Uganda’s potato sector is set for a major transformation following the handover of 13 improved potato varieties by the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) to nine private seed companies for large-scale multiplication and distribution to farmers.
Among these are the newly released NAROPOT 7–10, bred specifically for industrial use and capable of yielding over 25 tons per hectare, aimed at reducing Uganda’s dependence on imported potatoes. Other varieties include Uganda 11 (Rutuku), Victoria, KACHPOT 1, and NAROPOT 1–6—notably NAROPOT 4 (Rwangume).
The licensing agreements were signed at NARO’s Aquatic Research and Development Centre in Kajjansi, marking a key step in the institution’s commercialization strategy to expand farmers’ access to high-quality seed.
The nine licensed companies include FICA Seeds, Kabale Irish Potato Agri-business Limited (KIPAL), Okeba Uganda Limited, Parlex Enterprise Uganda Limited, Tabid Farm Seeds Africa Limited, Ujamma Seed Company Limited, CADCA Seeds Limited, Sterling Seeds Limited, and Syova Seeds (U) Limited.
Dr. Sadik Kassim, NARO’s Deputy Director General for Technology Promotion, said the agreements not only guarantee a reliable supply of certified seed but also generate revenue to support research and innovation. He highlighted that potatoes are the first vegetatively propagated crop to be handed to private seed firms.
NARO Director General Dr. Yona Baguma emphasized the central role of seed in boosting productivity:
“Without quality seed, there can be no sustainable agricultural transformation. This milestone affirms our mission to feed the nation, increase farmer incomes, and secure national food systems.”
He urged the companies to ensure farmers receive agronomic training to unlock the varieties’ full potential, while pledging continued support in seed quality diagnostics and distribution networks across the country.
Representatives from NARO’s Kachwekano Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute noted that the new varieties mature in just 90 days, making them ideal for both smallholders and commercial farms.
Private sector players welcomed the move. Narsis Tushabe, Managing Director of FICA Seeds, said that access to quality seed has long been a challenge, forcing reliance on imports from neighboring countries.
“This partnership gives us the opportunity to empower farmers with reliable seed and reduce imports,” he said.
The varieties will be officially launched on World Food Day, October 16, 2025, at NARO’s Rwebitaba Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute in Fort Portal.
