By Our Reporter
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hello Fresh Uganda, an online fresh produce delivery platform is sensitizing women and youth in the agricultural chain of production about food safety.
As one of their CSR initiatives, Hello Fresh identified small holder farmer groups of women and youths in rural areas, across the different regions of Uganda, who are the target for a skill development sensitization campaign on safe food production.
The sensitization, according to David Kiyemba, the Director Hello Fresh Uganda, which is currently being done on their digital platforms (website and social media pages) will better the economic welfare of the women and youth in the villages.
“Many Small holder farmers lack access to knowledge, which affects their production levels, and consequently, their income levels. One of our major focuses is making them understand the benefits of safe food production, and to open their minds to the possibilities of a more organized production frame work. They will be encouraged to harness horticulture to foster sustainability of their agricultural projects, and to embrace safe food handling to widen their market horizons and income generation capacity,” David Kiyemba stated.
According to a report by World Health Organization report, the African Region has the highest burden of foodborne diseases per population and the highest death rate; with more than 91 million people living in the African Region falling ill each year from foodborne diseases, resulting in 137, 000 annual deaths, a third of the global death toll.
“We decided to start with small holder farmers and market vendors because we work directly with them, but pertinently, because they’re the most involved parties in the food production. But other people should join the race. We are looking to partner with organizations, individuals and institutions to further the sensitization,” Kiyemba added.
