Food is a crucial part of any society. Uganda is no exception. Culturally, food is one of the most important things one can offer to guests. During my time in Uganda I was offered tremendous amounts of food. I was given papaya, jackfruit and sugar cane just for visiting someone. I was fed at every opportunity; feasts were prepared in my honor. If I ever slowed when eating, or indicated that I was too full for seconds--I was told I was not yet the size of a "nalongo," a mother of twins, and I should keep eating. Many Ugandans are farmers as well, strengthening ties to the land and to food and agriculture. In 2010, 65.6% of individuals were employed in the agricultural sector.
Despite a high percentage of agriculturists, food scarcity is a serious problem in Uganda. A wide array of organizations from the Ugandan government to local and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have tried to solve the issue of food security. Yet, no solution has been reached. During the summer of 2013, I interned at St. Jude Family Projects, a demonstration farm and training center for farmers in a southern region of Uganda. This website aims to contextualize my personal experience as an intern and elucidate the best ways that governments, NGOs and individuals can work toward food security.
Despite a high percentage of agriculturists, food scarcity is a serious problem in Uganda. A wide array of organizations from the Ugandan government to local and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have tried to solve the issue of food security. Yet, no solution has been reached. During the summer of 2013, I interned at St. Jude Family Projects, a demonstration farm and training center for farmers in a southern region of Uganda. This website aims to contextualize my personal experience as an intern and elucidate the best ways that governments, NGOs and individuals can work toward food security.