There has been a call for the government to establish mechanisms to preserve and promote indigenous seeds and animal breeds, as proposed by Bufumbira East County representative, Hon. James Nsaba Buturo.
The motion put forward by Nsaba Buturo, which received widespread support from legislators, urges the government to take action in safeguarding, preserving, and promoting traditional seeds and breeds to counter the growing influence of multinational organizations promoting genetically modified seeds and breeds (GMOs).
Nsaba Buturo highlighted that these multinational companies are pushing for control of the seed sector globally, which could result in the extinction of traditional seeds in Uganda. He emphasized the need for government intervention to prevent dependence on these companies, ensuring seed security and political stability.
He also stressed the benefits of traditional seeds in terms of affordability, accessibility, taste, and adaptability to local conditions compared to GMOs or improved seeds.
The motion calls for the creation of policies to protect traditional seeds and breeds, funding for research on seed preservation, and farmer education on identifying and preserving quality seeds and breeds. Additionally, Nsaba Buturo proposed the establishment of a department within the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries dedicated to promoting, preserving, and protecting traditional/indigenous seeds and breeds.
Legislators acknowledged the urgency of addressing the threats posed by GMOs, with suggestions to learn from countries like South Africa that successfully preserved their indigenous breeds. Concerns were also raised about the negative impact of improved seeds on soil quality and the reliance on fertilizers and chemicals.
The importance of legislative measures to support the preservation and promotion of traditional breeds and seeds was emphasized, specifically in light of climate change effects. Members highlighted the resilience of indigenous seeds to climate challenges and the potential of traditional breeds if effectively promoted.
The Minister of State for Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives expressed government support for the motion, recognizing the value of traditional seeds and breeds in adapting to changing climate conditions.
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