In the wake of global supply disruptions caused by the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Uganda is exploring alternatives to wheat, with a focus on cassava and sweet potatoes. This shift in agricultural strategy comes as a response to the impact of the war, which led to reduced wheat imports and subsequently raised the cost of food items in Uganda, according to a 2022 report from the Economic Policy Research Center (EPRC).
The conflict’s consequences were magnified due to Russia and Ukraine being major suppliers of fuel, wheat, fertilizers, and more to Uganda. In 2020, Uganda imported approximately $50 million worth of wheat from Russia. However, the first quarter of 2022 witnessed a notable absence of wheat imports from Russia. While there was a resurgence of wheat imports worth $1.3 million in June, the Ugandan government, in collaboration with the National Agriculture Research Organizations, initiated research to identify viable alternatives to wheat.
At the forefront of these alternatives are sweet potatoes and cassava. These crops are being showcased at the annual World Food Day celebrations, held at the National Coffee Research Institute (NaCORI) in Mukono district.
Joseph Kitalikyawe, a sweet potato breeder and technician, highlighted the benefits of incorporating sweet potato flour into diets. He explained that sweet potato flour can counteract gluten, a component in wheat that can be problematic for some consumers’ digestive systems. Additionally, sweet potatoes, rich in Vitamin A, can be combined with wheat to address Vitamin A deficiencies, especially in expectant mothers, children under 6 years, and individuals with health conditions.
To create a balanced mixture, bakers are advised to use equal parts of sweet potato flour and wheat to produce items like chapati, bread, cakes, cookies, and even porridge when mixed with maize flour. This shift to sweet potatoes offers a cost-effective solution, potentially lowering the expense of wheat-based products.
Sweet potatoes were chosen as an alternative due to their adaptability to various regions in Uganda. Varieties like Naspot8, which mature within six months and can be harvested as early as four months, are being showcased at the World Food Day event to encourage farmers to make the switch.
In addition to orange sweet potatoes, purple sweet potato flour, known for its anti-cancer properties, is being featured. High-quality cassava flour, suitable for bakery, pharmaceutical, and food applications, is also on display.
The theme for this year’s World Food Day is “Water is Life, Water is Food. Leave No One Behind.” This theme underscores the vital role of water in sustaining life on Earth and its foundational role in food production. The event aims to increase global awareness about the responsible management of water resources, especially in the face of rapid population growth, economic development, urbanization, and the challenges posed by climate change.
The event is organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, World Food Program, Food and Agriculture Organization, and the National Research Organization. It is set to be attended by the Vice President of Uganda, Jessica Alupo.
