The proposed investment, according to company officials, is aligned with Uganda’s agricultural commercialisation agenda and aims to enhance food security, improve rural livelihoods, and support sustainable development in the region.

In a letter dated April 6, 2025, addressed to the chairperson of the Pakwach Wadelai Rice Irrigation Scheme Cooperative Society Ltd, ITRACOM’s country representative, Mr. Jeunlue Bigirimana, communicated the company’s intent.

“We write to express our interest in securing 1,000 acres of land within the Wadelai Irrigation Scheme to develop a large-scale rice seed and grain production project,” the letter reads.

Mr. Bigirimana emphasised that the scheme’s consistent water supply, fertile soils, and strong government backing for agricultural transformation make Wadelai an ideal site for investment.

ITRACOM Fertilisers Uganda-SMC Ltd. positions itself as a key player in Uganda’s agricultural landscape, with a mission to improve food security, empower smallholder farmers, and promote sustainable growth.

The proposed rice initiative is expected to boost yields, create employment, build local capacity, and contribute to the commercialisation of agriculture in West Nile.

“We believe this investment will unlock significant socio-economic benefits while supporting the government’s vision for agricultural development,” Bigirimana stated.

The company has also pledged compliance with all land-use regulations, environmental safeguards, and community engagement requirements—signalling its commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.

Company Background

ITRACOM Fertilisers Uganda-SMC Ltd is a subsidiary of FOMI Fertilisers, a Burundi-based firm under ITRACOM Holdings, specialising in the production and distribution of organo-mineral fertilisers across the Great Lakes Region.

The company operates in Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, with its Ugandan headquarters located at Plot 2 Ntinda-Kimera Road, Bukenga Building, Kampala.

Site Visit and Stakeholder Support

The proposal follows a fact-finding mission held on April 5, 2025, involving ITRACOM officials, Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), and leadership from the Wadelai Irrigation Scheme.

The mission assessed the scheme’s infrastructure, which includes reliable irrigation systems, nutrient-rich alluvial soils, and access to regional markets—creating an enabling environment for rice production.

A stakeholders’ meeting held in Gulu on April 8, 2025, brought together ITRACOM executives, local farmers, OWC representatives, and General Salim Saleh, Chief Coordinator of OWC.

During the meeting, the project received endorsement from leaders such as Alex Cwinyaai, Chairperson of the Wadelai Irrigation Scheme; Odongo Emilio Wathum, a community leader; and Maj. (Rtd) Emmanuel Owacgiu, OWC Coordinator for Pakwach.

“This investment will integrate thousands of our people into the monetized economy,” Cwinyaai remarked, praising President Yoweri Museveni for prioritising the Wadelai Irrigation Scheme as a key driver of poverty alleviation and inclusive growth.

National Framework and Development Goals

The Wadelai Irrigation Scheme is part of the broader Farm Income Enhancement and Forestry Conservation Project Phase II (FIEFOC-2), supported by the African Development Bank and the Nordic Development Fund.

The project, with an estimated investment of USD 91.7 million, is one of four national irrigation schemes aimed at increasing farm incomes, building climate resilience, and fostering sustainable natural resource management.

The initiative is central to Uganda’s Vision 2040 and National Development Plan III, which prioritise agricultural modernisation and agro-industrialisation as levers for economic transformation.

Regional Development Context

ITRACOM’s proposal comes on the heels of a March 23, 2025, memorandum presented by West Nile leaders to General Salim Saleh.

The document—authored by the West Nile Development Association (WENDA) and private sector stakeholders—calls for equitable regional development, enhanced representation, and a targeted development framework for the region’s 3.8 million people.

The leaders also advocate for leveraging West Nile’s strategic proximity to the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan to drive trade and economic integration.

Odongo Emilio Wathum, president of the Forum for Development of Greater Nebbi, described the Gulu meeting as a “fruitful outcome” of the Wadelai fact-finding mission, noting its potential to tackle the sub-region’s chronic underdevelopment.

