Agroecology Clubs are Cultivating Change in the Next Generation of Farmers in Uganda.

It is difficult to forecast exactly how climate change will affect food production. It is estimated that the by 2050, the overall losses for food crops likely to be more than US$1.5 billion. Under the Uganda’s growth in the economy this will be 0.2% of GDP. Agroecology ultimately addresses the pressing need for adaptive solutions to protect Uganda's agricultural sector and food security in the face of a changing climate, but the ambiguity surrounding these changes and the seriousness of their repercussions highlight this requirement. However, climate change, soil degradation, and unsustainable farming practices threaten food security and livelihoods. Agroecology presents a sustainable solution by promoting environmentally friendly farming techniques. Yet, awareness and adoption remain low, particularly among young people.

However, lack of awareness on agroecology among learners of which it calls for an urgent need to address this challenge. Recognizing this gap, ESAFF Uganda launched Agroecology Clubs in schools nationwide in 2019. These clubs equip learners with hands-on experience in sustainable farming, tree planting, and agroecology-themed competitions. Through these initiatives, ESAFF Uganda and its partners are fostering a new generation of climate-conscious farmers and advocates for sustainable food systems. Overtime, initiatives like the Schools Agroecology Poem Writing Competition, school debates, agroecology clubs have been able to impact over 5,000 learners in more than 50 primary and secondary schools.

“I am so happy that through the Agroecology Poem Writing Competition, I am not only learning about agroecology but also able to stay in school as my school fees for this year is fully paid. I am so proud because of the bursary I got” Nkwanga John Paul, winner of the 2nd edition of the competition.

“With Agroecology Club in our school, it has been of high importance to us especially while mainstreaming the agroecological practices into the new curriculum. Learners are in position to acquire new knowledge and skills and this is of great importance to our school. Appreciation goes to ESAFF Uganda for this great initiative”. Umaru Sekiti, Patron – St. Joseph Naama Modern SS Agroecology Club.

The Role of ESAFF Uganda and Partners.

ESAFF Uganda, with support from Humundi and the Agroecology Fund, collaborates with partners such as Ilex de Paix (IDP), Kabarole Research and Resource Centre (KRC), and Joint Efforts to Save Environment (JESE) to expand agroecology awareness. Under the Feed Good Program, these organizations have intensified efforts to integrate agroecology into school curriculums in Western Uganda and beyond.

On 24th February 2025, ESAFF Uganda and partners participated in a reflective workshop on school programs in Fort Portal, hosted by IDP. During this meeting, stakeholders agreed to jointly implement the 3rd edition of the Schools Agroecology Poem Writing Competition 2025—an initiative designed to increase awareness and participation in agroecology among learners.

The Schools Agroecology Poem Writing Competition 2025.

The Schools Agroecology Poem Writing Competition will be launched in March 2025 Western Uganda. The launch will engage learners from over 10 schools in Kabarole district, fostering creativity while educating students and their communities on sustainable farming practices. In this competition, learners from primary and secondary schools in Uganda will take part including members of Agroecology and Nutrition Clubs.

The competition aims to raise awareness about agroecology and its role in sustainable agriculture, showcase the talents and creativity of students passionate about the environment and empower young authors as advocates for agroecology in Uganda.

“I am so happy that we are working together to empower learners in the promotion of agroecology. If learners are empowered, it means members in the community will be reached with information on agroecology.” – Eric Oteba, Programs Manager – KRC

Sustainable Agriculture for Future Generations

ESAFF Uganda’s commitment to promoting agroecology extends beyond poetry competitions. The organization also facilitates:

• School debates on environmental sustainability.

• Agroecology gardens where students gain practical farming experience.

• Tree planting initiatives to combat deforestation and enhance biodiversity.

• Community and school clean-up programs to promote eco-friendly living.

Be Part of the Change

Agroecology is a critical pillar for achieving food security and climate resilience in Uganda. ESAFF Uganda and its partners invite schools, policymakers, educators, and environmental advocates to support and expand agroecology programs across the country.

How You Can Get Involved:

• Encourage more schools to start Agroecology Clubs.

• Support the Schools Agroecology Poem Writing Competition by spreading awareness and ensuring learners’ participation.

• Partner with ESAFF Uganda to scale up agroecology initiatives in learning institutions.

  
  

Together, we can empower the next generation with the knowledge and skills needed to build a more sustainable, food-secure Uganda.