Business & Management
Farmers’ Preferences Drive Success in Tree-Planting, Duke Scholar Finds
Study Finds Farmers Prefer Boundary Tree Planting, Challenging Conventional Afforestation Programs
UK-based Duke University Postdoctoral Scholar Dr. Danny Tobin has highlighted the crucial role of farmers’ preferences in shaping successful tree-planting programs. Speaking at Makerere University’s Environment for Development (EfD) Centre, Tobin presented findings from a study on smallholder farmers in southern India, exploring why they choose certain tree species and planting systems within an NGO-led afforestation program.
The study titled, “Guiding Private Afforestation to raise public-Goods Provision : Exploring Farmers preferences for trees within an NGO Tree planting program in Southern India” was presented to a research seminar at Makerere University on March 9, 2026.
Dr. Tobin presented what drives communities to take up different kinds of tree species, and even the planting system that they use, either planting on the boundary, intercropping, or cluster planting these different trees, either forest trees, timber trees, or the fruit and medicinal plants.
The study revealed that smallholder farmers strongly prefer planting trees along farm boundaries rather than within their crop fields, a finding that could significantly reshape the design of afforestation and agroforestry programs aimed at addressing climate change and biodiversity loss. The research examined how farmers make decisions about tree planting on private agricultural land and found that preferences vary widely depending on farmers’ economic conditions, farming practices, and environmental challenges. The study emphasizes that tree-planting initiatives must be carefully designed to align with farmers’ priorities if they are to deliver both environmental and livelihood benefits.
The research focused on smallholder farmers living within five kilometers of two protected areas in the southern Indian state of Karnataka. Using a structured survey method known as a discrete choice experiment, the study collected responses from 400 farmers who were presented with different tree-planting options, including timber, fruit, mixed species, and medicinal trees arranged in various planting patterns such as farm boundaries, intercropping within fields, or clustered plots. The results showed a clear preference for planting timber trees along farm boundaries, which farmers viewed as the least disruptive to crop production and farm management.
According to the study findings, most farmers were willing to adopt boundary planting even without financial incentives. In contrast, options that required planting trees within crop fields such as fruit intercropping or clustered mixed-species plantations generally required compensation to encourage adoption. Programs that aimed to create dense clusters of mixed trees to support biodiversity would require the highest level of incentives, as these arrangements compete directly with agricultural land use.
The study also identified several factors that influence farmers’ willingness to plant trees. Farmers with better resources such as higher income levels, irrigation systems, and higher education were generally more willing to adopt tree planting. Conversely, farmers with smaller land holdings, lower incomes, and harsher environmental conditions were less likely to adopt tree planting options. These results highlight how economic capacity and farm productivity shape decisions about integrating trees into agricultural landscapes.
Another important finding relates to human-wildlife conflict, a major challenge for farmers living near protected areas. The study found that farmers experiencing frequent wildlife damage were significantly less interested in planting fruit trees along their farm boundaries because fruit trees could attract animals such as elephants and wild boar. Instead, these farmers preferred timber trees, which they believed might help shield crops from wildlife intrusion.
Despite the overall preference for boundary planting, the research also revealed a surprising opportunity for biodiversity-focused interventions. About one-third of the farmers surveyed indicated that they would be willing to plant fruit trees inside their fields through intercropping or orchard-style arrangements without requiring compensation. This group represents a key target for programs seeking to increase tree cover and habitat connectivity in agricultural landscapes.
Based on these findings, the study recommends that afforestation programs avoid rigid, one-size-fits-all approaches. Instead of targeting farmers based on observable characteristics such as age, income, or land size which the study found to be unreliable predictors of preferences the research suggests offering farmers a menu of tree-planting options. This flexible approach would allow farmers to choose arrangements that best fit their land, resources, and risk tolerance while still contributing to environmental goals.
The study concludes that successful tree-planting programs must balance environmental objectives with farmers’ economic realities. By incorporating farmers’ preferences into program design and offering flexible participation options, policymakers and environmental organizations can increase adoption rates, improve tree survival, and enhance the long-term benefits of afforestation initiatives for both rural livelihoods and the environment.
In his welcome remarks the Director EfD Makerere Centre, Prof. Edward Bbaale, underscored the importance of aligning environmental programs with farmers’ needs if afforestation initiatives are to succeed.
