Uganda is advancing its agricultural sector through the adoption of a digital traceability system aimed at enhancing the global competitiveness of its fruit and vegetable farmers. The Re-engineering of Uganda's Sanitary and Phytosanitary Inspection of Horticulture Exports (RUSH) initiative is designed to improve the tracking of fresh produce from the point of origin to Entebbe International Airport, thereby ensuring compliance and reducing market access barriers caused by past interceptions.
Dr Caroline Nankinga of the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries highlighted the critical role of the RUSH system in transforming the inspection and certification process. Starting September 30, 2024, agricultural inspectors will rely on this digital platform to verify consignments, thus streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency.
The introduction of RUSH addresses the challenges associated with manual documentation and inspection processes, which often resulted in delays and increased interception risks. By enabling exporters to upload essential documents online, the system facilitates real-time compliance checks and swift corrective actions in case of interceptions.
Key issues leading to interceptions, as identified by Mr Samuel Balagadde of Hortifresh, include pests, chemical residues, and documentation errors affecting a variety of crops. Efforts are underway to mitigate these challenges through collaborative interventions across the value chain.
Furthermore, Ms Maria Bisamaza from the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development emphasized the negative impact of interceptions and outlined the ongoing efforts to establish a Food and Regulatory Authority. This entity will focus on enhancing standards, regulating agrochemicals, and improving food safety and inspections, which are critical for the success of Uganda's food exports.
Source: Monitor