Rukungiri District emerges the 1st position in Uganda’s Micro-Irrigation Program, benefiting 165 farmers and setting a standard for effective agricultural practices. Funded by the World Bank in collaboration with the Ugandan government through the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Industry, the initiative aims to improve farmers’ livelihoods and enhance food security the program that was implemented during the financial year 2020/2021in the district.
Rukungiri Local government officials showcased various irrigation methods at demonstration sites in Mugamba, Rukonkoma, and Rwembongo. Notably, 31 farmers from Kebisoni and 29 from Buyanja Sub County participated in the program. A total of 165 out of 1,091 interested farmers have now benefited, placing Rukungiri at the forefront of the Micro-Scale Irrigation Program in Uganda.
Alfred Ahumuza, Senior Agricultural Engineer for Rukungiri District, has explained today during the meeting that was held at the district Head quarters in the district main hall that the program operated on a co-funding model where Farmers contributed 25% of the costs, while the government covered the remaining 75%. Although the initiative concluded in June, there are hopes for a similar program in the future, as the World Bank initially funded it for five years.
Despite its successes, the program faced challenges, including financial barriers and technical issues. However, the leadership in Rukungiri, particularly former Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Bewayo Steven Nsubuga, effectively addressed these obstacles. The local government plans to engage more farmers in the renewed funding phase and provide additional technical training to enhance their agricultural capabilities.
To celebrate the achievements of the program, the Rukungiri local government recognized outstanding individuals and groups who contributed significantly to its success. Awards were given to various participants, including Christine Nankwansa from Kebisoni for her contributions as a woman farmer, and youth representatives Asiimwe Nelson and Mugabi Ismael from Ruhinda Sub County. Local leaders, such as Mayor Charles Makuru and Geoffrey Kyomukama, Chairperson LC 5, were also honored for their exemplary leadership in implementing the program.
Geoffrey Kyomukama emphasized the program’s impact on food supply in the district. He noted that it has not only increased food production for participating families but has also benefited the wider community. The initiative has significantly reduced the challenges of crop drying during dry seasons, encouraging more farmers to participate.
Deputy RDC Ahimbisibwe Wilberforce Ongom, who represented the RDC at the awards ceremony, expressed gratitude for the World Bank’s funding. He highlighted the program’s positive effect on alleviating food shortages, particularly in areas like Bwambara and Bugangari Sub Counties. Ongom urged the Ugandan government to seek additional funding for another five years, noting that community interest in the program has grown significantly.
As Rukungiri District continues to lead in agricultural innovation, the outlook for its farmers remains promising, with hopes for expanded support and enhanced agricultural practices in the years to come.
