Improving Government's Approach to Community Transformation through Agriculture-Driven Initiatives: A Case Study of NAADS in Uganda 2001 - 2025

Abstract

Agriculture remains a cornerstone for economic growth and community transformation, particularly in developing countries like Uganda. This study explores how the government can improve its approach to community transformation through agriculture-driven initiatives, using the National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) as a case study. While NAADS was established to empower farmers through advisory services, input provision, and market linkages, its implementation has faced challenges that have hindered its transformative potential—most notably inadequate infrastructure, limited financing, low levels of industrialization, poor market access, and weak regulatory frameworks. The study employed a descriptive research design using both quantitative and qualitative methods by collecting data from key stakeholders including NAADS officials, district technocrats, and tea factory/SME owners in the Greater Bushenyi region. Findings reveal that neither the government nor the private sector can independently address the multifaceted challenges facing agriculture-based SMEs. A strong consensus among respondents supports a public-private partnership model, where government provides enabling infrastructure and regulatory frameworks, while the private sector contributes capital, innovation, and market access. The study also emphasizes the need for improved access to finance, infrastructure development, and policy enforcement to meet international standards. The study concludes that a harmonized, collaborative approach between the government and private sector is essential for enhancing SME performance, particularly value addition SMEs in the tea sector and achieving longterm community transformation in the tea growing regions of Uganda. These enterprises are critical for improving rural livelihoods through processing, packaging, and marketing of agricultural products such as tea. The study recommends strengthening public-private partnerships, improving access to affordable financing, expanding market linkages, and investing in infrastructure and capacity building. These measures will help unlock the full potential of agriculture-driven initiatives like NAADS, support the growth of value addition SMEs, and foster inclusive and sustainable community transformation