The annual Rwenzori Indigenous Seed and Food Fair returned over the weekend, drawing hundreds of farmers, researchers, policymakers, civil society organizations, and private sector players to Fort Portal City in celebration of the region’s traditional seed varieties and food systems.
Held under the theme: "Harnessing the potential of indigenous seeds and foods in addressing food security and nutrition challenges in the Rwenzori Sub-Region", the event spotlighted agroecology as a sustainable and culturally rooted solution to hunger, malnutrition, and environmental degradation.
The fair was organized by Joint Effort to Save the Environment (JESE) in collaboration with other members of the Rwenzori Agroecology Actors Platform (RAAP), with support from development partners including Iles de Paix (IDP), Broederlijk Delen (BD), PELUM Uganda, and CARE International.
“Our goal is to showcase the critical role farmer-managed seed systems play in conserving agricultural biodiversity, ensuring food security, and promoting food sovereignty,” said William Amanya, Head of Agriculture at JESE.
He noted that the event also serves as a regional preparatory platform ahead of the National Agroecology Week of Action set for early next year in Kampala, where top exhibitors from Rwenzori will participate.
Participants at the fair demonstrated the nutritional and economic power of indigenous crops such as amaranth, black nightshade, spider plant, cowpeas, and finger millet—all rich in essential nutrients like iron, protein, and vitamins.
“These crops are not just food; they are medicine,” Amanya emphasized. “They hold immense potential to reverse malnutrition and diversify diets, especially for vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women.”
Prof. Moses Muhumuza of Mountains of the Moon University lauded the fair as a transformative platform for tackling dual challenges of undernutrition and poverty in the region.
“Indigenous knowledge and traditional food systems can become powerful drivers of both nutrition and economic empowerment,” Prof. Muhumuza said.
The fair also provided a unique opportunity for dialogue between local communities and government representatives.
Sir Sunday Bob, Commissioner for Agroecology at the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), reaffirmed the government’s support for agroecology.
“We have finalized the National Agroecology Strategy, which provides a clear roadmap to integrate indigenous food systems into national development frameworks,” Sir Sunday announced.
With alarming malnutrition statistics—26% of Ugandan children under five stunted and anaemia affecting 50% of children and 25% of women—organizers said now is the time to invest in agroecological solutions rooted in local traditions.
A Growing Market for Indigenous Foods
Beyond the health benefits, Amanya noted the growing global demand for organic and traditional foods, which could open new market opportunities for smallholder farmers in Uganda.
“With the right skills in value addition and market access, indigenous seeds can become the foundation of profitable enterprises for our rural communities,” he said.
The event concluded with calls for stronger farmer networks, increased investment in agroecological research, and more inclusive agricultural policies that protect local seed systems and empower small-scale food producers.