With ITRACOM’s entry, the Wadelai Irrigation Scheme is poised to become a model of agro-industrial transformation—aligning with Uganda’s goals of poverty reduction, food security, and regional equity.

The post ITRACOM Seeks 1,000 Acres in Pakwach for Large-Scale Rice Production appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

According to the committee, this increment would bring Uganda closer to meeting its commitment under the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), which requires African Union member states to allocate at least 10 percent of their national budgets to agriculture by 2025.

This recommendation was part of a report presented by the committee chairperson, Hon. Linda Auma, during a House sitting chaired by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa on Thursday, 10 April 2025.

CAADP, a flagship initiative under African Union Agenda 2063, has since its inception under the 2003 Maputo and 2014 Malabo Declarations, helped boost agricultural productivity, trade, and investment across the continent.

Budget Cut Raises Concerns

The committee expressed concern over the recent decline in funding for the Agro-Industrialization Program, noting that the budget dropped from 2.9 percent in FY 2024/2025 to 2.4 percent in FY 2025/2026. This current allocation covers only 70 percent of the Shs2.448 trillion target set under the National Development Plan IV (NDP IV).

Despite agriculture employing over 70 percent of Uganda’s population, it contributes only 24.7 percent to GDP—mainly due to reliance on low-value, raw agricultural output.

Following the rationalisation of government agencies, the Ministry of Agriculture has taken over responsibilities from previously autonomous bodies, including the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA), Dairy Development Authority (DDA), Crop Development Organisation (CDO), and National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS)—yet without a matching budget increase.

The Ministry’s funding has instead dropped from Shs1.182 trillion to Shs806.94 billion, significantly limiting its capacity.

Key Gaps and Recommendations

The committee highlighted critical shortfalls such as Shs15 billion for coffee seedlings and Shs5 billion for hoes, which they deemed insufficient to meet the sector’s needs.

They urged increased investment in high-value crops, including avocado, macadamia, cashew nuts, apples, sunflower, and soya, along with essential inputs such as seeds and fertilisers.

To address low mechanisation, the committee proposed Shs105 billion to expand the national tractor scheme, aiming to acquire 300 tractors annually for the next three years.

They also recommended Shs75 billion to establish mechanisation centres and Shs57.43 billion to bridge gaps in irrigation infrastructure, including the construction of valley dams and water reservoirs.

MPs Back the Proposals

Several MPs supported the committee’s recommendations. Hon. Lee Denis Oguzu (FDC, Maracha County) criticised the mismatch between budget allocations and the NDP IV targets, citing agriculture’s central role in Uganda’s economy.

“Agriculture, especially coffee, which generated US$1.6 billion in FY 2023/2024, is underfunded. If we want more revenue, we must invest more in agriculture,” he stated.

Hon. Abdulhu Byakatonda (Ind., Workers Representative) echoed the concern, lamenting the government’s limited attention to a sector employing the majority of Ugandans.

Hon. Stella Atyang (NRM, Moroto District) pushed for more funding to procure tractors, pointing out that only 10 tractors were allocated to the entire Karamoja sub-region last year.

“Each district needs more tractors to ensure timely agricultural practices,” she said, proposing that each parish should receive at least one tractor.

Hon. Helen Nakimuli (NUP, Kalangala District) commended the inclusion of funding for the Fisheries Protection Unit but urged the government to also subsidise boat engine taxes, which she said currently cost up to Shs10 million, and to provide more support for fishing nets.

Ministry Pledges Support

In response, Hon. Fred Bwino Kyakulaga, Minister of State for Agriculture, welcomed most of the committee’s proposals and pledged to work towards closing the identified budget gaps in the upcoming financial year.

The post Parliament Committee Urges Budget Increase for Agro-Industrialization Programme appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Despite the sector’s potential to drive economic growth and food security, farmers face regulatory hurdles, particularly from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).

Dewilos Fish Farm, led by 2023 Farmer of the Year, Fiona Acayo, recently launched Northern Uganda’s largest fish hatchery, capable of producing 800,000 fingerlings annually.