Prof. Bbaale said the EfD committed to rigorous research at the intersection of environment, natural resources, and economic development. He noted that the centre regularly organizes research seminars to create a platform for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to exchange ideas, present ongoing research, and engage in constructive academic dialogue on pressing development challenges.
Welcoming Dr. Tobin to the seminar, Bbaale highlighted the longstanding collaboration between the EfD Mak Centre and Jeffrey Vincent, Professor of Forest Economics and Management at the Nicholas School of the Environment at Duke University. He explained that the partnership has produced important research on forestry, land use, and rural livelihoods over the past several years.
He pointed to a recent joint study conducted under the leadership of Patrick Byakagaba, a Senior Research Fellow at the EfD MakCentre, which examines the livelihood impacts of forest plantations on state-owned land. The research, titled Differential Livelihood Impacts of Eucalyptus and Pine Plantations on State-Owned Land, has been accepted for publication in the Journal of Forest Economics, marking what Prof. Bbaale described as the culmination of more than four years of collaborative work involving data collection and analysis.
According to Bbaale, the seminar by Dr. Tobin builds on this strong partnership and reflects the growing collaboration between Makerere researchers and international scholars. He said the study being presented was co-authored with Prof. Vincent and addresses an issue of growing global and regional importance—how tree-planting programs can be designed to meet both environmental goals and the livelihood needs of farmers.
“The topic is highly relevant, not only to the global agenda on climate change mitigation and landscape restoration, but also to policy discussions taking place in Africa and Uganda in particular,” Prof. Bbaale said. He explained that as countries expand afforestation and reforestation initiatives, it is essential to understand farmers’ incentives, preferences, and livelihood realities to ensure that such programs achieve their intended ecological and social outcomes.
He noted that research like Dr. Tobin’s provides valuable insights into how private land-use decisions can be guided to generate both private benefits for farmers and broader public goods such as carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, and improved ecosystem services.
Prof. Bbaale also emphasized that the seminar reflects Makerere University’s growing focus on internationalization and research partnerships as the institution strengthens its position as a research-led university. He said collaborations with global institutions such as Duke University are critical for advancing knowledge, producing impactful research, and addressing complex environmental and development challenges.
He welcomed Dr. Tobin’s visit to Uganda as an important opportunity for knowledge exchange and engagement with students and researchers at the university. Prof. Bbaale concluded by expressing appreciation for the continued collaboration with Duke University scholars and said the centre looked forward to further joint research initiatives in the future.
Call for Stronger Research–Private Sector Linkages in Environmental Conservation
The Deputy Director of the EfD Mak Centre, Dr. Alice Turinawe, emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between researchers, the private sector, and other stakeholders to ensure that environmental conservation research translates into practical solutions.
Speaking during the closing session, Dr. Turinawe thanked participants for their active engagement and highlighted the importance of sharing research widely so that it can be improved through feedback and dialogue. She noted that meaningful environmental solutions emerge when research findings are openly discussed and refined by diverse stakeholders.
Dr. Turinawe also commended the seminar presentation by visiting researcher Dr. Tobin, which explored conservation approaches and partnerships with farmers. She said the presentation underscored the importance of examining both private and public benefits in environmental interventions. According to her, such partnerships are essential for ensuring that conservation initiatives are both economically viable and socially beneficial.
She stressed that the EfD Mak Centre places strong emphasis on research that bridges the gap between academic work and real-world application. “One of our key goals is to ensure that the research conducted in our offices and in the field is connected to the private sector and other stakeholders who can implement the findings,” she said.
Dr. Turinawe further encouraged researchers to ensure that their findings are disseminated widely through platforms that can influence policy, development programs, and community practices. She noted that the impact of research depends largely on how effectively the results are shared and utilized.
She concluded by appreciating the scholars and participants who attended the seminar despite their busy academic schedules, noting that their engagement keeps the centre’s research community vibrant and productive.
The EfD Mak Centre, based at Makerere University, focuses on generating evidence to support environmental and natural resource policy decisions. The centre brings together academia, policymakers, and practitioners to strengthen the use of economic evidence in addressing environmental challenges.
