Uganda, China sign partnership to boost perennial rice production

UGANDA – Uganda through National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO) and China’s BGI Group have signed a cooperation agreement to boost rice production and livestock breeding in the country.

The agreement, formalized on October 22, 2024, at the National Crop Resources Research Institute (NaCRRI) in Namulonge, lays the foundation for a new regional center focusing on the research and development of perennial rice, livestock, and fisheries.

This cooperation includes the establishment of the Uganda-China Regional Perennial Rice Center and a broader initiative to support sustainable agricultural practices.

The partnership aims to develop crops, livestock, and fisheries that will improve productivity and contribute to food security in Uganda and beyond.

At the MoU signing, Chinese Ambassador to Uganda Zhang Lizhong emphasized the longstanding friendship between the two nations.

“Our cooperation in agriculture has evolved significantly. This new partnership will produce remarkable results in animal husbandry, rice production, and fish farming, creating a win-win situation for both countries,” said Ambassador Zhang

On his part, Julius Twinamatsiko, Uganda’s Coordinator for Uganda-China Agricultural Programs, highlighted that Uganda is the first country outside Asia to release a perennial rice variety, marking a significant milestone.

According to him, the center will serve as a hub for research, not only for Ugandan scientists but also for researchers from across Africa, supporting the continent’s broader agricultural transformation efforts.

Traditionally, rice is an annual crop, meaning farmers need to replant each season. However, perennial rice presents an opportunity for increased productivity, reduced labor, and improved soil health.

Dr. Yona Baguma, Director General of NARO applauded the initiative noting that it will also benefit farmers.

“Farmers will now be able to harvest rice continuously, ensuring sufficient supplies for both trade and direct consumption.”

The development of perennial rice in Uganda began in 2021 with support from China, using conventional breeding methods that integrated genes from Oryza glaberrima, a rice species native to Africa.

The new variety, PR 107, has already been successfully released and offers numerous advantages. Not only does it reduce the need for agro-chemicals by naturally restoring nutrients like nitrogen to the soil, but it also promotes mixed farming systems that can sustain soil health and enhance biodiversity.

Research Expansion to Livestock, Fisheries

The partnership goes beyond rice. The new regional center will also focus on livestock and fisheries, sectors that are critical to Uganda’s agricultural economy.

Research will address productivity challenges, explore sustainable breeding methods, and improve food security.

BGI Group, a world-renowned research institution specializing in genomics and biotechnology, will bring its expertise to the project.

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