The farm’s use of organic feeds—Black Soldier Fly larvae, Azolla plants, and livestock byproducts—has positioned it as a model for sustainable fish farming. However, small-scale farmers argue they are unfairly penalized for operating in wetlands, while industries like sand mining and factory construction remain unchecked.

Mr. Alfred Obote, an emerging fish farmer, expressed his frustration:
“The government encouraged us to shift from rice farming to fish farming in wetlands, yet now we face penalties, while real encroachers go unchallenged. This inconsistency is discouraging.”

Commissioner Alice Akello, overseeing Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) in Northern Uganda, acknowledged these concerns at the hatchery’s launch, assuring farmers that the government is working to resolve regulatory bottlenecks.

Beyond aquaculture, Dewilos Fish Farm is committed to environmental conservation. Chief Operations Officer Felix Owilo revealed that the farm has planted over 1,900 trees, transforming a once-barren landscape into a green space.

Fiona Acayo Appeals to President Museveni for Fish Farming Reforms

At the hatchery’s inauguration, Ms. Acayo urged President Yoweri Museveni to reform the fish farming sector by streamlining regulations, improving access to financing, and prioritizing aquaculture as a national economic driver.

“Our hatchery alone can generate UGX 400 million annually from fingerling sales. If the government supports fish farming, Uganda could become a regional leader in fish exports,” she stated.

She also called on commercial banks to make the Agricultural Credit Facility (ACF) more accessible, a concern echoed by Commissioner Akello, who noted that the fund remains underutilized.

“With Uganda seeking to reduce imports and boost agricultural exports, fish farming presents a major economic opportunity. Operation Wealth Creation has pledged to discuss market expansion, particularly targeting South Sudan,” commissioner Akello emphasized.

She added that “If we had 10 farms like Dewilos in Lango, this region would be one of Uganda’s wealthiest.”

The launch of Dewilos’ hatchery marks a turning point for Uganda’s fish farming sector. However, industry leaders stress that regulatory reforms, better financing, and government support are critical for unlocking its full potential.

The post Uganda’s Fish Farmers Demand Fair Regulations as Dewilos Sets New Industry Standards appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The allegations, which include diversion of research funds, procurement fraud, and irregular staff recruitment, threaten to undermine public trust in an institution pivotal to Uganda’s food security and economic stability.

Key Allegations: Swindled Funds and Phantom Projects
The report, compiled by anonymous NARO insiders, accuses senior officials of siphoning millions earmarked for agricultural projects.

Among the most serious claims is the alleged misappropriation of funds intended for developing anti-tick vaccines—a program critical for protecting livestock, a lifeline for rural communities.

Inspectors note that procurement records show UGX 1.2 billion was allocated for vaccine research in 2023, but project leaders reportedly never received the funds.

Procurement irregularities also dominate the allegations.

According to inspectors, in 2020, NARO purchased an industrial oil press machine for UGX 1 billion to process sunflower seeds. Three years later, the equipment remains unused, with staff questioning why it was acquired without plans for deployment or training. Similarly, contracts for laboratory furniture and construction projects were allegedly awarded to companies linked to top officials, bypassing competitive bidding processes.

Staff Morale at Rock Bottom
Current and former employees describe a toxic work environment where junior staff, often underpaid and overworked, shoulder the burden of fieldwork and research.

Senior leadership, meanwhile, is accused of isolating themselves from daily operations. “Decisions are made behind closed doors. Accountability is nonexistent,” one staffer told The Standard News.

The whistleblower report further alleges that some administrative personnel secured jobs using forged academic credentials. A 2022 internal audit reportedly flagged discrepancies in the qualifications of at least five senior hires, including a procurement officer and finance manager, but no disciplinary action was taken.

Medical Insurance Scheme Under Scrutiny
NARO’s staff medical insurance program, which allocates UGX 50 million per employee annually, is also under fire. Documents suggest that only 30% of the funds were used for medical bills in 2023, with the remainder allegedly diverted to unapproved expenses. Staff claim they are often forced to pay out-of-pocket for basic treatments despite the allocated budget.