Practical and Policy-Relevant Insights Appreciated
Overall, participants noted that the seminar provided both practical and policy-relevant insights into understanding farmers’ preferences, improving tree-planting programs,and supporting sustainable environmental and economic outcomes.
EfD-Mak Centre Manager Gyaviira Ssewankambo said the study offered valuable insights into what motivates farmers to adopt different tree species such as forest trees, timber varieties, and medicinal plants. He explained that the research also addressed challenges faced by farmers, including the risks posed by wildlife. In some cases, farmers living near game parks avoid planting fruit trees for fear that animals such as elephants could destroy their crops. According to Ssewankambo, these experiences mirror situations in communities near protected areas in Uganda, suggesting that lessons from India could help shape local strategies for promoting afforestation.
“Dr. Danny Tobin presented a very insightful study from India about forestry—what drives communities to take up different tree species, and the planting systems they use, whether on boundaries, intercropping, or cluster planting. We hope our Ugandan community can learn lessons, especially on issues like wildlife affecting fruit tree planting near game parks.”
He added that the study also examined the economic trade-offs farmers face when allocating land to trees rather than crops. While tree planting offers environmental and long-term economic benefits, farmers must weigh these gains against the immediate need for space to grow food crops. Ssewankambo expressed optimism that once the research is fully completed, it could provide important lessons for Uganda, just as EfD previously drew inspiration from forestry experiences in Nepal.
For Joab Wamani, an assistant lecturer at the School of Economics, the seminar was particularly valuable for its methodological insights. He noted that beyond the presentation’s clear communication, the research design and conceptualisation stood out. Wamani said the way the study framed its research questions and selected methods offered important learning points for researchers seeking to conduct rigorous environmental economics studies.
“His slides were clear and inspiring, but what really interested me was the research design—the way he conceptualised the topic, developed his research questions, and chose his methods. That was the main knowledge I took away.”
Students who attended the seminar also reflected on practical lessons for farming and environmental management. Nyeko Francis, a Master’s student in Economic and Investment Modelling, said the discussion encouraged him to view tree planting as a routine agricultural activity rather than something done only for environmental protection.
“I learned that tree planting can be normalised like any other crop activity. For example, planting mangoes or oranges in a designated area can be planned and managed like a crop garden. Tree planting is more than just protecting boundaries—it can be integrated into regular farming for better yield.”
Similarly, doctoral student Mansur Sewali, a development economist specialising in economic policy and planning, said the seminar highlighted the broader benefits of afforestation. While tree planting brings direct returns to farmers, he noted that the environmental benefits extend to society as a whole, illustrating the connection between private investment and public good.
“Despite tree planting benefiting the individual farmer, these benefits can also pass on to society at large. That was the key point I took from the seminar.”
EfD research fellow Aisha Nanyiti emphasised the importance of incentives in promoting tree planting. She explained that countries like Uganda, where forests are rapidly being depleted, can benefit from policies that encourage farmers to adopt sustainable practices. Nanyiti said the study showed that many farmers prefer planting trees along farm boundaries, though some also favour intercropping trees with other crops. She added that continuous training and community sensitisation are essential to ensure both the adoption and survival of trees.
“Farmers in India appreciated planting trees along boundaries and in intercropping systems. The key takeaway is that incentivising farmers is essential for adoption, but ongoing training and community sensitisation are equally important to ensure tree survival and environmental restoration.”
Another student, Nichirange Edida, said the seminar reinforced the importance of tree planting in addressing climate change and environmental conservation. He noted that boundary planting and intercropping allow farmers to maintain crop production while also protecting the environment. Inspired by the discussion, Edida said he hopes to apply these practices in his own farming activities.
“This seminar taught me how farmers can address climate change through planting trees, especially on boundaries and through intercropping. It conserves the environment while allowing farmers to grow fruit and timber trees. I believe I can apply this in my own farming.”
Jane Anyango is the Communication Officer, EfD-Mak Centre
The Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIM CoE) at Makerere University is set to benefit from a grant under the World Bank-supported PIM-Plus Project, an initiative aimed at strengthening Public Investment Management Systems and enhancing the capacity for effective project planning, appraisal, implementation, and monitoring in Uganda.
