Blog The Alliance hands over the Tissue Culture Laboratory to NARO
On 28th February 2025, the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT officially handed over a state-of-the-art tissue culture laboratory to National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO) at the National Agricultural Research Laboratories (NARL) in Kawanda, Uganda.
This momentous event signifies a transformative step in Uganda’s agricultural biotechnology landscape. The newly inaugurated tissue culture laboratory will serve as a cornerstone in advancing banana production research across Eastern Africa. The facility, funded by the Government of Uganda, is poised to fast-track the development of disease-resistant and climate-resilient banana varieties, addressing the most pressing challenges facing banana farmers in the region, such as pests, diseases, and extreme weather conditions.
The ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Dr. Wanjiru Kamau-Rutenberg, the Managing Director of the Alliance in Africa, who presided over the handover, and the Director General of NARO, who officially received the facility on behalf of NARO. This partnership is part of the broader project on "Biotechnological Methodologies for the Improvement of Banana Production in Eastern Africa", a pioneering initiative aimed at enhancing banana productivity, strengthening food security, and boosting Uganda’s agricultural economy.
About the Project
The “Biotechnological Methodologies for the Improvement of Banana Production in Eastern Africa” project is supported with fund from the government of Uganda through NARO. The project is designed to combat the persistent challenges that plague banana farming in the region. With a specific focus on improving banana varieties to withstand pests, diseases, and the impacts of climate change, the project has been groundbreaking in its approach.
Key achievements of the project include:
- Development of Genetically Improved Banana Varieties: These new varieties are engineered for resistance against diseases like Fusarium wilt and pests such as banana weevils, improving both yield and resilience.
- Advancing Genome-Editing Techniques: Through CRISPR/Cas9, researchers have enhanced the adaptability of banana crops, allowing them to thrive in a changing climate.
- Establishing Research Infrastructure: The laboratory now in NARO’s hands will play a pivotal role in sustaining the production of disease-free, high-quality planting materials that will be distributed to farmers across Uganda and the East Africa region.
- Capacity Building and Training: The project has already empowered multiple Master's and PhD candidates, equipping them with the skills to drive future innovations in agricultural biotechnology.
- Strengthening Partnerships: Close collaboration between research institutions, policymakers, and farming communities ensures that research findings are translated into tangible solutions that benefit farmers directly.
Event Highlights
The handover ceremony was an occasion filled with symbolism, marking both the achievement and the beginning of a new chapter in agricultural research. Key moments of the event included:
The Official Handover of Keys and Documents: This formal gesture symbolized the official transfer of the laboratory to NARO’s stewardship. The ceremony was attended by stakeholders from across the agricultural research and policy sectors, underscoring the significance of the collaboration between NARO and Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT.
A Guided Tour of the Laboratory: Attendees had the opportunity to witness the advanced laboratory facilities first-hand, which are equipped with cutting-edge biotechnology tools designed to push the boundaries of banana research.
Tree-Planting Ceremony: A tree-planting activity was organized to symbolize sustainability, growth, and the shared commitment of the Alliance, NARO, and the Government of Uganda to continue nurturing agricultural innovation.
Inspiring Quotes from Key Stakeholders
The speeches at the ceremony were filled with hope and vision for the future. Here are some key remarks from the event:
Dr. William Tinzaara, Project Leader:
“The successful handover of the Tissue Culture Laboratory is a monumental step forward for agricultural biotechnology in Uganda. This facility will empower us to produce over 5 million high-quality, disease-free banana plantlets and of other horticultural crops every year, benefiting farmers across Uganda and beyond. It’s not just about banana production; it’s about sustainable agriculture, food security, and the future of farming in Eastern Africa.”
Dr. Enid Katungi, Country Representative for Uganda, Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT:
“Today’s ceremony reflects decades of dedication to agricultural research. For over thirty years, the Alliance and NARO have worked hand-in-hand, innovating and driving progress. This laboratory is a testament to the strength of that partnership and the potential it holds for transforming Uganda’s agricultural sector.”
Dr. Wanjiru Kamau-Rutenberg, Managing Director, Africa, Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT:
“The handover of this laboratory is more than a ceremonial event—it’s the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and collaboration. With this facility, Uganda is not just strengthening its agricultural research but also laying the foundation for a future of sustainable farming practices in East Africa. This is a pivotal moment for the entire region.”
The Steering Committee Chair and Director of NARL:
“This state-of-the-art laboratory is a vital asset in our mission to advance agricultural research. The Alliance’s continued trust and partnership are invaluable, and I am excited to see how the laboratory will serve as a catalyst for further agricultural innovation.”
The Director General of NARO:
“On behalf of NARO, I want to express our sincere gratitude to the Alliance for handing over the laboratory to us. This laboratory represents the realization of a vision we have shared for many years. Together, we will continue to build on this success, driving agricultural development and food security for Uganda and the East African region.”
Looking Ahead
The successful handover of the tissue culture laboratory is just the beginning. With this new facility, Uganda is poised to lead the way in agricultural biotechnology, particularly in the banana subsector. The laboratory will play an essential role in ensuring the availability of high-quality, climate-resilient banana and other horticultural seedlings, providing smallholder farmers with the tools they need to boost productivity and strengthen food security.
The Alliance, NARO, and the Government of Uganda remain committed to advancing biotechnology solutions to address the evolving challenges of agricultural production, particularly in the face of climate change. This collaboration not only strengthens Uganda’s agricultural research capabilities but also ensures that farmers will have access to the most advanced agricultural technologies available.
The Team
Wanjiru Kamau-Rutenberg
Managing Director, Africa, and Trustee, Bioversity International UK/USA
Enid Mbabazi Katungi
Scientist II, Country Representative for Uganda
