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GAYAZA, Wakiso [SHIFTMEDIA] As Uganda joined the rest of the world in marking the International World Food day that falls every October 16, the Center for Food and Adequate Living Rights (CEFROHT) hosted a significant celebration of World Food Day, bringing together a diverse group of food scientists, nutritionists, legislators, government officials, and civil society organizations (CSOs). The event centered on a critical discussion about food safety, nutritional health, and the rising incidence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Uganda.
In line with this year’s theme: “The Right to Food for a Better Life and Future” participants called upon Government to commit in ensuring that all citizens have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food.
As the day unfolded, speakers underscored the urgent need for the implementation of a Nutrient Profiling Model and Front of Pack labeling. These tools are designed to provide consumers with clear information about the nutritional quality of food products, empowering them to make healthier choices. The discussion highlighted the alarming trend of young Ugandans increasingly consuming energy drinks, which have been linked to various health issues, including cancer.
“The issue rising NCDs in Uganda is so worrying. We have over 50 NCDs in Uganda today, including mental health caused by stress, and excessive consumption of drugs. Over 40 million people die due to NCDs globally annually, accounting for over 70% of the deaths,” said Prof Archileo Kaaya, the CEFROHT Board chair and lecturer in the Department of Food Technology at Makerere University.

Dr, Davida Kabanda the Executive Director CEFROHT said: “The assassin is in the house” amidst us. He went further: “This year’s theme is line with adequate food. But the assassin, Sugar, Salt and Fats are within us. Ugandans are dying due to sweetened energy drinks, and beverage labeled as juice whereas not.”
Prof Charles Muyanja, a prominent food scientist, expressed his concerns regarding the rising consumption of highly processed foods and beverages. “We are facing a public health crisis. Many young people are turning to energy drinks, believing they are a quick source of energy, but they often contain high levels of sugar and caffeine, leading to serious health consequences,” he stated. Prof Muyanja called for immediate government intervention to regulate these products and protect the health of Ugandans.
“Take note that no food is safe in Uganda. All food is dangerous, all you have to do is to weigh and measure the risks as you consume it. He said most foods sold in Uganda have hidden unseen dangers such as pesticides in fruits and vegetables, metals in rice, posho, cassava flour, and aflatoxins in posho, groundnuts and simsim.
Similar conversation was echoed by several nutritionists who highlighted the long-term impacts of poor dietary choices. “Nutritional education is crucial. We need to inform our youth about the risks associated with excessive consumption of energy drinks and unhealthy foods,” said Commissioner for Health Services NCDs at the Ministry of Health Dr Oyoo Charles Akiya.
He urged Ugandans to always get time to exercise for at least for 30 mins five times a week. “However as we talk about the Nutrient Profiling Model, we must strike a balance between government interests in protecting investors and earning revenue for the country, visa vie protecting the population,” he advised.
The Assistant Commissioner Food and Nutrition in the Ministry of Agriculture Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) Alex Bambona said the issue of having a policy in Nutrient Profile Model is good, but needs to be addressed while balancing. “Most people involved are leading multinational firms who are huge tax payers. Government needs revenue, so we need to strike a balance carefully, because government can’t allow to lose revenue,” said Alex Bambona
He advocated for school programs focused on nutrition education and massive public awareness, stressing that prevention is key to combatting the rising tide of NCDs, including diabetes and heart disease.
Legislators present at the event also voiced their commitment to supporting policies that promote better nutritional standards. “We need to act swiftly. The health of our population is at stake, and we cannot afford to be complacent,” said Hon. Agnes Taaka Bugiri Woman Member of Parliament. She emphasized the importance of collaboration between government, NGOs, and the private sector to create an environment that promotes healthy eating.
In addition to the discussions on labeling and nutritional education, the issue of food safety was also highlighted. Representatives from various CSOs pointed out that many consumers are unaware of the dangers associated with food contamination and the consumption of unhealthy products. “We need stronger regulations to ensure that food producers adhere to safety standards, and consumers deserve to know what is in the products they are buying,” said Jane Nalunga, the Executive Director SEATINI Uganda .
The Head of Department School of Law School Law at Makerere University Dr. Daniel Ruhweza said the Ugandan constitution mandates the state to ensure that Ugandans consume safe food. Ruhweza said Ugandans have a right to demand for nutritious and safe food.
Dr. Ruhweza agreed that implementing a Nutrient Profiling Model and effective labeling would not only inform consumers but also encourage manufacturers to improve the nutritional quality of their products.
Urgent Call to Address Energy Drink Consumption Among Young Ugandans
As energy drinks gain popularity among young Ugandans, particularly boda boda riders, taxi, bus, and truck drivers, health experts are sounding the alarm about the alarming rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) linked to their consumption. These drinks, often perceived as quick sources of energy, contain high levels of sugar and caffeine, leading to serious health risks, including obesity, diabetes, and heart problems.
Leading scientists and nutritionists advocated for the immediate enforcement of a Nutrient Profiling Model and Front of Pack labeling to combat this growing public health crisis. “These measures are crucial for informing consumers about the potential dangers of energy drinks, clear labeling can empower young people to make healthier choices,” said Prof Muyanja.