Uganda plans to put nearly $10 million to phase III of a South-South Co-operation project that also involves the participation of China and the Food and Agriculture Organization(FAO). Kampala will put in $9,623,703 in this project through a Unilateral Trust Fund (UTF), which will complement $2,389,138 from the Chinese Government in partnership with FAO and China South-South Cooperation (SSC) Programme.
An agreement has already been sealed between FAO and Kampala to support phase III of the project. The deal was signed by Uganda Finance Minister Matia Kasaijia and Antonio Querido- FAO Representative.
Phase III of this project will focus on establishing an integrated technology transfer base, creating high-yielding rice growing schemes and foxtail millet, livestock improvement and the aquaculture value addition.
According to Querido, the East African country’s contribution of phase III of the project is a resounding vote of confidence in the SSC project and its positive impact on the livelihoods of Ugandan farmers and their dependents.
This project is expected to benefit some 9,600 farmers, primarily women and provide technical training to 200 officers in Uganda and China.
China’s technical assistance to the East African nation under Phases I and II has already brought significant results, addressing the East African country’s longstanding issues of poor agricultural productivity.
Uganda has already implemented phase I&II
Phases I and II were carried out under a cost-sharing arrangement between the Governments of China, Kampala and FAO.
The Government of China provided financial and technical resources, while Kampala provided in-kind contributions, including lodging, transportation, medical services and health insurance for the Chinese staff.
FAO provided technical support, backstopping, and project supervision and monitoring.
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