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

2. 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

3. 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.

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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)

7. 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

8. Thanks for Listening