Boni Alvins

The Uganda Oilseed Subsector Platform

The oilseed sub-sector in Uganda has experienced significant growth due to the support provided by various actors. However, further growth in the sector was constrained by poor coordination, knowledge development and sharing of market information among stakeholders, as well as insufficient dialogue and coordination among economic actors of the sub-sector with government. In response to the challenges faced by the sub-sector in 2007 SNV Netherlands Development Organisation in cooperation with Makerere University Research Centre established the Uganda Oilseeds Subsector Platform (OSSUP). Since 2011, regional platforms have been facilitated in Gulu, Lira, Arua and Mbale with support from SNV and IFAD (International Fund for Agricultural Development). As the main coordinating body for the oilseed sub-sector OSSUP's two main objectives are to develop the vegetable oil sector and ensure sustainable inclusion of smallholder producers. OSSUP has a mandate to address systematic issues affecting the development of the oilseed sub-sector in Uganda. OSSUP is a member driven network of private, public and civil organisations, individuals and institutions committed to work together to: 1. Catalyse innovative capacity with the aim of enhancing the competitive position of locally sourced oilseeds and processed edible oils and; 2. Introduce coordination mechanisms that create stable conditions for pro-poor development in the oilseed sub-sector in Uganda. OSSUP works closely with Uganda's Vegetable Oil Development Programme (VODP). Today, OSSUP is recognised by both the private sector and the government as key to driving the oilseed agenda in the country