NARO Holdings: A Shell for Embezzlement?
The agency’s commercial arm, NARO Holdings Limited (NHL), faces allegations of operating as a conduit for embezzlement.

Established to generate revenue for agricultural innovation, NHL instead reportedly funneled UGX 3.5 billion into vague “consultancy services” and partnerships with no tangible outcomes. Auditors found no evidence of deliverables for 12 contracts signed between 2021 and 2023.

Election-Year Reckoning
With Uganda’s 2026 general elections approaching, the scandal has drawn sharp reactions from civil society and political actors. Agriculture sustains over 70% of the population, and mismanagement of NARO could deepen rural discontent.

NARO’s leadership has yet to respond to repeated inquiries from The Standard News. Efforts to contact Director General Dr. Yona Baguma were unsuccessful, with aides citing his “busy schedule.”

What’s Next?
Meanwhile, anti-corruption advocates demand immediate audits and prosecutions. “This isn’t just about stolen money—it’s about stolen futures for Ugandan farmers,” said a Kampala-based NGO director with donors, including the USAID, World Bank, and World Food Programme, which fund NARO projects, are reportedly reviewing their partnerships.

The post From Labs to Looting: How Uganda’s Top Agricultural Agency Betrayed a Nation of Farmers appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Described as one of the most destructive viral diseases of bananas, BBTV has inflicted severe losses on farmers.

Jane Evelyne Othora, Chairperson of the Zombo District Production Committee, reported that recent assessments estimate that 5% of banana gardens have already been destroyed.

“This disease is devastating and has reached an economic threshold requiring urgent intervention by the Ministry of Agriculture,” Othora stated.

She further emphasized the need to engage authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where the disease is believed to have originated, to implement control measures.

Challenges for Farmers

The virus spreads primarily through banana aphids, small black insects that transmit the disease while feeding on the sap of infected plants.

Farmers in Zombo are struggling to control the disease, which has been exacerbated by the porous nature of the Uganda-DRC border.

The movement of infected planting materials is a significant contributor to its spread.

Many farmers feel helpless as their banana crops, vital both as a staple food and a source of income, continue to decline.

“Farmers are losing their livelihoods, and we urgently need government intervention,” said Binen David Arua, a district councillor for Jangokoro Sub-County.

The virus, first reported in Zombo in 2021, has now spread to several sub-counties, including Nyapea, Abanga, Jangokoro, Paidha, Atyak, Kango, and Alangi, as well as Paidha and Padea town councils.

Zombo District Agriculture Officer, Patrick Anenuiu, confirmed the situation:
“We identified the disease in two spots in 2024, and now cases have been confirmed in multiple areas. Unfortunately, some hidden gardens are still harbouring the disease due to a lack of awareness among farmers.”

Experts from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF) have engaged stakeholders in Zombo to devise strategies, including intensive sensitization campaigns, to curb the spread of BBTV.

Dr. Joab Tugume, Senior Agriculturalist in charge of quarantine at MAAIF, advised farmers to frequently inspect their gardens and immediately destroy infected plants.
“This disease originated from the DRC. We are urging farmers to stop exchanging planting materials, particularly with border communities,” Tugume said.

Similarly, George Mahogo, a plant pathologist with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, urged farmers to burn infected banana suckers to prevent the spread of aphids.

Symptoms of banana bunchy top disease include:

• Dark green streaks on the underside of leaves in a Morse code-like pattern.
• Stunted and deformed banana bunches in mature plants.
• Small, unmarketable, and deformed fruit.

BBTV-infected banana plants rarely produce fruit, and any fruit that is produced is often unsuitable for consumption or sale.

With a population of over 300,000, most of whom rely on bananas for sustenance and income, Zombo is considered West Nile’s leading banana-producing district.

Leaders and agriculturalists continue to advocate for robust interventions to save the region’s vital crop and prevent further losses to the farming community.

The post Concern Mounts Over Rapid Spread of Banana Bunchy Top Virus appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Understanding Land Tenure Systems

Uganda operates under four land tenure systems: Mailo, Freehold, Leasehold, and Customary.