Through the project, the Centre is expected to receive funding of approximately USD 8 million to support the construction of a modern teaching and residential facility. The proposed infrastructure is intended to enhance the Centre’s capacity to deliver high-quality training, research and technical advisory services in Public Investment Management (PIM) to government institutions and other stakeholders across the region and beyond.
The project’s construction activities are anticipated to commence in the next financial year following the completion of the necessary preparatory processes, including feasibility studies and project design.
As part of the ongoing project preparation activities, the PIM CoE today hosted a delegation of officials from the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED), who visited the Centre to assess progress made towards the implementation of the PIM-Plus Project. The visit provided an opportunity for the Ministry team to review the Centre’s readiness, discuss key project milestones, and identify areas requiring further attention to ensure timely project execution.
The Ministry delegation was led by Ms. Esther Ayebare, Ag. Assistant Commissioner, Public Investments and Project Analysis Department who commended the Centre for the progress registered thus far. She emphasized the importance of adhering to the project preparation timelines and urged the PIM CoE team to expedite the completion of the feasibility studies and other prerequisite activities necessary for project approval and commencement.
Ms. Ayebare noted that the successful implementation of the project will significantly strengthen the Centre’s role as a national and regional hub for capacity building, research and knowledge dissemination in Public Investment Management. She further underscored the Government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance the quality of public investments and contribute to improved service delivery and sustainable economic development.
The Director of the PIM Centre, Prof. Edward Bbaale reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to ensuring that all project preparation requirements are completed within the stipulated timelines. He noted that the planned facility will provide a conducive environment for training, accommodation and collaborative learning thereby strengthening the Centre’s ability to support the Country in developing and managing high-quality investment projects.
Dr. John Sseruyange, the Manager of the PIM Centre of Excellence emphasized that the Centre remains committed to delivering high-quality, demand-driven training courses that respond to the evolving needs of Public Investment Management practitioners and contribute to the successful implementation of Uganda’s Public Investment Management reform agenda. He further noted that the project will enable the Centre to effectively fulfil its mandate and contribute more meaningfully to addressing PIM capacity constraints in the region. The PIM-Plus Project forms part of broader efforts by the Government of Uganda and its development partners to improve the efficiency, effectiveness and impact of public investments, ensuring that public resources are directed towards projects that deliver maximum socio-economic benefits for citizens.
Jinja | July 3, 2026
The Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence at Makerere University, in partnership with the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED), has graduated the fourth cohort of officers trained in Integrated Regulatory Cost-Benefit Analysis (IRCBA) and the preparation of Certificates of Financial Implications (CFIs), marking another milestone in strengthening evidence-based policymaking and fiscal governance in Uganda.
A total of 40 officers from various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) successfully completed the intensive two-week Capacity Building Training on the Guidelines for Financial Clearance, culminating in the award of certificates during a closing ceremony held in Jinja.
The programme, jointly implemented by the PIM Centre of Excellence and the Ministry’s Infrastructure and Social Services Department (ISSD), equips public officers with practical skills to prepare robust Statements of Financial Implications that support the issuance of Certificates of Financial Implication (CFIs) in accordance with the revised Guidelines that came into effect on 1 July 2025.
Building a critical mass of public sector analysts
Representing the Ministry of Finance, Commissioner Henry Mwanja, Commissioner for the Infrastructure and Social Services Department, congratulated the participants for successfully completing the demanding programme despite their responsibilities related to implementation of the Fourth National Development Plan, the Tenfold Growth Strategy and the FY2026/27 Budget.
He described the revised Guidelines for the Issuance of Certificates of Financial Implication as a major reform aimed at making public policy development more transparent, consultative and analytically rigorous.
According to the Commissioner, participants are now better equipped to assess fiscal implications, evaluate broader economic impacts, identify distributional effects, manage uncertainty and undertake Integrated Regulatory Cost-Benefit Analysis in a structured and consistent manner.
However, he reminded participants that the value of the training would only be realised through practical application.
“The knowledge, tools and skills you have acquired must now be consistently applied in your day-to-day work. Analytical rigour must become routine practice, not an occasional exercise,” he emphasized.
He added that the Ministry would continue expanding the programme to train more officers across Government as part of efforts to institutionalize evidence-based policymaking and strengthen fiscal sustainability.
