Strategic approaches to transform the cassava sector
Weak input systems characterized by low access to certified planting materials which are disease-free, and with high-yielding potential is a hindrance to the cassava sector development.
The project supports multiplication of clean, high-yielding, and disease-resistant cassava planting materials through collaborations with the Ministry of Agriculture Animal Industry and Fisheries and other research organizations like NARO, Namulonge and Private entities.
Increased access to certified high-quality planting materials ensuring farmers have disease-resistant, high-yielding varieties.
The Global Hunger Index ranks Uganda at 105 out of 127 countries, with over 1.5M people exposed to food insecurity. Cassava holds immense potential to address poverty and food insecurity.
Improve cassava farm yields through modern agronomy and mechanization from current yields of 3-5MT/acre to 20-25MT per acre per annum.
Increase yields from 3-5MT to 20-25MT per acre, improving food security and farmer incomes.
The country loses 30%-40% of harvested cassava through Post-harvest Physiological Deterioration (PPD) each year. Lack of investment in processing technologies keeps Uganda locked in a low-tech trap.
Ensure efficient adoption of value addition technologies by farmers at both artisanal and industrial levels, with emphasis on quality assurance.
Reduce post-harvest losses, increase product quality, and create competitive market-ready cassava products.
With over 3 million metric tonnes of fresh cassava roots produced annually, less than 10% is processed into high-value products. Uganda underutilizes cassava's potential as an agro-industrial raw material.
Strengthen cassava market systems that link producers and processors to the market through structured networks and platforms.
Create structured value chains connecting farmers to markets, increasing commercialization and creating job opportunities.
Women and youths in Uganda face significant challenges accessing resources. Tradition plays a hindering role to women and youths accessing land and finance.
Promote inclusive participation, especially for women and youths who dominate subsistence cassava production and informal processing.
Key Fact: Uganda's population is more than 70% youth and 30% of households led by women. It is imperative to engage these groups into the agricultural economy.
Unlock resources and create an inclusive environment promoting gender participation and economic empowerment.
Quality planting materials
Modern farming practices
Value addition technology
Market linkages & networks
Inclusive growth & equity