KYANKWANZI, Uganda: Ntwetwe County Member of Parliament Dr Edward Kikabi has pledged to champion climate-smart and organic agriculture after visiting the African Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (AIBIS) Agroecology Demonstration Farm in Kyankwanzi District.
Dr Kikabi made the commitment during a tour of the demonstration farm in Kigoma Ward, Masodde-Kalagi Town Council, where he was accompanied by prominent Kiboga farmer Davis Kato.
The legislator was taken through various agroecological innovations by AIBIS Executive Director Allan Kalangi, who showcased practical solutions aimed at helping farmers adapt to climate change while improving food security and household incomes.
The demonstration farm, which has gained recognition as a center for sustainable agriculture in the region, features rainwater harvesting systems, organic vegetable production, integrated livestock farming and climate-resilient crop management practices.
Among the highlights of the visit was a thriving banana plantation established on land that many residents had previously considered unsuitable for productive agriculture.
Kalangi also showcased free-range poultry production, goat rearing and various organic farming methods that have enabled communities to improve productivity without relying heavily on synthetic agrochemicals.
MP Praises Climate-Smart Innovations
Dr Kikabi expressed admiration for the innovations being implemented at the farm, describing them as practical solutions that could help transform agriculture across Kyankwanzi and neighboring districts. “There are many important things at this farm that my constituents need to learn from,” he said.
The legislator revealed that he had heard about the AIBIS Agroecology Demonstration Farm during his election campaigns but had not previously had an opportunity to visit the facility.
He commended government for selecting the farm as one of the designated training centers under the Parish Development Model (PDM), saying the decision would help expand agricultural knowledge and skills among local farmers.
Championing Organic Agriculture
Dr Kikabi pledged to use his tenure in Parliament to advocate for policies and initiatives that promote climate-smart agriculture and organic farming practices.
According to the MP, food sovereignty and sustainable farming systems are essential for improving livelihoods, strengthening resilience to climate change and ensuring healthier communities.
His position aligns with Uganda’s National Organic Agriculture Policy (NOAP), which seeks to harness the country’s organic farming potential to boost food security, increase household incomes and protect the environment.
Agroecology is also increasingly being promoted as a key strategy for achieving the objectives of Uganda’s National Agriculture Policy and the National Climate Change Act.
Call for Greater Support
Agricultural experts say political support will be critical in advancing agroecology across the country.
Beyond community-level interventions, legislators can play a major role by advocating for increased funding for agricultural extension services, supporting legislation that protects indigenous seed systems and promoting policies that encourage organic food production and marketing.
Experts also argue that Parliament can help create incentives for climate-smart agriculture while strengthening regulations on harmful agrochemicals that threaten biodiversity and soil health.
A Growing Hub for Sustainable Agriculture
Since its establishment, the AIBIS Agroecology Demonstration Farm has emerged as one of the leading centers for agroecological learning in central Uganda.
The facility regularly hosts farmers, students, researchers, development partners and policymakers interested in sustainable agriculture, biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation.
Its recent selection as a Parish Development Model training center is expected to further increase its role in promoting practical agricultural skills and community-based climate resilience initiatives across the region.
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