Remarks at the Commemoration of the International Year of Millets in Uganda

1. Introduction:

Good afternoon to you all!

It is an honour to join you today at this significant gathering celebrating the International Year of Millets 2023, an initiative aimed at recognizing the profound value and potential of this resilient crop.

2. Background of the International Year of Millets:

The UN General Assembly designated 2023 as the International Year of Millets, placing the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) as the lead agency collaborating with other UN bodies and partners. The theme, "Rich in heritage, full of potential," highlights the historical significance and untapped possibilities of millets.

On behalf of the UN family in Uganda, I would like to express our gratitude to FAO and our esteemed partners for organizing event. This gathering has provided us with a valuable opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the importance of millets.

3. Key Messages and Importance of Millets:
   1. Resilient and Climate-Resilient Crops: Millets are champions in their ability to thrive with minimal inputs under harsh conditions, making them essential for sustainable agriculture, especially in arid regions.
   2. Diverse and Nutrient-Rich: Embracing a wide array of small-grained cereals, millets like pearl, foxtail, sorghum, and others are rich in minerals, antioxidants, proteins, and fiber. Their gluten-free nature, and nutritional benefits make them vital for better nutrition and health.
   3. Vital for Food Security and Indigenous Heritage: In arid regions, millets play a critical role in ensuring food security and nutrition, particularly for vulnerable populations. They're deeply embedded in the cultural heritage and traditions of Indigenous Peoples, offering a bridge between traditional knowledge and modern science.
4. Call-to-Action and Solutions:
   1. Promoting Cultivation and Consumption: Encourage increased cultivation and consumption of millets through awareness campaigns, education, and showcasing their adaptability to local tastes and cuisines.
   2. Supporting Innovation and Economic Growth: Invest in innovation, technological advancements, and entrepreneurship in millet production, processing, and trade to stimulate economic growth and generate jobs, especially for women and youth.
   3. Preserving Indigenous Knowledge and Strengthening Value Chains: Collaborate to preserve indigenous knowledge, while leveraging digital tools and technologies to strengthen millet value chains, improving production, harvesting, storage, and consumption methods.
5. Conclusion:

As we convene here today, let us collectively commit to harnessing the potential of millets, bridging traditional wisdom with modern innovation, and working hand-in-hand towards a future where millets play a pivotal role in ensuring food security, sustainable agriculture, and inclusive growth for all.

Thank you for your dedication and participation in celebrating the International Year of Millets 2023. Together, we can truly make a difference.