Uganda Eyes Global Organic Food Market With Proposed Food Safety Ombudsman

Uganda is actively positioning itself to tap into the fast-growing global organic food market by strengthening regulatory frameworks and establishing a dedicated food safety ombudsman. Speaking at the fifth National Organic Week and inaugural Organic and Nature Expo Africa 2026 in Kampala, Odrek Rwabwogo highlighted the critical role that upcoming legislation will play in safeguarding consumer health and bolstering export integrity.

Mr Rwabwogo, who chairs the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PACEID), emphasized that the proposed Food and Agriculture Regulatory Authority Bill, 2026, will introduce centralized certification to monitor agricultural chemicals, animal feeds, and veterinary medicines. The legislation aims to eliminate fragmented regulatory processes, tackle counterfeit inputs, and curb harmful residues that threaten both domestic health and international trade.

The global appetite for organic produce continues to surge, driven by increasing health consciousness and a desire to combat lifestyle-related illnesses. Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze noted that while legislation provides an essential framework, sustainable growth requires empowering farmers through comprehensive education, improved extension services, and strict adherence to international standards.

Meanwhile, industry leaders such as National Organic Agricultural Movement of Uganda (NOGAMU) chief executive Chariton Namuwoza called for the accelerated integration of organic farming into broader national frameworks like the Parish Development Model. As major export destinations tighten traceability and compliance requirements, targeted support for smallholder farmers remains vital to unlocking Africa’s competitive edge in the organic sector. Read more details about this story on the Daily Monitor.