• Mailo land is most common in central Uganda and often comes with legal complexities, such as tenant rights under the Land Act.
• Freehold land offers perpetual ownership and is ideal for buyers seeking full ownership rights.
• Leasehold land is common for urban plots and government-owned properties, typically offered for a specified number of years.
• Customary land involves communal ownership, mostly in rural areas, and may lack formal documentation, making verification crucial.

Conduct a Title Search

Before purchasing, it is essential to verify the authenticity of the land title. This can be done at the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development or through the district land office. A title search confirms ownership, boundaries, and any encumbrances such as mortgages or disputes.

Engage a Qualified Surveyor

A professional surveyor ensures that the land boundaries match the title deed. Boundary disputes are common in Uganda, especially in rural areas, and a surveyor’s report provides clarity before finalising the transaction.

Check for Land Encumbrances

Many properties may have disputes or claims from third parties, such as family members or tenants. Buyers should confirm that the land is free of any encumbrances, including pending court cases or overlapping claims.

Hire a Lawyer

Engaging a qualified land lawyer ensures that the transaction adheres to Ugandan property laws. A lawyer can also draft and review the sale agreement, ensuring clarity on terms of payment, transfer of ownership, and dispute resolution mechanisms.

Assess Land Use and Zoning Regulations

Different areas have specific zoning regulations governing residential, commercial, agricultural, or industrial use. Buyers should verify that the intended use of the land aligns with local zoning laws to avoid penalties or demolition.

Consider Accessibility and Utilities

Access to roads, water, and electricity significantly impacts land value and usability. Buyers should inspect the property and assess the availability of essential utilities and infrastructure.

Factor in Future Development Plans

Investigating local development plans can offer insights into the land’s potential value appreciation. Proximity to upcoming roads, schools, or commercial centres may increase its appeal, while planned industrial projects might reduce its residential desirability.

Understand Tax Obligations

Land transactions attract taxes, including stamp duty, which is typically 1% of the land’s value. Buyers should ensure these payments are cleared to avoid legal issues during ownership transfer.

Beware of Brokers and Middlemen

While brokers can provide useful leads, some may inflate prices or misrepresent property details. It is advisable to deal directly with the owner or use a reputable agent to mitigate risks.

Verify Ownership and Spousal Consent

If the landowner is married, spousal consent is mandatory under Ugandan law. Buyers should confirm this to prevent future claims by the spouse.

Finalising the Purchase

Once all due diligence is completed, the sale agreement is signed, and payments are made, the transfer of ownership must be registered with the land registry. This ensures the buyer’s name appears on the title deed, solidifying ownership.

By adhering to these steps, prospective land buyers in Uganda can minimise risks and secure their investments transparently and legally. With Uganda’s real estate sector growing rapidly, informed decisions remain critical in avoiding costly disputes or losses.

The post Key Factors to Consider When Buying Land in Uganda appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Allen Juliet and Ivan Mukasa, experienced maize growers and assistant managers at Flyland Organic Farms in Nakasongola, share a detailed guide on how to plant maize for optimal results.

1. Field Selection

Field selection is critical, and three factors must be considered:

• Altitude: Maize thrives at higher altitudes, with favourable conditions above 140m. However, other factors such as south-facing sites and free-draining soil must also be present to compensate for the altitude.
• Aspect: Choose south-facing fields with minimal exposure to harsh conditions.
• Soil Type: Medium loams are ideal, as they warm up early in the season, supporting strong plant development. Avoid heavy clay soils, which can hinder seedbed preparation, and extremely sandy soils that dry out quickly.

2. Seedbed Preparation

Maize needs a deep, loose seedbed to allow for unrestricted root growth. Compact soil conditions can delay crop maturity and reduce yield.

• Use machinery like crumblers to loosen soil instead of compacting it further.
• Avoid shallow assessments of dryness; ensure deep soil layers are ready for planting.

3. Drilling and Sowing

Maize seeds must be planted at a uniform depth and in moisture-rich soil.

