The Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Frank Tumwebaze.
Frank Tumwebaza, Minister of Agriculture has defended the need for Uganda to host the African Union Extraordinary Assembly on Agriculture, saying the Summit will improve on Uganda’s global reputation as a conference destination, and showcase Uganda as an icon of peace in Africa.
He made the remarks during yesterday’s plenary sitting, while briefing Parliament on the African Union Extraordinary Assembly on the Comprehensive Agriculture Development Program, that will be held between 9th to 11th January 2025 at Speaker Resort Munyonyo, saying over 2000 guests including 49 Heads of States from Africa are expected to attend.
“The hosting of another big event of the heads of states at another big event within a year of hosting the Non-Aligned Movement summit and G77 will improve the international ratings of Uganda as a conference destination hence reaffirm and promote the country’s credibility as an icon of peace and stability in the region. This has an important bearing on investment attraction and tourism, besides reputational benefits,” explained Tumwebaza.
Held under the theme; Sustainable and Agri-food systems for a health and prosperous Africa, the Minister explained that there major meetings will be held during the Kampala Summit including the one amongst Ministers of Agriculture of the various African nations with relevant agriculture experts, then there will be a meeting between Ministers of Foreign Affairs alongside Ministers of Agriculture and last meeting will be held amongst Heads of States from Africa.
“Uganda stands to reap several benefits from hosting the African Union Extraordinary. It is an opportunity for the country to guide and shape continental policies and strategies in the agricultural sector and related sector for the next 10years. The resolutions will be referred to as; the Kampala declaration for the period up to 2035 thus enhancing the profile and international credibility of Uganda as a country,” said Tumwebaze.
The Minister also stated that there will be some sideline meetings held to discuss the issues of women and youths in agriculture, as well as refugees and Uganda hosting the summit will benefit the private sector noting, “With anticipated number of participants in the assembly, Uganda’s private sector will earn considerably big. The Government will also earn considerably from the enhanced tax collection from the private sector earnings.”
