ESAFF Uganda

HAPPENING NOW: The Annual National Agroecology Dialogue at the Lamogi Sub County headquarters in Amuru district.

Smallscale farmers are exhibiting their indigenous and agroecologically produced foods.

In partnership with Gulu Referal hospital, we are also providing free medical checkups and blood testing for the community.

This evening, we take the discussion on to Gulu district. Tune in to Mega FM from 8:00pm to 9:00pm for a very informative talkshow with small-scale farmers, local leaders and other Agroecology experts.

The Kyere Community seed bank has officially been launched.

“I want to assure ESAFF Uganda and all our partners that the local government of Serere stands firmly behind our farmers. We are fully committed to supporting their efforts and will work hand-in-hand with them to manage, protect, and sustain the Kyere Community Seed Bank. This seed bank is a shared responsibility, and together with our farmers, we will ensure that it thrives, preserves our indigenous seeds, strengthens food security, and contributes to the growth of local agriculture.”- Stephen Ochola, L.C.5 Chairperson, Serere district

“I want to thank ESAFF Uganda for consistently choosing Serere as a platform to exhibit such innovations. Many of these innovations play a critical role in addressing climate change and improving agricultural resilience. As government, our primary responsibility is to assess whether these initiatives are truly benefiting the communities on the ground. I am optimistic that the Kyere Community Seed Bank will bring tangible benefits to the people of Kyere not only by supporting the seed business but also by enhancing the consumption of indigenous crops grown from the seeds we have collectively preserved.”- Nseko Anthony, Deputy RDC-Serere district.

“As the Serere community, you need to reflect so much on your readiness for conservation of indigenous seed. The good indigenous seeds we have now is courtesy of our fore fathers guarded the seed jealously. Its our time to act that the next generation will find the food to eat and that food can only come from the indigenous seeds we save.” - Hannington Lwandasa, National Agricultural Research Organization- PGRC

Mr. Hakim Baliraine, National Chairperson of ESAFF Uganda noted that the Kyere Community Seed Bank is not only the sixth but also the largest built by ESAFF Uganda.

“This seedbank will serve as a thriving hub for seed multiplication and conservation, demonstrating that preserving indigenous seeds is neither difficult nor beyond our reach. This seed bank is designed to showcase how simple, community-driven seed saving can transform our food systems.”- Hakim Baliraine

He called upon the local government to provide unwavering support for the continued preservation of indigenous seeds, recognizing their crucial role in fostering resilience and ensuring the long-term sustainability of our food systems.




Norad Greenpeace Africa Oxfam in Uganda PELUM Uganda National Agricultural Research Organization

Robert Nyeko, on behalf of our National Coordinator emphasized the vital role of community seed banks in ensuring food security, preserving agricultural biodiversity, and empowering small-scale farmers.

“The Kyere seed bank is not just a response to current seed challenges but a long-term investment in the future of our communities. It serves as a bank for diverse seed varieties as well as a platform for knowledge exchange on seed preservation and multiplication”- Robert Nyeko




Norad Greenpeace Africa PELUM Uganda Oxfam in Uganda National Agricultural Research Organization

In his welcome remarks at the official launch of the Kyere Community Seedbank in Serere district, the Area councillor of Alilimo village noted that as a village they feel privileged to host the seedbank which will boost the preservation of their local seed varieties.

“As the local leadership and community of Alilimo, we pledge our full support to ensure the success and sustainability of this initiative. We thank ESAFF Uganda and its partners for their support to our community”.-Jerry Okello, Area Councillor- Alilimo Village





Norad Greenpeace Africa PELUM Uganda Oxfam in Uganda

Juventine Ecumu, a small-scale farmer in Serere district highlighted that with , everything around us is interconnected and essential to our survival.

“Our soils have been overused and depleted, and they can no longer sustain us unless we manage them wisely. We must remember: Feed the soil, and the soil will feed the crops; the crops will feed us. By nurturing our soils today, we secure food, health, and life for generations to come.”- Juventine shared.





Norad Greenpeace Africa PELUM Uganda Oxfam in Uganda

Janet Atim, highlighted the importance of community seed banks in preserving biodiversity and strengthening food security.

She emphasized how these seed banks empower local communities to safeguard traditional seed varieties and ensure future generations have access to healthy, resilient and indigenous seeds.

“Seeds are the foundation of life, by preserving them, we’re not just saving plants, we’re saving cultures and traditions.”- Janet Atim, ESAFF Amuria, seed champion





Norad Greenpeace Africa PELUM Uganda Agroecology Fund

At ETOP Radio, David Oming, our Programs Assistant shared that the National Agroecology Festival 2025 was organised to celebrate small-scale farmers who are championing sustainable, climate-resilient farming.

“We want to create a platform where small-scale farmers, policymakers and young people can connect, learn, and showcase innovations in agroecology. This festival is appreciating and highlighting local knowledge, indigenous seeds, and agroecological farming practices.”

Small-scale farmers from Alilimo Farmer Field School (FFS) in Serere district sharing their experiences since they transitioned to agroecological farming practices and how they are using the little resources around them without harming the environment.

They have also reflected on the 13 principles of Agroecology.

“I have realised that with Agroecology, nothing goes to waste. Even the human urine in our household is kept and after 21 days we use it as a pesticide.”- Apolot Mary, small-scale farmer.