Overview on aflatoxin Problem in Uganda Archileo N. Kaaya (PhD) Professor & Head, Food Technology & Nutrition Makerere University

Why is AF a challenge in Uganda? Suitable environment: Temps 15 – 32C; 2 rainy seasons; Rainfall: 750 – 2200 mm/annum Low level of awareness of aflatoxin problem Education level, cultural habits and socio-economic status: overdependence on traditional technologies Large number of produce handlers along value chains Inadequate enforcement of standards by UNBS Expensive aflatoxin testing procedures: Laboratory services not well-developed; few; expensive supplies Overall, Government interventions low

How aflatoxin affects Uganda Rejection of on-farm and processed foodstuffs at international markets Health problems: Linkage with liver cancer, HBV, HIV, Nodding Disease? and child malnutrition Effects on poultry: Low live weight; low levels of egg production, increased mortality rates Costs involved in training/sensitization of stakeholders, development of training materials, lab testing products etc.

Steps taken to address the challenges Research: Establishment of the factors that predispose crops to AF contamination Aflatoxin levels in staples (maize, groundnuts, others) and animal feeds Aflatoxin levels along the value chain and CCPs Linking AF contamination of foodstuffs to cancer, HIV and child malnutrition However, no specific laws and regulations in place to direct AF research

Other steps taken Training/awareness of stakeholders (farmers, traders) but to a limited extent UNBS has set AF regulatory standards for grains (10 ppb); harmonised M.C (EA Standard,13.5%) Development of Quality Management Systems (QMS) manual for AF management in groundnuts (VECO) Screening of maize and groundnut varieties for AF resistance/torelance (NARO) Establishment of PACA Uganda Chapter Plans to initiate AFLASAFE work in Uganda (Makerere, NARO and MAAIF to coordinate) EAC Aflatoxin Inception Workshop Bujumbura 6-7 March 2014

Gaps that need to be addressed Continuation of awareness campaigns Integrated Approach to aflatoxin contamination is best: The need for Quality Management Systems (QMS) involving all value chain actors: farmers, handlers, traders & consumers Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) Good Storage Practices (GSP) Good Hygienic Practices (GHP) Good manufacturing Practices (GMP)

Gaps to address Routine Monitoring and surveillance of susceptible crops Enforcement of standards and regulations Linking farmers to better markets: added advantage Improvement of the laboratory services: More accredited labs Come up with simple AF testing kits which can be used by stakeholders Data on economic impact of aflatoxins

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