The government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, has distributed 30 free silage cutters to farmers in Isingiro district, a region often plagued by drought and water scarcity, which significantly affects dairy production.
The machines were provided to farmers whose properties have been serving as demonstration farms in their respective sub-counties, aimed at improving agribusiness practices in the area.
Speaking to Nile Post, the Isingiro district LC5 Chairman, Alone Turahi, highlighted that the cutters would help reduce the risk of injury from using manual tools like pangas, which many farmers previously used to cut silage.
The cutters will also aid farmers with larger herds, particularly those with over 200 cows, in improving their production levels.
“We are supporting farmers who have been in the business for a long time and have been guiding others in the community. These silage cutters will address the problem of injuries from pangas and boost production, especially in an area suffering from water scarcity and frequent dry spells,” said Turahi.
One beneficiary, Erickson Nabimanya, expressed his enthusiasm, emphasizing the importance of investing in sustainable feeding solutions, especially during the dry season when pasture is scarce.
Nabimanya noted that with the help of the new silage cutter, farmers could preserve enough pasture to sustain their cows throughout the year, ensuring a steady milk supply.
However, farmers were cautioned against selling the silage cutters, with Turahi urging them to assist fellow farmers by allowing others to use the machines, provided they cover the fuel costs.
The Isingiro District Agriculture Engineer, Ambrose Ngabirano, described the silage cutter as user-friendly and efficient, capable of processing up to 2 tons of silage per hour with minimal fuel consumption (2.5 liters per hour).
The average cost of the machine ranges between Shs4.5 million and Shs6 million, depending on the model.
This initiative is seen as a significant step towards improving dairy farming in Isingiro, making it easier for farmers to manage their herds and ensuring a more sustainable approach to milk production despite the region's environmental challenges.