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Swisscontact and the Government of Uganda Develop a Digital System to Improve the International Standing of Fruit and Vegetable Exports 

Uganda
12.11.2024
Swisscontact, in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF), has launched the Re-engineering Uganda’s Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Inspection of Horticulture Exports (RUSH) system. This digital system aims to enhance traceability, ensure compliance, and ultimately improve the international reputation of Uganda's horticulture exports. Supported by the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation, the RUSH system digitizes the inspection process, addressing long-standing challenges in Uganda's horticulture sector.

Addressing Challenges in SPS Inspections

"Dr. Paul Mwambu, Commissioner of MAAIF, emphasized the need for a digital transition in the sector, noting: " The RUSH system addresses longstanding challenges in our horticulture sector, where previously manual, paper-based inspections resulted in inefficiencies, delays, and limited traceability.” He explained that such challenges led to international interceptions, hindering Uganda's competitiveness in global markets."
He explained that such challenges led to international interceptions, hindering Uganda's competitiveness in global markets.
Dr. Paul Mwambu, Commissioner of Crop Inspection and Certification, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF)

Through digital transformation, the RUSH system is expected to streamline SPS inspections, enabling Uganda’s exports to meet international standards. The tool introduces greater transparency, data accuracy, and real-time visibility across the horticulture supply chain, from farms to Entebbe International Airport.

Real-Time Data Collection and System Integration

The RUSH system offers a robust digital platform that allows real-time data collection on key metrics, such as the quantity and value of exported horticultural commodities. The pilot phase, conducted from June to November 2024, engaged 117 export companies, 71 quality controllers, and numerous inspectors and farmers across Uganda. This integration provides a strong foundation for both public and private stakeholders to work together toward sectoral improvements.

"By digitizing and optimizing SPS inspections, RUSH creates a consistent, reliable system that ensures Uganda’s produce reaches global markets in a timely and high-quality manner,"
remarked Arafat Hossain, Country Director for Swisscontact Uganda. 
"This project represents our belief in Uganda’s agricultural potential—not only to meet global standards but to elevate every farmer, exporter, and stakeholder along the value chain."
Md. Arafat Hossain, Country Director & Project Manager, Swisscontact Uganda  

Benefits for Farmers and Exporters

The RUSH system enhances visibility across the horticulture export process, reducing bureaucratic delays and supporting self-regulation within the sector. Exporters can upload essential documents, including farmer information, packaging lists, and sorting details, at every stage of the supply chain. This ease of access and integration encourages compliance, minimizes errors, and builds confidence among international stakeholders.

Fred Zake, Executive Director of the Hortifresh Association, highlighted the importance of this transformation, saying,

"Fresh fruits and vegetables present a major export opportunity for Uganda, contributing not only to economic growth but also to food security and livelihoods."
Zake praised the collaboration among MAAIF, Swisscontact, the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation, and other stakeholders in making this system a reality.
Fred Zake, Managing Director, HortiFresh 

Paving the Way for a Sustainable Future

The RUSH system’s impact on Uganda’s horticulture sector aligns with the country’s larger export diversification goals. With increasing attention on food crops as major export commodities, the implementation of the RUSH system offers a sustainable pathway for Uganda to boost its economic growth through horticulture.

As Uganda advances in digital transformation, the RUSH system serves as a model for trade facilitation and agricultural progress, contributing to the country’s move towards a more sustainable and globally recognized agricultural sector.

Dr. Caroline Nankinga, Assistant Commissioner, Department of Crop Inspection and Certification (DCIC), Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries 
Brian Gitta, CEO of Think IT, the company behind the system's development 
Henry Ndinaiwe, Managing Director of Herald International, a horticultural export company
Junior Nuwandinda of Warfaa Group Holdings Ltd, a company specializing in the supply and export of fresh and dried fruits, vegetables, pulses, grains, and vanilla from Uganda