ACODE Calls for Agro-Industrialisation, Solar Investment in 2027/28 Budget

What the report says

The Advocates Coalition for Development and Environment (ACODE) has urged the Ugandan government to put more emphasis on agro-industrialisation, solar-powered irrigation and climate resilience in the 2027/28 national budget. In comments reported by Nile Post, the policy group said these priorities would help shield farmers from drought and other weather-related shocks, especially in drier areas such as Karamoja and parts of Masaka.

ACODE said it has already submitted its proposals to the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development. The organisation wants clearer guidance on financing agricultural transformation and climate adaptation, along with stronger monitoring of climate-related public spending so that officials can see whether the money set aside for adaptation is producing results. Its deputy executive director, Onesmus Mugyenyi, said farmers need better access to reliable water and other support measures to cope with changing weather patterns.

The appeal comes as government prepares the Shs79.22 trillion budget for FY2027/28, which is smaller than the current year’s budget, meaning agencies will face tighter spending limits. Nile Post reported that the budget strategy already lists agro-industrialisation, tourism, mineral-based industrial development, and science and innovation as key priorities, while irrigation remains an important investment area. ACODE is pushing for solar energy to be used more widely in irrigation, processing and storage, and for local governments to have more capacity to design climate responses suited to their regions.

The organization’s call also aligns with wider efforts to expand climate-resilient agriculture in Uganda. As general background, irrigation and post-harvest infrastructure are often seen as ways to reduce losses and improve food security, though ACODE’s recommendations specifically focus on making those investments more deliberate in the upcoming budget.