A joint delegation from the Ministry of Local Government, the Ministry of Finance, and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has concluded a field visit to Bunyangabu District as part of a closure mission for the Local Economic Growth Support (LEGS) Project, which has significantly boosted livelihoods and local enterprises in the area.
Bunyangabu District has benefited from both Component A, which focuses on enhancing agricultural productivity, and Component B, which supports community enterprises through financial assistance and working capital.
According to officials, the LEGS Project, in partnership with the Microfinance Support Centre, has disbursed Shs 976 million to over 3,200 community members in Bunyangabu.
The funding has strengthened small-scale businesses, improved agricultural output, and raised household incomes.
During the visit, the delegation toured several beneficiary groups showcasing the tangible results of the project’s interventions.
These included the Rwimi United Development Association, which received infrastructure support and a rice processing machine; the Kageera Banana Farmers Association, which benefited from 40 market stalls and two open sheds; and the Bunyangabu Beekeepers Cooperative (BBC), which received Shs 270 million to expand operations and improve value addition.
Dr. David Siriri, Country Director of the Mellinelinum Promise Alliance (MPA), applauded farmers for embracing the Input Voucher Scheme, one of the project’s key initiatives.
“Through the 50/50 cost-sharing arrangement, more than 2,200 farmers have accessed high-quality agricultural inputs at affordable prices. This has greatly enhanced productivity and increased household earnings,” Dr. Siriri explained.
The Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Nicholas Kamukama, praised the district’s achievements under the LEGS Project, noting that sustainable development requires both access to resources and a positive attitude toward change.
“This project has demonstrated that with the right support, communities can transform their livelihoods. What remains is a mindset shift among our people to make full use of such opportunities and move out of poverty,” Kamukama said.
He also pledged the district’s continued commitment to training and sensitizing communities to ensure the gains made are maintained and expanded.
Several beneficiaries shared testimonies highlighting how the LEGS Project has transformed their lives. Aisha Asimwe, a member of the Rwimi United Development Association, said she has transitioned from small-scale farming to running a thriving rice milling business.
At Kageera Market, vendors are also enjoying the benefits of improved infrastructure. Sylvia Kabanyoro, a beans trader, said business has expanded significantly since the market was upgraded.
“We now have enough space to display our goods, and more customers are coming in. What was once a small banana market has become a vibrant trading center attracting a wide variety of products,” Kabanyoro said.
The LEGS Project, jointly funded by the Government of Uganda and the Islamic Development Bank, aims to stimulate inclusive economic growth by empowering communities, especially women and youth, through agriculture and enterprise development.
As the project concludes, local leaders and development partners expressed optimism that the structures and skills established under LEGS will continue to drive self-reliance and economic transformation across Bunyangabu District.