Participants urged to champion evidence-based policymaking
Prof. Edward Bbaale, Director of the PIM Centre of Excellence, commended participants for their dedication, discipline and active engagement throughout the programme.
He noted that the training had equipped participants with analytical tools to assess the financial, socio-economic, distributive and risk implications of proposed Bills, policies and legislation, enabling them to prepare stronger and more credible Statements of Financial Implications.
“The true success of this training will not be measured by the discussions held here, but by how effectively you apply this knowledge within your respective Ministries, Departments and Agencies,” Prof. Bbaale said.
He challenged participants to become ambassadors of Integrated Regulatory Cost-Benefit Analysis by promoting analytical rigour, mentoring colleagues and strengthening evidence-based decision-making across government institutions.
Prof. Bbaale also applauded the long-standing collaboration between Makerere University and the Ministry of Finance, describing it as a model partnership that successfully bridges academia and public service to strengthen public financial management in Uganda.
Beyond capacity building, he highlighted the Centre’s growing contribution to public investment reforms through research, policy advisory and technical support, including its role in revising Development Committee Guidelines and assessing Uganda’s public investment performance.
Highest-performing cohort celebrated
Speaking on behalf of the PIM Centre of Excellence, Dr. John Sseruyange, Manager of the Centre, thanked the Ministry of Finance, particularly the Infrastructure and Social Services Department, for its continued partnership in implementing the programme.
He observed that each successive cohort had benefited from continuous improvements in the curriculum and delivery of the training.
Dr. Sseruyange also applauded the PIM Centre faculty, facilitators from the Ministry of Finance, Uganda Development Bank (UDB) and the Office of the Prime Minister, as well as the communications, administrative and logistical teams whose efforts contributed to the success of the programme.
He reserved special praise for the participants, describing them as one of the most engaged groups the Centre has trained.
“They asked thoughtful questions, managed time exceptionally well and demonstrated remarkable commitment throughout the two weeks,” he said.
Dr. Sseruyange revealed that the fourth cohort had achieved the highest average assessment score among all the cohorts trained so far, attributing the performance to participants’ attentiveness and dedication.
He encouraged the graduates to continue practising the analytical skills acquired during the training, assuring them that the PIM Centre of Excellence would remain available to provide technical support whenever needed.
“Keep improving yourselves. When you improve your skills, your institutions benefit from your expertise,” he advised.
Participants applaud facilitators
Delivering remarks on behalf of the trainees, Baguma Asuman expressed gratitude to the Government, sponsors and facilitators for delivering what he described as an enriching and transformative learning experience.
He noted that despite the intensive nature of the programme, participants had gained practical knowledge that would significantly improve the preparation of Statements of Financial Implications.
Baguma commended the facilitators for patiently responding to every question raised during the sessions and ensuring that every participant fully understood the concepts taught.
He also thanked fellow participants for their active contributions and encouraged them to apply the knowledge gained in their respective institutions to improve public policy analysis and financial planning.
The participants further appreciated the organizers and hotel management for the excellent coordination and hospitality throughout the two-week residential programme.
The ceremony concluded with the award of certificates to the 29 participants, marking the successful completion of the fourth cohort and reaffirming the commitment of Makerere University and the Ministry of Finance to building a cadre of public officers capable of strengthening evidence-based policymaking, improving fiscal discipline and enhancing the quality of public investment decisions in Uganda.
Makerere University Environment for Development Initiative (EfD- Mak Centre) has graduated five senior government officials under the 2025 Inclusive Green Economy (IGE) Fellowship Programme, equipping them with advanced knowledge and skills to champion climate-smart agriculture (CSA) and sustainable development in Uganda.
The fellows graduated during a ceremony held on Thursday June 25, 2026 at the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute, Kabanyolo (MUARIK), where university leaders, government representatives, development partners, researchers and policymakers gathered to celebrate the completion of the year-long training programme.
The graduates included Eng. Thomas Epeet from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries; Ms. Getrude Basiima, a Commissioner in the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development; Mr. Nicholas Magara from the Ministry of Water and Environment; Ms. Irene Kemigisha from the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development; and Mr. Boaz Tumusiime Mboijana from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Professor Robert Wamala congratulated the fellows for successfully completing what he described as a rigorous and impactful programme that lasted one year.
