Stakeholders Unite to Advance Global GAP Certifications
Hortifresh, COLEAD, MAAIF, EU, PACEID and other stakeholders at the event
HortiFresh, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF) Uganda, recently hosted a pivotal meeting at their Mengo office, uniting key players in Uganda’s horticulture industry to discuss advancing Global GAP certifications. This gathering, facilitated by COLEAD, focused on elevating Ugandan horticultural standards to improve market access and competitiveness.
COLEAD, recognizing the strategic importance of Global GAP certifications in accessing international markets, has committed to supporting Uganda’s horticultural sector in establishing a National Technical Working Group. This initiative aims to significantly increase the number of Global GAP-certified companies in Uganda, allowing exporters to meet international safety and quality standards, which opens doors to premium and profitable markets.
At present, only five Ugandan companies hold Global GAP certifications, a number that limits the country’s capacity to maximize its horticultural export potential. Through coordinated efforts and the establishment of this Working Group, stakeholders hope to equip more companies with the knowledge and support needed to achieve certification. With increased certification, Uganda’s horticultural sector stands to enhance its reputation and expand its reach to high-value markets, especially in regions like Europe and North America where Global GAP certification is increasingly viewed as a quality benchmark.
The meeting marks an important step towards a more robust, certified, and internationally competitive Ugandan horticultural sector. HortiFresh and COLEAD’s partnership, alongside MAAIF and other industry stakeholders, reflects a shared commitment to elevating Uganda’s presence in the global horticultural market and creating sustainable growth opportunities for Ugandan exporters.
With plans now in motion, all eyes are on the establishment of the National Technical Working Group and the journey to achieving higher certification rates for Ugandan horticulture.
Kevin Kusiima
