The Buganda Kingdom has dispatched 102 farmers and livestock keepers from various counties across the Kingdom to Kenya for a five-day intensive agricultural training aimed at equipping them with modern and globally competitive farming skills.
The initiative, approved by the Kabaka of Buganda, is being implemented through the Kabaka Foundation, as part of the Kingdom's broader strategy to promote agricultural modernisation, food security, and economic empowerment among its people.
The delegation, which includes clan chiefs, community farmers, and youth representatives, will visit key agricultural institutions and farms in Kenya to learn about advanced crop production, livestock management, value addition, and agribusiness marketing strategies that have propelled Kenya's agriculture to regional and international success.
Flagging off the team at the Kingdom's main palace in Bulange-Mengo, the Minister for Cooperative Agriculture, Fisheries, and Markets, Hajji Amis Kakomo, commended the farmers for their commitment to learning and development.
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He urged them to share the skills and knowledge acquired with fellow farmers upon their return to ensure a multiplier effect across Buganda.
"This opportunity is not just for personal benefit--it is for the transformation of our communities. When you return, you must be ambassadors of change by helping others adopt modern, profitable farming methods," Hon. Kakomo emphasized.
Representing the Clan Leaders' Council, the Chairperson and Head of the Kkobe Clan, Omutaka Namwama Augustine Kizito Mutumba, hailed the Kabaka for prioritizing agriculture as a cornerstone of socio-economic growth. He noted that involving clan leaders in the program is a strategic move to inspire younger generations, especially the youth, to view agriculture as a viable and dignified source of wealth.
"Our participation as clan leaders sends a clear message--agriculture is not for the poor or uneducated. It is a foundation of prosperity, and our youth must see it as a path to financial independence," Omutaka Mutumba remarked.
Speaking on behalf of the Kabaka Foundation Board, the Kingdom's Attorney General, Christopher Bwanika, expressed gratitude to His Majesty the Kabaka for his visionary leadership and unwavering support toward the Kingdom's development initiatives.
"Through the Kabaka's guidance, the people of Buganda are being empowered to become self-reliant. This training is yet another milestone in our journey toward achieving sustainable livelihoods," Hon. Bwanika said.
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The Chief Executive Officer of the Kabaka Foundation, Mr. Edward Kaggwa Ndagala, underscored the importance of tapping into global agricultural opportunities. He noted that Uganda possesses vast natural resources and fertile land, positioning it well to compete effectively in international agricultural markets if modern methods are embraced.
"It is time for Ugandan farmers to go beyond subsistence farming. We must learn from global best practices and turn agriculture into a profitable enterprise that drives our economy," Mr. Ndagala stated.
The training program in Kenya will focus on innovations in farming technology, climate-smart agriculture, value chain development, and agribusiness management. Upon completion, the farmers are expected to implement demonstration projects in their respective counties under the supervision of the Kabaka Foundation and the Kingdom's Ministry of Agriculture.
The Buganda Kingdom continues to position itself as a key driver of agrarian transformation, promoting education, innovation, and self-reliance in line with His Majesty the Kabaka's vision for a prosperous and empowered people
