The Government of Uganda has signed a Host Country Agreement with the Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International (CABI), formally granting the organization a permanent institutional presence in the country in a move expected to strengthen agricultural exports, scientific research, and farmer support systems.
The agreement was signed on Tuesday in Kampala by Gen. Odongo Jeje Abubakhar on behalf of the Government of Uganda and Morris Akiri on behalf of CABI.
Mr. Akiri was accompanied by Dr. Monica Kansiime, Christine Alokit, and Dr. Nasib Mugwanya from the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO).
CABI is a science-based, intergovernmental non-profit organization established in 1928 under a United Nations treaty framework and recognized by both the UN and the Commonwealth. Uganda has been a member of the organization since 1995, working closely with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries and NARO on agricultural research and development initiatives.
The signing follows Uganda’s ratification of the CABI Instrument in 2025 and the completion of all legal procedures, including clearance by the Attorney General. The agreement clears the way for CABI to establish a country office in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area, transitioning from a project-based presence to a permanent operational footprint in Uganda.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Gen. Odongo described the partnership as strategically important in addressing Uganda’s long-standing agricultural challenges, particularly restoring and expanding access to international markets such as the European Union.
He stressed the need to improve agricultural standards, strengthen farmer guidance systems, and enhance value chains to ensure Ugandan produce complies with global sanitary and phytosanitary requirements.
According to the minister, CABI’s mandate aligns with Uganda’s national development priorities, especially in poverty reduction through improved agricultural productivity, environmental protection using nature-based solutions, knowledge transfer to farmers and extension workers, and inclusive value chains targeting women and youth.
Mr. Akiri reaffirmed CABI’s commitment to deepening collaboration with Uganda, highlighting ongoing initiatives including an EU-funded €8 million programme aimed at strengthening regulatory systems, building capacity for plant health, and establishing a Centre of Excellence at Entebbe International Airport.
He also cited innovations such as cold chain logistics systems designed to help farmers preserve produce quality for export markets.
Officials said the establishment of CABI’s permanent office in Uganda is expected to improve the country’s export competitiveness, strengthen food security through programmes such as PlantwisePlus, and give local institutions greater access to global scientific expertise.
Both Uganda and CABI expressed optimism that the agreement will open up new opportunities for investment, research, and technical cooperation, marking a significant step toward sustainable agricultural transformation and economic growth.