• Soil temperature should consistently reach 8°C in the mornings over four to five days before drilling.
• Aim to complete drilling by the end of April; delays into May can result in a 1% yield loss per day.
• Sow seeds 7-8 cm deep to prevent damage from birds and pests, ensuring uniform depth and spacing. Precision drills with 76 cm rows are ideal.

4. Variety Selection

Variety choices should be guided by experience and local success stories.

• Farmers should target yields of at least 49.9t/ha (20t/acre) fresh weight.
• Choose a variety that will mature adequately by the end of October.

5. Weed Control

Maize struggles to compete with weeds during its early growth stages.

• Apply pre-emergent herbicides after drilling to control weeds before they develop.
• Avoid delays in post-emergence weed control; tackle weeds before they reach the 2-leaf stage.

6. Crop Nutrition

Nitrogen is essential for maize growth, with additional requirements for potash and phosphate.

• Recommended rates: 180kg/ha potash, 40kg/ha phosphate, and 150kg/ha nitrogen.
• Split nitrogen application: 75% in the seedbed and 25% at the 1-3 leaf stage to overcome the yellow phase at emergence.
• Test soil to account for nutrients from slurry or farmyard manure.

7. Pest and Disease Management

While relatively pest-free, maize can face challenges, particularly when planted after grass.

• Use insecticide and fungicide dressings during drilling to protect against pests like wireworms and corn borers, as well as diseases such as eye spots.

Why Maize is a Valuable Crop in Uganda

Maize is widely consumed across Uganda and supports various byproducts. It matures quickly, is easy to grow, and enjoys high market demand, making it a staple for both farmers and consumers.

By following these steps, Ugandan maize farmers can maximise their yields and profitability while maintaining sustainable practices.

The post Easy Recommended Ways to Grow Maize for High Yields in Uganda appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

According to Israel Ssebugenyi, the Technology Development Manager at the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA), this number has been achieved within the first two weeks of the registration drive.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries, together with UCDA, initiated the national registration last month.

This move is crucial for Uganda to maintain access to the European Union coffee market, which is a key destination for the country’s coffee exports.

The EUDR mandates that all coffee exported to the EU must be traceable throughout its value chain, addressing concerns about quality, environmental degradation, and human rights.

Ssebugenyi stated that the company overseeing the registration has so far recorded information from at least 170,000 individuals, mainly coffee farmers spread across various regions.

However, this number represents only a small portion of the estimated 1.6 million households engaged in coffee farming nationwide. Despite the gap, Ssebugenyi remains confident that the registration process will ultimately cover the entire target population.

Ssebugenyi called on local leaders and stakeholders to mobilise farmers and encourage participation, noting that misconceptions had initially made some communities reluctant to register. However, he mentioned that increased sensitisation efforts are helping change attitudes.

Ponsiano Matovu, General Secretary of the Greater Masaka Coffee Federation, urged the government to support cooperative unions to aid the registration process.

He emphasised that beyond meeting EU market requirements, the registration could also help cooperatives better organise primary farmers’ societies, strengthening the cooperative movement overall.

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The President began his visit with a tour of successful model farmers in Kakumiro District and later addressed a large gathering at Kikwaya playgrounds.

During the rally, he emphasised the importance of modern farming practices and shared insights from his long-standing efforts to improve agricultural productivity in Uganda.

President Museveni underscored the significance of enterprise selection and proper land utilisation, key principles of the four-acre model.

He acknowledged testimonies from farmers who have benefited from the initiative, as well as challenges faced by those who selected unsuitable enterprises.

“Several people attested to the success of the four-acre model, while others shared the difficulties arising from poor enterprise choices,” Museveni said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. He commended local leaders for championing the model and urged them to continue providing practical guidance to farmers.

The President also reflected on his earlier efforts to transform traditional mindsets about wealth and livestock farming. He recounted the challenges he faced in encouraging the Banyankole community to adopt high-quality cattle breeds suitable for limited grazing land.

Encouraging Youth Participation

In his address, Museveni highlighted the role of youth in driving societal progress. He reminded the audience of his involvement in the 1980 liberation movement and urged young people to embrace innovation and resilience.

