Anthony Emaru: Planting the Seeds for a Sustainable Tomorrow

Sustainable agriculture practices have taken center stage as the world grapples with the dual challenges of environmental decline and climate change, threatening agricultural productivity and, by extension, food security. In this context, farmers are increasingly recognized as land stewards who navigate the complexities of the land to ensure food on our tables.

Uganda, an African Union (AU) Member, is making notable progress in agricultural development. It has emerged as one of the 20 top countries delivering on the goals set forth in the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), part of the AU Agenda 2063. This continental initiative aims to raise agricultural productivity, increase public investment in agriculture, and stimulate economic growth through agriculture-led development to build resilient agri-food systems in Africa.

The journey towards resilient agri-food systems goes beyond mere policies and frameworks; it is also about the people who are driving this change. Farmers are at the heart of this transformation! By adopting climate-smart agricultural techniques and engaging in community-based sustainability initiatives, they are reshaping the narrative around resilient agri-food systems.

One remarkable farmer embodying this transformation is Anthony Emaru, a horticulture expert who was awarded a scholarship by the TAGDev 1.0 programme in 2020. He earned his Master’s Degree in Horticulture from Egerton University in Kenya after successfully completing his Bachelor’s Degree in Horticulture from Makerere University in Uganda.

In 2002, Anthony’s life took an unexpected turn when his grandfather – who was the family breadwinner, lost his job, forcing him to pause his education until 2004. With limited options, his grandfather transformed the family backyard into an oasis of fruits and vegetables. What started as a necessity quickly become a lifeline to sustain the family and a newfound passion for Anthony. The family garden soon became his classroom and cultivated a deep-rooted love for horticulture that would shape his future.

While studying at Egerton University, Anthony co-founded 4Pillar Networks, a dynamic platform operating across East and Central Africa. The platform serves as a network for smallholder farmers to connect to agricultural training and market access. He has successfully engaged more than 3500 smallholder farmers across the two regions.

In addition to his work with 4Pillar Networks, Anthony serves as the Farm Manager at Unplugged Vision Farm in Luwero, Uganda. He oversees 83 acres of avocado trees employing 21 young people aged between 21 to 38. The farm also cultivates a rich variety of vegetables such as tomatoes, eggplants, green peppers, coriander, kale, and watermelons. This diverse crop selection is not just about providing fresh produce; it’s part of a broader mission to enhance nutrition and food diversity.

Additionally, Anthony extends his support to nearby farmers, assisting 15 of them with seeds, extension services, and access to quality agro-inputs, which has significantly improved their productivity and income. Furthermore, he signed a Memorandum of understanding (MOU) with a private medical company to provide quality healthcare services to his workers, offering a generous 50% medical bill support, thereby ensuring their well-being and fostering a supportive community environment.

Anthony’s journey is a testament of how resilience, courage, leadership, long-term focus and flexibility can drive positive change. It further underscores the importance and value of investing in young leaders for a sustainable tomorrow.