I had the privilege of representing KRC-Uganda as a speaker at the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) Summit held from January 9th to 11th, 2025, at the Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort and Convention Centre in Kampala, Uganda. This landmark three-day summit, themed “Building Resilient Agri-Food Systems in Africa,” brought together over 2,000 delegates from 43 African Union (AU) member states, including development partners, heads of state, and agriculture experts, all committed to shaping a sustainable future for Africa’s agriculture.
One of the key outcomes of the summit was the endorsement of the Kampala Declaration 2026–2035 by the President of Uganda. This declaration reaffirms African governments’ commitment to allocating 10% of their national budgets to agriculture as a driver of economic growth. Building on the Malabo Declaration, which faced challenges in implementation, the Kampala Declaration places a renewed emphasis on accountability and collaboration to ensure the set goals are realized.
A significant commitment made in the Declaration was to increase food and nutrition security, with the aim of ending hunger and reducing stunting by 2035 across all AU member states. The Declaration calls on governments and non-state actors to implement transformative strategies for agri-food systems through enhanced policy actions, funding, and research-driven innovation.
Throughout the summit, several side sessions delved into strategies for operationalizing these commitments. A significant focus was placed on fostering collaboration between governments, civil society organizations, research institutions, and other stakeholders to address the pressing challenges facing Africa’s food systems. I had the honor of delivering a keynote address on “Leveraging Research for Evidence-Based Policy to Transform Agriculture.” My presentation highlighted the importance of actionable data and community-driven insights in shaping sustainable agricultural systems.
KRC-Uganda’s Commitment
As part of KRC-Uganda, I am proud to affirm our dedication to advancing sustainable agriculture and food security in alignment with the Kampala Declaration’s vision. Our current programs actively contribute to the strategies and actions necessary to fulfill these commitments. Moving forward, we remain committed to fostering impactful partnerships, driving innovative approaches, and advocating for evidence-based policies and practices that build resilient agri-food systems.
“10% of Uganda’s Budget Pledged for Agri-Food Systems under CAADP Kampala Declaration 2026–2035”
The CAADP Summit was an inspiring experience, reinforcing the shared resolve across Africa to build resilient agricultural systems that can secure a prosperous future for all.
By: Dr. Violet Kanyiginya
Head of Food Security, Agribusiness and Environment Conservation (FAGREC) Unit
