A field day held in Isingiro District today underscored the pressing challenges confronting local agriculture amid ongoing dry conditions.
This event was part of the UGIFT Microscale Irrigation Project, designed to educate farmers on acquiring microscale irrigation equipment and adapting to challenging agricultural circumstances.
Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Nasiima Adah highlighted the significance of government support in enhancing agricultural productivity.
"We are here to connect with farmers who have benefitted from these programs and to inspire others to take advantage of available opportunities," she stated, emphasizing how government tools and funding could significantly transform farming in the region.
Success stories from top-performing subcounties, Marsha and Birere, were presented as examples of how irrigation can enhance agricultural outcomes.
Farmers in these areas have effectively utilized irrigation technologies to boost productivity, even amidst climate challenges. In contrast, subcounties like Kabingo have faced difficulties, including delayed planting and lower participation in the project.
District Engineer Ambrose Ngabirano discussed both achievements and ongoing issues.
"Each farmer receives UGX 18 million under this project, with 75% funded by the government and a 25% co-funding contribution from the farmers," he explained.
Ngabirano revealed that last year, 47 farmers were supported, with plans to assist 80 more this year.
He also mentioned that last year, 203 farmers registered for the program, each paying a commitment fee of 1 million shillings.
With a total of shs800 million allocated last year, the district’s agricultural performance has improved, leading to additional funding for this year.
However, despite these successes, equipment maintenance remains a challenge.
The district plans to establish four more demonstration sites and additional farmer schools within the year to train more farmers and expand the project.
Kirega Aruho, head of the Loans Department at Centenary Bank, encouraged farmers, saying, "We invite all farmers to take advantage of our affordable loan options specifically designed for irrigation projects. With the right support, you can purchase equipment to significantly improve your agricultural productivity and secure your financial future."
He emphasized the importance of direct fund deposits into district accounts for accountability, reporting that none of the 30 farmers funded have raised complaints, underscoring the effectiveness of the support system.
Beinomugisha Jocelyn, the Secretary for Production, praised the program's impact on poverty reduction, particularly among women.
"I commend the president for these poverty eradication initiatives. Women should leverage programs like PDM and Emyooga to improve their economic status," Beinomugisha urged.
Retired Col. Twaha Kanyoma, a farmer, shared his success story, detailing how the initiative enabled him to diversify his farming activities beyond bananas into fish farming, tomato cultivation, and beekeeping.
"The support I received has made a significant difference in my farming," he noted.
Alone Tuhairwe, the LC5 chairperson of Isingiro District, emphasized the need for processing machines for matooke to boost production, pointing out that low prices necessitate value addition.
He also encouraged the community to utilize government programs.
Leaders hope that sharing successful experiences from high-performing subcounties will motivate struggling areas like Kabingo to enhance their agricultural productivity and fully utilize the irrigation systems in place.