The new EU Organic Regulation Uganda guidelines promise to protect Uganda’s shrinking tree cover, heavily impacted by farming and human activities, according to EU Ambassador Jan Sadek.
In a recent interview, Sadek emphasized that the regulation would help stop deforestation linked to Uganda’s exports, especially coffee, and reduce climate change risks. “This will ensure that products from Uganda don’t contribute to deforestation, particularly in coffee-growing regions. European consumers want assurance that their coffee hasn’t damaged forests or fueled climate change,” he said.
The regulation requires many small-scale farmers to use GPS to map their farms. Authorities will compare these coordinates with satellite deforestation maps to confirm that products come from forest-safe areas.
Despite concerns about the regulation’s strictness, Sadek remains optimistic about Northern Uganda’s opportunities. “We see huge potential for Northern Uganda to expand its agricultural exports. The EU offers zero tariffs, allowing Ugandan produce free access to European markets,” he explained.
The EU Organic Regulation (2018/848) introduces strict standards for crop and livestock production. For crops, farmers must use rootstock from organically grown mother plants for at least two seasons to earn organic certification. They must also rotate crops and include legumes or green manure to enrich soil health.
For livestock, only farms with fewer than 50 adult cattle may use tethering. Farmers cannot fatten cattle exclusively indoors. In poultry farming, live plucking is banned, and debeaking is restricted to the bird’s first three days. Pig farmers must provide outdoor access and proper shelter to avoid tooth trimming.
Sadek encouraged Ugandan farmers to view the regulation as an opportunity rather than a burden. “This regulation isn’t punitive. Uganda’s exports to the EU rose by 60 percent last year to €1.25 billion. If we adopt these new measures, exports could grow to €2 billion,” he noted.
By aligning with the EU Organic Regulation, Uganda can strengthen its export position and promote environmental sustainability.
