Farmers, agricultural organisations and government officials gathered in Fort Portal City on October 15 and 16 for the 2026 Rwenzori Indigenous Seed and Food Fair, where they emphasised the importance of preserving local seed varieties and promoting diverse diets. The two-day event was organised by the Rwenzori Agroecology Actors' Platform with support from several partners including Joint Efforts to Save the Environment and PELUM Uganda.
Stunting among children under five in the sub-region stands at between 41 and 55 per cent, according to figures cited by stakeholders at the fair. The high rate underscores why interventions to improve children's access to nutritious foods are urgent. Clovis Kabaseke, the platform's chairperson, said promoting agroecology was vital for sustainable food production and helping communities adapt to changing weather conditions.
Stakeholders warned that exhibitions alone would not safeguard indigenous food systems. They called for improved access to quality planting materials, agricultural training and reliable markets for farmers. Patrick Baguma, executive director of Joint Efforts to Save the Environment, said collaboration between government, agricultural organisations and communities was essential to sustaining indigenous seeds and traditional foods.
Fort Portal City Mayor Willy Kintu Muhanga pledged the city's support for initiatives aimed at improving agricultural production and nutrition. Senior Agricultural Inspector Norah Nabachwa, representing the Ministry of Agriculture, highlighted the importance of maintaining seed quality standards and urged local governments to support community seed banks while ensuring compliance with requirements.