Call for Expression of Interest (EOI)

The National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) is an agency under the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) with the mandate to coordinate and oversee all aspects of public-funded agricultural research in Uganda. Its Established as a body corporate by the National Agricultural Research Act of 2005, NARO comprises a Governing Council, a Secretariat and 16 Public Agricultural Research Institutes (PARIs) spread across the country.

The National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO) developed state-of-the-art fish feed production facilities located on NARO premises in Kajjansi, Wakiso District. The facility has two lines (a) a floating fish feed line with a potential to produce 2 tons per hour and (b) a sinking fish feed line a potential to produce up to 2.5 tons per hour. The facility is strategically located and equipped with advanced feed processing machinery designed to produce high-quality fish feed. The facilities have been developed with scalability in mind and are capable of catering to both local and regional market demands.

The National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO) now invites expressions of interest (EOI) from eligible private sector players to partner in the operationalization of the facilities. This partnership aims to enhance the production, distribution, and accessibility of high-quality feed products to support Uganda’s livestock and aquaculture sectors. NARO is offering the facility under an operational lease for up to 7 years, with the possibility of renewal based on the partner’s performance. The most suitable partner is expected to demonstrate financial capacity to make an initial investment of approximately US$95,000 to enhance the facility’s operational efficiency, optimize production, and ensure its continued high standards of maintenance. Shortlisted partners will be given the opportunity to visit the facility to assess its operational setup and explore potential areas for optimization and investment and later invited to submit detailed business plan and strategy for the commercialization of the facility.

Partnership Objectives

NARO is seeking innovative and committed private sector partners to:

1. Commercialize the feed production facility through sustainable and efficient operations.
2. Leverage the facilities to produce high-quality, affordable fish and animal feeds for the Ugandan and regional markets.
3. Promote research, development, and innovation in feed formulation using locally available raw materials.
4. Create employment opportunities and contribute to the socio-economic transformation of Uganda’s agricultural sector.

Conditions for Commercialization

To ensure the successful commercialization of the facility, selected partners will be required to meet specific conditions designed to foster a productive partnership, optimize resource utilization, and enhance the overall impact of the facility. Bidders should be willing to:

1. Operate under a clear Memorandum of Understanding and operation lease agreement.
2. Integrate modern technologies and innovative practices to enhance production efficiency and market competitiveness.
3. Engage in capacity-building programs to upskill local personnel and collaborate with NARO on research and training.
4. Adhere to environmental sustainability practices, including waste management and energy efficiency.
5. Expand feed access and distribution channels within and beyond Uganda.
6. Provide regular reports on operations, financial performance, and compliance with agreed terms.

Submission Requirements

Interested partners should submit their expression of interest, including:

1. A detailed company profile.
2. Copies of company registration documents
3. Evidence of meeting all tax obligations
4. Evidence of previous experience in feed production or related sectors.
5. A letter of intent demonstrating commitment to the partnership. 
6. Relevant legal and regulatory compliance documents.

Disqualification caution

Partners may be disqualified from the process if among others they are:

• Non-compliant with the application guidelines
• Found guilty of misrepresentation of information
• Involved in lobbying and influence peddling.
• Involved in acts of fraud and corruption.
• Non-compliant with environment and social practices.

Further information can be obtained by inquiry to the email commercialisation@naro.go.ug to during office hours (0800 to 1700 hrs).

Submission Deadline

The expression of interest should be submitted not later than 5.00 pm on Tuesday 22nd April 2025 and should be addressed to:
Director General
National Agricultural Research Organization
P.O Box 295 Entebbe
Plot 11-13 Lugard Avenue, Entebbe
Email: dg@naro.go.ug