“Today’s graduation is more than a celebration of academic achievement. It is a testament to our collective commitment to building the knowledge, skills and partnerships required to address one of the defining challenges of our time — climate change and its effects on agriculture, livelihoods and sustainable development,” Wamala said.
He noted that the 2025 cohort undertook training under the theme, “Accelerating the Adoption of Climate-Smart Agriculture,” which aligns closely with Makerere University‘s research agenda on agricultural transformation, food security and livelihoods.
According to Wamala, climate variability and environmental degradation continue to threaten agricultural production, food security and rural livelihoods, making the need for innovative, evidence-based and scalable solutions increasingly urgent.
Through the fellowship, participants gained practical exposure to climate-smart irrigation technologies, resilient farming systems, soil and water conservation practices, and other innovations aimed at strengthening agricultural productivity and resilience.
“The experiences have equipped our fellows not only with technical competencies but also with the capacity to translate knowledge into practical solutions for communities and institutions,” he said.
The programme is implemented by the Environment for Development (EfD) Initiative through the EfD-Makerere Centre and is funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). It seeks to strengthen evidence-based policymaking by bridging the gap between research and policy while promoting the use of economic policy instruments to support a just green transition.
Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Edward Bbaale, Director of the EfD-Makerere Centre and Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences(CoBAMS), said the fellowship targets senior civil servants and policymakers from Eastern Africa to strengthen their capacity to formulate and implement green economy policies.
“The goal is to promote the use of economic policy instruments to achieve a just green transition. The programme bridges gaps between research and policy and between researchers and policymakers to strengthen evidence-based decision-making,” Bbaale said.
Since its inception, the programme has trained 30 senior policymakers drawn from ministries, departments and agencies across the region.
Bbaale said, one of the programme’s unique features is its regional approach, which enables fellows from Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Tanzania and South Africa to share experiences and learn from one another’s policy interventions.
“We are able to learn from what other governments are doing in these Eastern African countries, compare with our policy environment and identify solutions that can work back home,” he said.
The 2025 cohort focused on accelerating climate-smart agriculture adoption, a priority area as governments seek to mitigate the impacts of climate change on food production and rural livelihoods.
Bbaale announced that the next cohort, to be recruited later this year, will focus on forestry and water management. The programme intends to recruit five additional senior government officials from institutions including the Ministry of Water and Environment, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the National Planning Authority (NPA), and the Ministry of Finance.
Host institution MUARIK also used the occasion to highlight its contribution to agricultural research and innovation.
Welcoming guests to the institute, MUARIK Director Dr. Peter Ebanyat described the facility as a leading centre for agricultural research, training and innovation whose history dates back to 1953.
He noted that the institute has played a significant role in developing agricultural technologies that have had national impact, including the development of soybean varieties grown across Uganda.
“Our vision is to be a thought leader in sustainable agricultural and environmental innovations. Our mission is to generate and disseminate knowledge, innovations and technologies through research, training and community engagement for improved agricultural productivity, environmental sustainability and rural livelihoods,” Ebanyat said.
He said hosting the graduation was particularly significant because MUARIK serves as a living laboratory where researchers, students, policymakers and development practitioners interact to generate solutions to challenges facing the agricultural sector.
The graduation ceremony underscored the growing importance of partnerships among universities, governments and development agencies in addressing climate change, promoting food security and advancing inclusive green growth across Uganda and the wider East African region.
As the fellows return to their respective institutions, university leaders challenged them to become ambassadors of climate-smart agriculture and champions of sustainable development, using the knowledge acquired through the programme to influence policies, strengthen resilience and improve livelihoods in their sectors.
The Inclusive Green Economy Fellowship Programme will continue until 2027 under Sida funding, with Makerere University remaining one of the key regional centres driving research, policy engagement and capacity building for sustainable development.
Graduating Fellows Call for Stronger Climate-Smart Agriculture Policies
Senior government officials who completed Makerere University‘s IGE Fellowship Programme called for stronger policy interventions, increased investment and wider public awareness to accelerate the adoption of climate-smart agriculture in Uganda.
The senior civil servants highlighted climate change as a growing threat to agriculture, food security and rural livelihoods.
