Bananas are a staple food in Uganda, and are grown by more than 75% of the country’s farmers. Western Uganda is the leading producer, followed by central, eastern, and northern regions. Bananas are a reliable source of food year-round and are a key part of Uganda’s food security and cash crop system. The local name for East African Highland bananas is matoke, which is also used as a synonym for the word “food” in Uganda. Bananas are used for cooking, and some varieties are also used to make juice and beer. Banana leaves and fibers are used to make souvenirs, such as bags, bowls, and baskets. Banana production, however, has been declining due to soil fertility decline, pests, diseases, and socio-economic problems.