shifting weather patterns as an increasing threat to food production, stressing the urgency of climate adaptation and coordinated approaches across sectors.
He also addressed the role of modern agricultural technologies, including genetically modified organisms, noting that their adoption must be carefully considered within Uganda’s socio-economic and cultural context.
In his remarks, Kassa thanked the government for the warm reception and reaffirmed FAO’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s agricultural development agenda.
He described Uganda as a strategic partner in advancing regional food security, citing its favourable equatorial climate and strong agricultural potential.
Kassa further noted that agriculture intersects with multiple sectors and ministries, and called for broader engagement across government institutions to maximise impact.
In response, Gen. Odongo Jeje welcomed the proposal, affirming Uganda’s openness to collaboration through established diplomatic channels.
The meeting concluded with both parties expressing commitment to deepening technical cooperation, enhancing partnerships, and advancing sustainable agricultural development.
Officials said the engagement marks a renewed push to strengthen Uganda’s agricultural systems amid growing climate and market pressures.