The 3rd Edition of the Annual Agriculture Awards 2025 concluded over the weekend at the Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala, spotlighting excellence and innovation vital for Uganda’s agricultural sector.
Held under the theme “Celebrating Excellence and Innovation in Agriculture,” the event recognised key players, with the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) and Pride Bank emerging prominent winners, underscoring their invaluable contributions to the nation’s food security and agro-industrialisation agenda.
Organised by Farmwise Communications and sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF), the awards drew an impressive 286 competitors across 18 diverse categories.
The robust engagement was evident with over 13.5 million public votes cast, reflecting widespread interest in agricultural development.
Officiating the ceremony on behalf of the Third Deputy Premier, Hon. Rukia Nakadama, Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, the Minister for Kampala, emphasised the vital role of agriculture.
“This event celebrates excellence and innovation in agriculture, a key pillar for Uganda’s economy and food security,” she stated, adding, “It was inspiring to witness efforts being recognised across all sectors.”
NEC Agro: Cultivating National Food Security
A major highlight of the evening was NEC Agro, a subsidiary of the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC), which was crowned the Best National Agricultural Enterprise of 2025.
Eng. Simon Terwane, General Manager of NEC Agro, received the accolade on behalf of Lt. Gen. James Mugira, NEC’s Managing Director, expressing gratitude to the organisers and voters.
Quoting Napoleon Bonaparte, Eng. Terwane articulated NEC Agro’s core philosophy: “An army marches on its stomach,” emphasising the critical link between food security and national strength.
He proudly declared the company’s mantra: “We grow it, we process it, and we serve it,” showcasing their integrated approach to agricultural production.
He noted that NEC Agro’s commitment to national food and to food security is evident in its cultivation of over 5,149 acres of land, primarily dedicated to maize production.
Terwane further observed that the award is a testament to the tireless efforts of the UPDF leadership and the dedicated men and women who ensure soldiers remain healthy and combat-ready.
Pride Bank: Powering Agricultural Finance
In a significant acknowledgement of its role in bridging the financial gap in agriculture, Pride Bank was honoured with the Agri-Finance (Credit Finance) Award.
The bank further demonstrated its commitment by securing the position of First Runner-Up in both the Agricultural Credit Facility (ACF) Award and the Small Business Recovery Fund (SBRF) Award categories, highlighting its crucial support for farmers and agribusinesses across Uganda.
Outstanding Laureates Driving Innovation and Policy
Beyond the major accolades for NEC Agro and Pride Bank, the awards celebrated a diverse array of individuals and institutions making profound impacts:
Center for Food and Adequate Living Rights (CEFROHT): Won the highly contested Food Systems category, with Dr. David Kabanda, its Executive Director, accepting the award.
Advocacy Coalition for Sustainable Agriculture (ACSA): Recognised for its pivotal role in shaping the sector, scooping the prestigious Agriculture Policy Award 2025.
Sandra Nabasirye: A testament to youthful innovation, she received the National Agro Tourism Award.
Omia Agribusiness: Honoured with the National Agri-Business Award 2025, for its dedication to promoting agri-tech and smart agriculture solutions.
PELUM Uganda: Scooped the National Farmer Organisation Award 2025, recognising its vital role in supporting farming communities. Dr. Christopher Kyeswa, Country Board Chairperson, received the award.
Kilimo Trust: Acknowledged for its commitment to advancing innovative solutions in Africa’s agricultural sector, with CEO Dr. Birungi Korutaro accepting the award.
Bukoola Chemicals: Named the Best Visionary Agricultural Inputs Company of the Year, affirming its leadership in providing essential agricultural inputs.
NTV Uganda: Recognised as the National Agriculture Media House of the Year, highlighting its role in informing and educating the public on agricultural matters.
The 3rd Annual Agriculture Awards underscored the collective efforts driving Uganda’s agricultural transformation.
By celebrating these key players, the event not only recognised past achievements but also inspired continued innovation and collaboration towards a more food-secure and prosperous future for the nation.