We will ensure continuity in ongoing projects, safeguard assets, and maintain staffing levels
Permanent Secretary Maj. Gen. David Kasura Kyomukama
In a bid to enhance efficiency and streamline operations, the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA), National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS), Dairy Development Authority (DDA), and Cotton Development Organisation (CDO) have transferred their operations to the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF).
This transition follows the dissolution of these agencies after President Museveni signed amended Acts on December 23, 2024.
Permanent Secretary Maj. Gen. David Kasura Kyomukama clarified that this rationalisation is not an abolition but a strategic reallocation to improve resource efficiency.
He assured stakeholders that services and operations would continue without disruption, safeguarding assets and personnel.
“We will ensure continuity in ongoing projects, safeguard assets, and maintain staffing levels,” Kyomukama said during the formal handover ceremony at MAAIF headquarters in Entebbe.
The restructuring aligns with the Government’s vision to optimise public resources, boost agricultural productivity, and position Uganda as a regional agricultural powerhouse.
Key Achievements and Transitions
Coffee Sector
Under UCDA’s stewardship, Uganda’s coffee production surged from 2.8 million bags in 1991 to 9 million annually, earning $1.1 billion in export revenue.
The authority’s assets, including regional offices and a Farmer Registration System, are now under MAAIF’s management.
Dairy Sector
Dairy production increased from 250 million litres to over 5 billion annually, generating over $250 million in exports. MAAIF is committed to sustaining this momentum under its expanded structure.
Cotton Sector
CDO handed over significant assets, including land, a cotton testing laboratory, and buildings, while noting UGX 1.7 billion in liabilities. The organisation highlighted ongoing cotton marketing, ginning, and processing activities, alongside efforts to support youth employment through revised job frameworks.
NAADS Contributions
Projects such as irrigation systems and high-value crop promotion will be integrated into MAAIF’s portfolio. This includes initiatives like the Coffee Centre of Excellence, ERAGON, and Kyambogo Hub.
Speaking about the changes, Dr. Samuel Mugasi, former Executive Director of NAADS, highlighted the agency’s contributions to farmer empowerment and announced the establishment of a new Department of Development within MAAIF.
He flagged unresolved legal and financial issues while recommending scaling up high-value crops and enhancing extension services.
This strategic move underscores Uganda’s commitment to agricultural transformation, leveraging institutional resources to drive growth and development across the sector.
Addressing the nation on New Year’s Day, President Museveni emphasized the need to enhance the quality of Uganda’s agricultural produce, including coffee, to boost exports.
“Uganda’s reputation in the global coffee market relies on quality. Practices such as prematurely harvesting green coffee harm this reputation. I urge all Ugandans to maintain high standards, as the current good prices are a direct result of quality and favourable international demand,” he said.