Farmers in Kazo District have reason to celebrate following the commissioning of a new weather station aimed at addressing the longstanding challenges of unpredictable weather patterns and prolonged dry spells.
For years, farmers in the district have struggled with unreliable rainy seasons, making it difficult to plan their agricultural activities.
"We used to rely on March and August for planting, but lately, these seasons have become highly unpredictable due to the persistent dry spells," said one farmer who spoke to Nile Post.
The new weather station, constructed by the Ministry of Water and Environment with funding from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, is part of a $1.395 million initiative running from 2024 to 2027.
Besides supporting weather monitoring in Kazo, the funding also includes hydrological monitoring in Kitagwenda District along River Mpanga and re-afforestation efforts in the Mpanga catchment area.
Speaking at the commissioning event on Friday, Frank Kigozi, Senior Hydrological Inspector at the Ministry of Water and Environment, emphasized the importance of the station.
"This decision was made after repeated concerns from local leaders and farmers about the lack of reliable weather data. The station will now record critical weather parameters such as solar radiation, precipitation, wind speed, and humidity, which are crucial for farmers to adapt to changing climate conditions," Kigozi stated.
Kazo District Chairperson, Rev. Samuel Mugisha Katugunda, welcomed the development, calling it a timely intervention for the community.
"This station is an answer to the concerns our people have raised for years. With accurate weather predictions, farmers will now be able to make informed decisions on when to plant and harvest," he said.
The Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Captain Yahaya Kakooza, urged the public to safeguard the station, warning against vandalism.
"This facility is for the benefit of all residents. I strongly appeal to everyone to protect it and ensure it serves the intended purpose," Kakooza stated.
With the weather station now operational, farmers in Kazo can look forward to more predictable and informed farming seasons, potentially boosting agricultural productivity and resilience in the face of climate change.