Speaking on the sidelines of the graduation ceremony, Makerere University‘s Policy Engagement Specialist and coordinator of the programme, Dr. Peter Babyenda, said the 2025 cohort focused on developing policy instruments that can accelerate the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices across the country.
“This cohort has been looking at accelerating the adoption of climate-smart agriculture because agriculture remains the backbone of Uganda’s economy and one of the sectors most affected by climate change,” Babyenda said.
He explained that the year-long fellowship trains senior civil servants and policymakers to design economic and policy incentives that promote environmentally sustainable development.
According to Babyenda, previous cohorts focused on issues such as clean cooking energy, biomass reduction and electric mobility, while the latest group examined how government can encourage farmers to adopt climate-smart technologies such as solar-powered irrigation systems and sustainable farming practices.
“We have trained them on how to design policy packages and interventions that encourage adoption of climate-smart agriculture and improve resilience among farming communities,” he said.
The graduation brought the number of fellows trained under the Sida-funded programme to 30 since its inception. The initiative is implemented by Makerere University‘s Environment for Development (EfD) Centre in partnership with the University of Gothenburg in Sweden.
Babyenda revealed that the next cohort, expected to be recruited later this year, will focus on forestry and water management as part of efforts to reduce emissions and strengthen climate resilience.
He also disclosed that Makerere University is considering upgrading the fellowship into an academic programme offering diploma and master’s qualifications in green economy studies.
“We are already developing a curriculum. The idea is to transform this capacity-building programme into an academic award programme that could eventually offer both diploma and master’s degrees in green economy,” he said.
Representing the graduating fellows, Engineer Thomas Epeet from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries said climate-smart agriculture is critical to safeguarding Uganda’s agricultural sector against the effects of climate variability.
“Agriculture contributes significantly to employment, rural livelihoods and the country’s GDP. However, prolonged droughts and erratic rainfall patterns are threatening production, making climate-smart agriculture more important than ever,” Epeet said.
The fellows identified weak extension services, limited awareness, counterfeit agricultural inputs and inadequate access to modern technologies as some of the major barriers to the adoption of climate-smart agriculture.
Epeet said the cohort’s research found that women farmers face particular challenges, including limited access to land ownership and agricultural resources, which affects their ability to adopt climate-smart practices.
He called for stronger involvement of the private sector in supplying quality agricultural technologies and inputs needed to support sustainable farming.
“The private sector has a critical role in providing irrigation equipment, improved seeds and other technologies that farmers need. Without a strong private sector, government interventions alone may not achieve the desired impact,” he said.
Nicholas Magara, Acting Assistant Commissioner in the Ministry of Water and Environment, said the training had equipped him with practical knowledge on how economic incentives can be used to address climate-related challenges.
He noted that environmental degradation, including forest and wetland destruction, continues to affect rainfall patterns and agricultural productivity.
“As policymakers, we must encourage farmers not to depend solely on natural weather patterns. Technologies such as irrigation, mulching and minimum tillage are becoming increasingly important in ensuring year-round production,” Magara said.
He recommended expanding the programme to accommodate more participants and upgrading it from a certificate programme to a diploma-level qualification.
“The content is extensive and highly professional. It deserves a higher academic recognition,” he added.
Irene Kemigisha, an economist from the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, emphasized the need to strengthen land tenure security, particularly for women, to improve access to credit and increase investment in climate-smart agriculture.
She said many women are unable to access agricultural financing because they lack land ownership documents that financial institutions require as collateral.
“We need to ensure that women have secure land rights and access to affordable agricultural credit if we are serious about increasing adoption of climate-smart agriculture,” Kemigisha said.
She also called for stronger agricultural extension services and improved market access for farmers to ensure that increased productivity translates into higher incomes.
Meanwhile, Boaz Tumusiime from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities said the programme had highlighted the strong links between climate change, agriculture and tourism.
He said participants discovered that many climate-smart solutions already exist, but limited dissemination of information continues to slow adoption.
“Our transformative initiative focused on improving access to information and climate-smart solutions because the biggest challenge is often the gap between researchers, policymakers and the public,” Tumusiime said.
He praised the programme’s regional approach, which allows participants from Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Ethiopia to share experiences and learn from successful policies implemented across East Africa.
The fellows urged government, development partners and academic institutions to expand climate-smart agriculture training beyond senior civil servants to include private sector actors and grassroots agricultural practitioners.
