The National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tokyo-based agri-biotechnology firm Ac-Planta Inc. to accelerate agricultural research, innovation, and technology transfer in Uganda.
The agreement, inked at NARO headquarters in Entebbe, sets out a wide-ranging framework of cooperation in key areas including crops, forestry, biotechnology, climate-smart agriculture, and agro-industrial technologies. It will also explore new frontiers such as digital extension, precision farming, and circular bio-economy solutions.
Ac-Planta is internationally recognized for its pioneering bio-stimulants that enhance crop resilience against drought, heat, and salinity. The partnership is expected to introduce these technologies to Ugandan farmers, helping translate scientific breakthroughs into practical solutions that promote sustainable food systems.
NARO Director General Dr. Yona Baguma hailed the partnership as a milestone in leveraging global science to address the pressing challenges of climate change and food insecurity.
“This partnership fits very well into our focus on promoting agriculture that is resilient to climate change, as experienced in the current times,” Dr. Baguma said.
Ac-Planta Founder and CEO, Dr. Jong-Myong Kim, emphasized that the collaboration aligns with his company’s vision of contributing to a “world of sustainable abundance” through plant science.
“Partnering with NARO allows us to translate our research into practical solutions for communities in Uganda and across the world,” Dr. Kim said.
Japan’s Ambassador to Uganda, Takuya Sasayama, who witnessed the signing, underscored the urgency of boosting agricultural resilience amid worsening climate shocks.
“Japan has experienced record-breaking temperatures and extreme weather, and we recognize the urgency of tackling climate change. We are committed to working with Uganda to build resilience in agriculture,” he noted.
Chairperson of the NARO Governing Council, William Olaho-Mukani, described the deal as a gateway for technology transfer from Japan to Uganda. Meanwhile, NARO scientist Dr. Godfrey Asea urged the establishment of a local manufacturing facility to reduce costs and improve farmer access to Ac-Planta technologies.
Beyond technological innovation, the partnership will focus heavily on human capacity development, including training programs in agricultural sciences, engineering, agribusiness, and pharma-biotechnology.
Planned activities also include specialized short courses, farm clinics, exhibitions, policy advocacy, and the establishment of technology development centers and extension initiatives.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by senior NARO directors, Ac-Planta officials, and key stakeholders in Uganda’s agricultural sector.
