Agric Ministry tips Ugandans on 'protective nutrition' against COVID-19

Ugandans have been urged to be more nutrition-sensitive in the face of COVID-19 pandemic as a measure to maintain high body immunity against coronavirus.

The ministry of Agriculture Animal Industry and Fisheries has also noted that in spite of the CODIV-19 pandemic, agricultural activities need to continue, owing to their integral role in keeping the population healthy.

While addressing the press this morning, Agriculture minister Vincent Sempijja urged the farming community and the general public to prioritize intake of “protective foods” in the light of COVID-19 pandemic, but with strict adherence to the directives and MOH guidelines.

In order to boost people’s immunity to fight against diseases, COVID-19 Inclusive, farmers are encouraged to grow a variety of food crops to diversify their diets.

Farmers and the general public are encouraged to grow and consume Horticultural fruit crops such as; Citrus (Oranges, Lemons, Lime, Tangerine, Grapes); Mangoes; Pineapples; Passion fruits; Water Melon and Guavas, that are rich in Vitamins and Minerals (Phyto nutrients) and which play a big role in boosting body immunity.

Similarly, Vegetable crops including; Carrots, Tomatoes, Onions, Cabbages, Green Pepper, leafy vegetables (Amaranthus/Ddodo, Buga, Nakati, African Night Shade/Ensuugga/ Enswiga, Ggobe, Jobbiyo/Akeyo, Malakwang, Bboo/Eboo) should be eaten in combination because they are also rich in Vitamins and Minerals.

Farmers and the general public are further encouraged to grow and consume Bio-fortified nutrient dense crops such as the Vitamin A Rich Orange Flesh Sweet Potatoes (NASPOT 8, NASPOT 12, NASPOT 13; Iron/Zinc Rich Beans (NARO Bean 1, NARO Bean 2, NARO Bean 3, NARO Bean 4C and NARO Bean 5C).

MAAIF also urged farmers to store food in dry and clean places preferably containers to avoid contamination. MAAIF says this will stop growth of Afro-toxins which are also very dangerous.