SG 2000-Uganda has supported Ugandan government initiatives implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), primarily through its extension systems. We were closely involved in the evolution of Uganda’s Plan for Modernization of Agriculture (PMA) and subsequently in the formation of the National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS).

SG2000-Uganda started in 24 districts, and worked with over 300 government extension staff in 272 sub-counties to support development of over 50,000 smallholder farmers. From 1997-2001, the major development activities involved crop demonstrations, seed multiplication, implements for animal traction, post-harvest handling, and input delivery through private stockists.

In 2001, we launched a program to develop farmer-based organizations to provide members with a range of services, from supplying inputs to diversifying crops and initiating livestock and agroprocessing enterprises to improving market linkages. Twelve One-Stop Center Associations (OSCAs), each made up of 30-40 village-based groups within catchment areas of about 5,000 farmers, were established. During 2001-2008, SG 2000-Uganda focused on establishing the infrastructure for these OSCAs and in leadership capacity building and enterprise development. Enterprise development revolved around seed multiplication and supply (quality protein maize, improved NERICA rice varieties, groundnut and pigeon pea), as well as post-harvest handling, bulk grain marketing and agroprocessing.

SG2000-Uganda was under the leadership of Dr. Michael Foster from 1996 to 2007, who was then succeeded by Emmanuel Kayaako as interim director in 2008, and subsequently by Dr. Sarah Osiya and then Dr. Roselline Nyamutale as Country Directors in 2010 and 2011, respectively.