The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gen. Jeje Odongo , has received Letters of Credence from Mr. Ezana Getahun Kassa, the newly appointed representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to Uganda.
The ceremony was marked by cordial engagement and a shared commitment to sustainable development and agricultural transformation.
Welcoming the FAO envoy, Gen. Odongo Jeje underscored agriculture as the enduring backbone of Uganda’s economy and livelihoods, noting that the sector remains central to the country’s development agenda, as is the case in many developing nations.
He said that while Uganda continues to modernize its agricultural sector, the country remains equally committed to preserving indigenous knowledge systems and traditional farming practices that have sustained communities for generations.
The Minister highlighted the growing urgency of climate adaptation, citing shifting weather patterns and their implications for food security and agricultural productivity.
He emphasized the importance of adopting balanced approaches that integrate innovation with cultural sensitivities, particularly in areas such as biotechnology.
While acknowledging the potential contribution of modern agricultural technologies, including genetically modified organisms (GMOs), Gen. Odongo Jeje stressed that their adoption must be carefully considered within Uganda’s socio-economic and cultural context.
“Uganda seeks to improve productivity while safeguarding what is uniquely ours,” he said, adding that partnerships with institutions such as FAO are critical in helping the country navigate complex agricultural transitions.
Reflecting on Uganda’s natural advantages, the Minister described the country’s equatorial climate as a strategic asset that supports year-round agricultural production, despite emerging climate-related challenges.
He reiterated the Government’s commitment to coordinated and cross-sectoral collaboration to ensure sustainable agricultural transformation and resilience.
In his remarks, Mr. Kassa expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded to him and reaffirmed FAO’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s development priorities.
He commended Uganda’s favorable climate and agricultural potential, describing the country as a strategic partner in advancing regional food security.
Mr. Kassa further emphasized that agriculture cuts across multiple sectors and ministries and requested support in engaging broadly with Government institutions beyond the Ministry of Agriculture.
In response, Gen. Odongo Jeje welcomed the proposal, affirming that Uganda remains open to collaborative engagement provided coordination is undertaken through established diplomatic channels.
The meeting concluded with both parties expressing a shared commitment to strengthening cooperation, enhancing technical partnerships, and advancing sustainable agricultural development for the benefit of the Ugandan people.
