Reviving Hope in Teso Sub Region - The Nutrition Gaps

Small-scale farmers from Kobwakol Farmer Field School in Serere district are being guided on agronomic practices for cowpea cultivation

Despite the Ugandan government’s efforts to improve nutrition through policies like the Uganda Nutrition ActionPlan (UNAP), Health Sector Development Plan (2015/16–2019/20), and the Food and Nutrition Policy (2003), many regions remain below key nutrition targets.

Malnutrition continues to undermine human capital, economic productivity, and national development. According to the World Food Programme (WFP), Uganda loses approximately US $899 million annually due to malnutrition—equivalent to 5% of the country’s GDP. Beyond economic costs, malnutrition affects brain development, school performance, and overall productivity, impacting both children and adults.

Nestled in eastern Uganda, Teso sub-region—once celebrated as a national food basket—is now grappling with food insecurity, rising child malnutrition, and the erosion of traditional food systems. Families that once relied on granaries (edula) for year-round food and seed security now face shortages, as local food varieties are harder to store. The region’s diets have become heavily carbohydrate-based, lacking diversity and essential nutrients. Malnutrition-related weaknesses affect children and adults alike, leaving communities vulnerable to disease, low productivity, and poor livelihoods.

To address this silent crisis, ESAFF Uganda is implementing a dual approach combining Farmer Field Schools (FFS) and Community Seed Banks (CSBs) in Serere and Amuria districts in the region. These initiatives aim to restore local food plants and promote sustainable nutrition and seed security among small-scale farmers. The Orungo and Kyere Community Seed Banks reach over 900 farmers, empowering them to value their biodiversity and incorporate indigenous crops such as Spider Plant, Hibiscus, Turmeric, cowpea leaves, and local cucumbers into their diets. By focusing on Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS), these centers act as vital hubs for climate-resilient agriculture, in-situ conservation, and knowledge preservation.

“For a long time, I was weakening day by day with constant stomach aches. After joining the Farmer Field School and consuming well-prepared local greens like hibiscus, spider plant and cowpea leaves, I started noticing real improvements within three months. We now prepare food in ways that preserve nutrients and reduce unhealthy oils and preservatives.”– Enyou Ezekiel, Olupe Moru FFS member.

The 10 Farmer Field Schools established by ESAFF Uganda in Serere cultivate crops like cherry tomatoes, Spider Plant, Hibiscus, Turmeric, and local cucumbers. Farmers initially hesitant are now embracing these practices, using them to improve household nutrition and generate income through small-scale sales. Many members are replicating these gardens at home, with aspirations for collective marketing and expanded production.

By re-establishing community-controlled seed reserves, ESAFF ensures farmers retain access to climate-resilient seeds, lowering costs and safeguarding against shocks. Local Food Plants bridge the gap between harvest and household nutrition. Processing crops such as millet, sweet potatoes, and groundnuts into shelf-stable, nutritious products expands food access, generates income, and reduces reliance on imported commodities.

These initiatives also revive cultural practices, restoring indigenous seeds, culinary traditions, and local knowledge. By valuing heritage crops, ESAFF strengthens food sovereignty, community identity, and resilience, while combating genetic erosion and enhancing climate adaptation.

Teso’s traditional granaries and wild foods have diminished over the years, eroding dietary diversity. ESAFF’s CSBs and FFS interventions aim to reverse these trends by providing hands-on training, technical support, and knowledge transfer. Farmers learn cultivation techniques, nutrient-preserving preparation methods, and sustainable storage solutions.

“Previously, I didn’t pay attention to the nutrition content of my meals. Now, with guidance from our FFS, I incorporate local greens and process foods in ways that maximize nutrients. I feel healthier and stronger than ever.”– Enyou Ezekiel.

ESAFF Uganda’s dual strategy of restoring Farmer Managed Seed Systems and adding food processing and value addition creates a holistic model that aligns nutrition, livelihoods, and climate resilience. Local communities gain not just food security but also economic opportunities and empowerment. By combining these interventions, ESAFF addresses both immediate nutritional needs and long-term sustainability, ensuring communities are better equipped to face climate shocks and market fluctuations.

The integration of bio-fortified, nutrient-dense crops improves diets, reduces malnutrition, and strengthens household food security. CSA initiatives like Orungo and Kyere also promote collective action, allowing farmers to share seeds, knowledge, and best practices within their communities. Farmers report improved physical health, increased income, stronger community cohesion, and a renewed sense of pride in preserving their agricultural heritage.

The malnutrition crisis in Teso is deeply rooted in historical, economic, and cultural factors. ESAFF Uganda’s FFS and CSB initiatives offer a scalable, evidence-based model for improving nutrition, enhancing livelihoods, and strengthening food sovereignty. Development partners, local governments, and civil society organizations are urged to support community-driven food systems like FFS to strengthen local food security, protect indigenous seeds and biodiversity, promote income-generating opportunities, and reduce national economic losses from malnutrition.

With continued investment and collaboration, Teso’s communities in Serere and Amuria can revive traditional food systems, empower farmers, and reclaim their status as a thriving food basket for Uganda. By prioritizing local, nutrient-dense crops, restoring knowledge, and investing in farmer-led initiatives, ESAFF is lighting a path toward healthier, more resilient communities.

“These initiatives are not just about growing food. They are about restoring hope, empowering communities, and reviving a legacy of self-reliance that was lost over time.”