They argued that broader participation would help accelerate the adoption of sustainable farming practices needed to strengthen food security, improve rural livelihoods and support Uganda’s climate adaptation efforts.
Panelists Call for Climate-Smart Agriculture Integration
The graduation ceremony was also marked by a roundtable discussion moderated by Prof. Edward Bbaale.and focused on how Uganda can integrate climate-smart agriculture into its national development agenda. The dialogue brought together leading academics, policymakers and development practitioners to explore strategies for sustainable agricultural transformation.
Key discussants included Prof. Robert Wamala, Director of Research, Innovations and Partnerships at Makerere University; Michael Ahimbisibwe from the National Planning Authority (NPA), representing Dr. Ronald Kaggwa; Victor Olejje from SunCulture Uganda; Wilson Asiimwe from the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, representing Dr. Sam Koojo; and Robert Turyakira from AGHNET.
The discussions highlighted Makerere University‘s commitment to research translation and intellectual property protection, the National Planning Authority’s emphasis on climate-smart agriculture as a key driver of economic growth, and the Ministry of Finance’s focus on integrated financing and market alignment. The panel also underscored the importance of ensuring that climate-smart interventions are properly costed, financed and implemented.
Responding to a question on how Makerere University is strengthening the translation of research into climate-smart solutions, Prof. Robert Wamala, Director of Research, Innovations and Partnerships at Makerere University, explained that the institution coordinates research across its nine colleges under strategic themes, including agricultural transformation. He noted that Makerere has established an Innovation and Technology Support Centre to help researchers protect intellectual property, build industry partnerships, and commercialize innovations.
“We are developing a Research Impact Framework so that every project considers its long-term effect on policy and community livelihoods right from the design stage,” Prof. Wamala said.
He added, “An idea is not truly yours until it is protected,” emphasizing the importance of patents and copyrights in transforming research into sustainable livelihoods.
Addressing the role of climate-smart agriculture in advancing Uganda’s Tenfold Growth Strategy, Michael Ahimbisibwe, representing the National Planning Authority, emphasized that climate-smart agriculture is central to both the strategy and Uganda’s Vision 2040. He outlined its contribution to ensuring sustainable raw material supplies, building resilience to climate change, enhancing export competitiveness, supporting inclusive livelihoods and unlocking access to green financing.
“By embedding these approaches, agriculture becomes the backbone of our growth strategy,” Ahimbisibwe said, pointing to drought-tolerant crop varieties, water harvesting technologies, and compliance with international trade standards as critical interventions.
Responding to a question on how public investment and financing mechanisms can support climate-smart agriculture, Wilson Asiimwe from the Ministry of Finance argued that climate-smart agriculture must be approached holistically, with policies integrated across sectors. He explained that government investments, such as valley dams for livestock production, should be aligned with existing development programmes, while additional financing can be mobilized through carbon credit schemes, climate funds, and international grants.
“Productivity must be matched with markets; otherwise, we risk food mountains with no buyers,” Asiimwe cautioned.
He further noted that emerging export regulations, such as the European Union’s deforestation requirements, make climate-smart agricultural practices essential not only for environmental sustainability but also for maintaining trade competitiveness.
Explaining how planning processes ensure that interventions are properly costed and implemented, Ahimbisibwe further noted that planning serves as the bridge between policy and financing. Under Uganda’s National Development Plan IV, the government employs a programme-based approach, with agro-industrialization identified as a key programme. Each programme includes costed interventions that are monitored annually through compliance assessment mechanisms.
“This way, climate-smart agriculture is not just a policy idea but a funded and monitored reality,” he said, stressing that planning ensures government allocations, releases, and expenditures remain aligned with national development priorities.
The panel underscored a shared vision in which Makerere University drives research translation and intellectual property protection, the National Planning Authority positions climate-smart agriculture as a pillar of economic growth, the Ministry of Finance ensures integrated financing and market alignment, and planning frameworks guarantee effective implementation of costed interventions. Together, these efforts aim to embed climate-smart agriculture at the heart of Uganda’s long-term development strategy.
Compiled and written by Jane Anyango, Communication Officer
Photo Credits: Peninah Nalubega
(Fourth-Year Journalism and Communication Student)
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