The Government of Uganda has signed a Host Country Agreement with the Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International (CABI), paving the way for the organisation to establish a permanent presence in the country to support agricultural development and export growth.
The agreement, signed in Kampala on May 6, 2026, was executed by Abubakhar Jeje Odongo on behalf of the government and Morris Akiri, Executive Director for Africa at CABI.
CABI is a science-based, intergovernmental organisation established in 1928 under a UN treaty framework, with recognition from both the United Nations and the Commonwealth.
Uganda has been a member since 1995, working closely with the Ministry of Agriculture Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) and the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO).
The signing follows Uganda’s ratification of the CABI instrument in 2025 and completion of all legal processes, including clearance by the Attorney General.
It enables CABI to transition from a project-based presence to a fully-fledged Country Office in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area.
Speaking at the signing, Minister Odongo emphasised the importance of the partnership in addressing key challenges within Uganda’s agricultural sector, particularly improving standards and expanding access to international markets such as the European Union.
He noted that Uganda must strengthen farmer support systems, enhance value chains, and meet global sanitary and phytosanitary requirements to remain competitive.
The partnership is expected to focus on increasing agricultural productivity, promoting environmentally sustainable practices, and supporting inclusive value chains targeting women and youth.
Akiri said CABI is committed to deepening collaboration with Uganda, highlighting ongoing initiatives including a European Union-funded €8 million programme aimed at strengthening plant health systems and regulatory frameworks.
He also revealed plans to establish a Centre of Excellence at Entebbe International Airport, alongside innovations such as cold chain logistics to help farmers maintain produce quality for export markets.
Officials said the establishment of a permanent CABI office will improve Uganda’s export competitiveness, enhance food security through programmes like PlantwisePlus, and provide local institutions with access to global scientific expertise.
The agreement is also expected to unlock new opportunities in research, investment, and technical cooperation, reinforcing Uganda’s broader agenda of agricultural transformation and economic growth.
Government officials described the deal as a significant milestone in positioning Uganda as a competitive player in global agricultural markets while supporting sustainable development at home.