Chair Board of Directors

Message from the Chairperson, Board of Directors

Uganda’s Vision 2040, as outlined by the National Planning Authority (NPA), provides a strategic roadmap for transforming the country from a predominantly low-income society to a competitive, upper-middle-income nation within 30 years. This vision aims to foster sustainable economic growth through the adoption of modern technologies, innovative practices, and inclusive development strategies.

At the Tropical Institute of Development Innovations (TRIDI), we are proud to contribute to this national aspiration by influencing individuals, communities, ministries, and government institutions to embrace science, technology, and innovation across various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and industrial development.

Our research and development initiatives are deeply rooted in the belief that scientific innovation can be a catalyst for social and economic transformation. In 2019, we took significant strides in expanding mulberry production to support Uganda’s emerging sericulture industry. This progress was achieved through a combination of internally generated resources and support from our trusted partners. Additionally, we developed a specialized curriculum to enhance the practical application of science, technology, and innovation in sericulture and other agricultural activities.

Beyond sericulture, our efforts extended to key agricultural sectors such as coffee production and processing, livestock and crop breeding through genomics, and the development of cost-effective fertilizers derived from soluble phosphate rocks. These initiatives are designed to improve productivity, ensure food security, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Recognizing the critical role of staple crops like rice, banana, maize, and sorghum in Uganda’s food security and economic landscape, TRIDI embarked on a long-term mission to pilot systems for sustainable intensification. These crops, despite their high potential, have faced productivity challenges due to suboptimal agronomic practices, climate variability, and pest infestations. By introducing innovative farming techniques such as early transplanting, wide spacing, water conservation, and soil aeration, we aim to significantly boost yields and resilience in these staple crops.

The remarkable achievements of the past year are a testament to the dedication, expertise, and hard work of our staff. The Board of Directors has implemented robust management and accountability systems to ensure the efficient use of resources and maintain the trust of our partners. We continue to invest in the professional growth of our team through targeted capacity-building programs, enabling them to stay at the forefront of technological advancements and industry best practices.

On behalf of the Board, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our committed staff, whose relentless efforts have driven our success. As we look ahead, we remain optimistic about the future, confident in our team’s ability to innovate, adapt, and achieve even greater milestones. Together, we will continue to contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s development agenda, leveraging science, technology, and innovation for national prosperity.

Rotzett Namisi Keronega
Chairperson, Board of Directors
Email: tridiuganda@gmail.com