Uganda's avocado future: sector platform to propel growth and unlock global market opportunities
The Uganda Avocado Platform aims to drive growth and competitiveness in the sector, positioning the country as an important player in the global avocado market. Stakeholders are committed to addressing challenges and unlocking new export opportunities through collaboration and strategic coordination.
On November 20-21, 2024, key stakeholders gathered in Kampala to discuss the activation of the Uganda Avocado Platform. The two-day meeting organized with support from second phase of the European Union (EU) funded EU-East African Community Market Access Upgrade Program (MARKUP II), brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts who all supported the establishment of a platform aimed at guiding policy, decision-making, and sector coordination.
During the meeting, participants explored opportunities for accessing new markets, assessed current challenges, and prioritized key issues. They also started developing a roadmap to establish a unified vision for the sector’s development.
Avocados have become a key focus under Uganda’s Agro-Industrialization Program in the National Development Plan IV. Thanks to the country’s favorable agro-climatic conditions, Uganda is well-positioned to become a competitive player in the global avocado market. In 2023, Uganda exported $5.1 million worth of avocados, primarily to the Middle East via air freight. However, despite this growth, the sector still faces significant challenges, such as logistics issues, high export costs, and competition from regional players.
One major opportunity lies in expanding exports through sea freight, which could reduce costs and open larger international markets. However, to realize this potential, Uganda must address key challenges, including improving logistics, meeting international standards, and enhancing value chain coordination.
"The private sector is committed to driving Uganda’s avocado industry. By bridging critical farm-to-market information gaps, providing farmer training, and supporting acquisition of certifications to access high end markets, we are creating a strong foundation for sustainable growth. With plans for the second sea shipment in 2025 and the establishment of weekly Hass avocado markets, Uganda is not just growing avocados—it is shaping a success story that will make waves in global markets. The sector’s transformation is underway, and we are proud to be part of this exciting journey." – Prisca Beesigomwe, Head of operations and programs HortiFresh, coordinator and head of secretariat for COMESA-EAC Horticulture Accelerator (CEHA) Uganda.
The Uganda Avocado Platform will be a private-sector-led initiative, involving representatives from private associations, public institutions, and research institutions. It will play a vital role in aligning efforts across the value chain, advocating for supportive policies, and fostering partnerships to unlock new growth opportunities. By working together, the platform aims to position Uganda as a strong player in the global avocado industry.
"The success of Uganda's agricultural sector relies on collaborative efforts, and public-private platforms play a pivotal role in driving this progress. As we focus on avocado production, we call on stakeholders to contribute to shaping a well-governed platform that ensures effective mobilization, coordination, and industry growth. By establishing a strong governance structure and fostering collective commitment, this platform will serve as a foundation for sharing knowledge, influencing policies, and positioning Uganda's avocados for global recognition." – Alex Lwakuba, Commissioner, Crop Production, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries.
This meeting underscored the collective commitment of stakeholders to unlock the sector’s potential and transform Uganda’s avocado industry into a model for agricultural diversification and sustainable growth.
About MARKUP II
The European Union (EU)- East African Community (EAC) MARKUP II funded by the EU, aims to enhance economic development in the EAC through sustainable intra-African and EU-Africa trade.
Focused on improving livelihoods, employment, and export competitiveness for MSMEs, the programme supports the development of key export-oriented value chains as well institutional support in the six MARKUP II EAC recipient partner countries.
EU-EAC MARKUP II is promoting exports and investment through addressing trade barriers, value addition, quality compliance, trade facilitation and technology transfer.
EU-EAC MARKUP II is implemented by the International Trade Centre in collaboration with the EAC Secretariat and national partners in the recipient countries.
