President Yoweri Museveni has called on Ugandans to embrace matooke farming and invest in value addition, describing the crop as a powerful tool for improving nutrition, strengthening food security, and increasing household incomes across the country. He emphasized that matooke remains one of Uganda’s most valuable agricultural resources and should be fully utilized for both consumption and commercial gain.The President’s message was delivered by Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa during the Tooke Run held in Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality on Saturday.
The event, organized by the Presidential Initiative on Banana Industrial Development (PIBID) in partnership with the Uganda Olympic Committee, attracted hundreds of participants and highlighted the importance of healthy living and proper nutrition.Held under the theme “Move, Learn and Discover with Nutrition Care,” the marathon sought to promote matooke not only as a staple food enjoyed by millions of Ugandans but also as an economic commodity capable of transforming livelihoods through value addition and industrial processing.In his remarks, Museveni said matooke occupies a special place in Uganda’s cultural heritage and identity, noting that it is recognized and appreciated across the country regardless of tribe or region.
He said the event symbolized the connection between health, culture, and agriculture while encouraging citizens to take pride in Uganda’s rich food traditions.The President further noted that matooke provides essential energy and nutritional benefits that contribute to healthier lifestyles. He urged Ugandans to adopt better eating habits and support efforts aimed at expanding local food production, saying such initiatives are critical in building a stronger and more prosperous nation.Museveni also applauded PIBID Director Prof. Florence Muranga for her outstanding efforts in promoting banana value addition in the Ankole Sub-region.
He praised the collaboration between PIBID and the Uganda Olympic Committee, saying the partnership advances government efforts to popularize matooke as both a nutritious food and a source of wealth creation.Prof. Muranga expressed gratitude to the President and the Government of Uganda for supporting scientific innovation and research aimed at improving livelihoods. She said government backing has enabled locally developed matooke products to gain recognition in both domestic and international markets, creating new opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs.
Despite the progress made, challenges remain for banana growers, many of whom continue to struggle with low market prices. During periods of bumper harvests and prolonged dry seasons, some farmers are forced to sell a bunch of matooke for as little as Shs3,000. As government and scientists continue promoting value addition through products such as Tooke flour, biscuits, bread, and cakes, stakeholders hope processing and commercialization will help farmers earn more from one of Uganda’s most important crops.
