Mbarara Commissions 15 Farms with Irrigation Systems to Boost Commercial Agriculture

Launched by the district production department, this initiative aims to address the challenges posed by fluctuating seasons while ensuring that farmers maintain high productivity levels.

Mbarara District has taken a significant step towards enhancing commercial agriculture by commissioning 15 farms that were equipped with new irrigation systems and farming equipment.

Launched by the district production department, this initiative aims to address the challenges posed by fluctuating seasons while ensuring that farmers maintain high productivity levels.

Rev Polly Mwine, founder of KAGRIC Farm School and one of the beneficiaries, expressed his gratitude, stating, "This support will greatly expand our farm's capacity and allow us to train more farmers in sustainable practices."

Occupying over 20 acres, Mwine's farm and farm school play a crucial role in agricultural education within the region, equipping many farmers and schools with the knowledge to improve agricultural production.

Another beneficiary, Allan Tukwatsibwe, who practices diverse agriculture, including goat rearing, sheep farming, turkey keeping, as well as coffee and banana cultivation, highlighted the initiative's impact.

"With this project, I can now diversify my farming even further and reach more markets," he said.

The commissioning ceremony, officiated by the district production team alongside local authorities, including Deputy Resident District Commissioner (DRDC) Abubakar Kazoora, marked the official beginning of the farmers' operations under this new initiative.

Kazoora urged the farmers to extend the benefits of the equipment to their neighbours.

"This initiative is for you to increase production. I encourage you to spread this knowledge and help others grow so we can all prosper together. We need to ensure no one is left behind in this agricultural transformation," he emphasized, highlighting the broader community focus of the district’s efforts.

Senior Agricultural Engineer Osbert Arinaitwe commended the farmers for embracing government programs.

"Commercial farming is the future. It provides better yields, more stable income, and strengthens food security for the whole district," Arinaitwe said.

He also expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda and the World Bank for their efforts to transform agriculture through irrigation.

During the event, LC5 Vice Chairperson Juliet Nabakooza expressed her support for the initiative.

"This commissioning is a step forward in ensuring food security for Mbarara. I commend the farmers for their commitment to improving agriculture, and this support will make a lasting impact," she said.

Mbarara District now looks forward to improved agricultural productivity and a more resilient farming community.