New NaSARRI Director aims for climate-smart agricultural solutions

UGANDA – The National Semi-Arid Resources Research Institute (NaSARRI) will undergo a significant shift in its research focus with the appointment of Dr. Kalule Okello David as its new director.

The National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) confirmed Dr. Kalule’s tenure, which begins on August 3, 2024. Dr. Kalule is known for his extensive work in plant breeding and his commitment to addressing the challenges faced by farmers in semi-arid regions.

Dr. Kalule has pledged to prioritize the development of climate-smart crop varieties. These varieties are designed to withstand drought conditions and thrive in areas with short and unpredictable rain cycles.

“The goal is to equip farmers with the tools they need to cope with the adverse effects of climate change,” Dr. Kalule stated.

This focus is critical as climate change continues to impact agricultural productivity, particularly in semi-arid regions like those served by NaSARRI.

One of Dr. Kalule’s key initiatives will be improving the communication of agricultural advisories. He plans to ensure that farmers have better access to vital information that can help them optimize their farming practices.

This includes making research findings and practical farming advice more accessible to the public. “We must bridge the gap between research and practice to ensure that the benefits of our work reach the farmers who need them most,” he emphasized.

Dr. Kalule’s appointment is backed by his proven track record in agricultural research and plant breeding. He has played a pivotal role in the release of several groundnut varieties in Uganda, demonstrating his ability to lead successful agricultural projects.

His experience and expertise are expected to drive NaSARRI’s mission of enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability in semi-arid regions.

Looking ahead, Dr. Kalule is committed to fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration at NaSARRI. He aims to work closely with farmers, researchers, and other stakeholders to develop and implement strategies that address the unique challenges of farming in semi-arid areas.

“Collaboration is key to achieving sustainable agricultural development. We need to work together to create solutions that are both effective and adaptable,” Dr. Kalule remarked.

NaSARRI, one of the 16 public agricultural research organizations under NARO, plays a crucial role in Uganda’s fresh produce sector.

Its mandate includes undertaking research in crop production for semi-arid systems, operating in several agro-ecological zones, and developing appropriate agricultural technologies for sustainable development.

NaSARRI’s research covers various crops, including groundnuts, sesame, sunflower, pearl millet, and cotton. Their work has led to increased yields, improved livelihoods, and sustainable agricultural practices.

For example, their groundnut research aims to enhance on-farm pod yields, benefiting resource-poor small-scale farmers.

Collaborations with stakeholders like Equator Seeds Company further support their mission, boosting groundnut seed production in northern Uganda to benefit local farmers.

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