ToroDev emphasizes accountability at CAADP meeting

ToroDev has appealed to the African Union (AU) to put more emphasis in advocating for improved transparency and accountability policies in the agricultural sector of its partner countries at the recently concluded 10^th Comprehensive African Agricultural Development Programme (CAADP) meeting in Durban, South Africa on 19^th – 21^st March, 2014. ToroDev was represented by the Media and Communications Officer, Solomon Akugizibwe.

“We need you (AU) to push our African governments institute better policies which will reduce corruption like improved access to government information, more accountability by leaders and improved participation of local citizens in government planning, budgeting and monitoring agricultural service delivery.” Said Solomon Akugizibwe.

Solomon Akugizibwe speaking at the CAADP meeting

Solomon also advocated for financial literacy empowerment among African farmers to ensure improved decision making in savings, investments, recording keeping and credit access to ensure progress in agricultural sector modernization and hence improved livelihoods.

In Uganda, agricultural sector employs over 80 percent of the population and contributes a big chunk to Uganda’s economy but receives less than 5 percent of the government budget allocation which is far below the Maputo Declaration of 10 percent. The agricultural sector especially NAADS has also been marred by corruption and misuse of public funds. In 2013, according to Transparency International, Uganda was listed among the 17 most corrupt countries in the world.

The resolutions of the 10^th CAADP meeting will be presented to the agriculture ministerial meeting in May 2014 and finally to the African presidents and heads of government meeting in June 2014 where they will be adopted and incorporated in the policies of their governments.    

The CAADP Partnership Platform Meeting is an annual continental forum that brings together CAADP stakeholders from across the continent to dialogue on progress of implementation and build consensus on specific actions to be undertaken to advance Africa’s agriculture.

The 10th CAADP PP, was organised under the theme “Transforming Africa’s Agriculture: Harnessing Opportunities for Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development”.