The social action arm of the Catholic Church in Uganda announced the establishment of three agricultural academies to professionalize small-scale farmers.
In a Vatican News interview, Fr. Hilary Muheezangango, National Director of Caritas Uganda, said the initiative responds to the growing influence of large industrial farms and transnational corporations in agriculture.
These academies aim to equip farmers with techniques, strategies, and skills to enhance their productivity. The program seeks to improve food production and ensure farmers retain control over their land and livelihoods.
Fr. Muheezangango expressed concerns about the push for global food production to meet the needs of an anticipated population of 10 billion by 2050.
He criticized the acquisition of land by large corporations, calling it detrimental to local communities and emphasizing that it prioritizes profit over food security and sustainable development.
“I know that some capitalists are looking to take over land from small-scale farmers…I think it is a bad ambition because it stops people from working for themselves,” he said
Fr. Muheezangango highlighted the issue of small-scale farmers losing land to corporations, noting the negative impact on local food security.
“Small-scale farmers have lost land to these corporates and in most cases, the food grown does not stay in the country…I think that is a bad motive,” he said.
He stressed the importance of individuals pursuing their development, reflecting Caritas Uganda’s approach. “God created us and wants us to work for ourselves…I think this is wrong,” the priest insisted.
Agriculture is crucial to Uganda’s economy, with a significant portion of the population engaged in the sector. Despite its importance, many small-scale farmers live below the poverty line.