“This is a continuation of efforts I started in the 1960s to change the mindset of farmers. Many thought wealth was determined by the number of cattle, but I encouraged adopting breeds that suit smaller plots, which has improved living standards,” he said.

Transitioning from cattle to crop farming, the President identified that traditional crops like tea, tobacco, and sugarcane often require extensive land, which is scarce. He introduced the Four-Acre Model, proposing that a farmer could thrive on just four acres: one for cash crops like coffee, one for food crops, another for fruits, and the last for housing or livestock.

The President, who is also the NRM national chairman shared successful examples from various regions, such as coffee cultivation in Greater Masaka, palm oil farming in Kalangala, and citrus farming in Teso, where he promised to establish a new fruit processing facility.

Mr Museveni also highlighted the economic potential of the Four-Acre Model, stating that farmers could earn profits of nearly 60 million shillings annually after expenses.

One of the model farmers, Abigaba Stuart, shared his success story, revealing that his two acres of coffee yielded 21 million shillings over two seasons, enabling him to build a house, buy a motorcycle, and pay for his children’s education.

In response to this testimony, President Museveni encouraged maize farmers to consider transitioning to more profitable crops like coffee. He pledged to provide free coffee seedlings to the farmers through the National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO) and the Ministry of Agriculture.

The President also advised farmers to adopt irrigation practices, rather than relying solely on rainfall, and expressed concern over the misuse of wetlands, advocating for their use as irrigation sources.

The Prime Minister, Rt. Hon Robinah Nabbanja commended President Museveni for always guiding Ugandans on how to fight poverty through different wealth creation initiatives such as commercial agriculture.

“Even me, I started a four-acre model farm, and I will invite you one day and see what we have done,” Rt. Hon. Nabbanja noted. “I also have 6 acres of onions, I get between Shs 300 – Shs 400 million.”

The Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Matia Kasaija thanked the President for his initiative of preaching wealth creation through commercial agriculture to Ugandans. “We appreciate you so much, Your Excellency,” he said.

The Minister of State for Transport, Hon. Fred Byamukama appreciated President Museveni for the visit and for launching the model which will go a long way in promoting commercial agriculture, thus helping the farmers to create wealth.

“We believe in five years to come, every sub-county will be having more than 100 Model farmers,” he said.

President Museveni concluded the Kakumiro visit by directing the Ministry of Agriculture to assist farmers with artificial insemination, promoting improved livestock breeds. He reiterated the transformative impact of the Four-Acre Model and urged farmers to embrace this approach for sustainable development.

Overview of 4-Acre Model

The 4-acre model initiative was born out of the regional tours undertaken by H.E. the President in May 2019, with the main focus on skills development and capacity building in mainly commercial Agriculture, Manufacturing, ICT and services.

The ultimate objective of the initiative is to identify ways of creating wealth and jobs to foster growth in household income and, the promotion of industrialization as a key driver of growth in the economy.

During the tour, H.E. the President promoted the four-acre model for prosperity, which can support the growing of coffee, fruits, food crops, zero grazing of dairy cattle, poultry, piggery and fish farming. He also pointed out the establishment of industrial parks as central to promoting industrialization.

Accordingly, H.E. the President set up the Nakyobe Fund, which is spearheaded by the State House Comptroller to implement the initiative.

With guidance and support from the Ministry of Local Government, The Local Governments have already provided land for the establishment of Industrial parks in the twenty zones namely; Mengo, Mubende, Masaka, Busoga, Bukedi, Bugisu, Sebei, Teso, Karamoja, Lango, Acholi, Madi, West Nile, Bunyoro, Kasese, Bundibudgyo – Ntoroko, Ankole, Kigezi, Tooro and Kampala. These Industrial parks are managed by the Local Governments that make up each zone.

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The tour will focus on the performance and challenges of the PDM, a government-led initiative designed to foster socio-economic transformation at the parish level.

According to a statement from the PPU released on Tuesday, November 12, the President is scheduled to meet with key stakeholders, including local leaders, technical staff, and community representatives, during his tour. He will also address public gatherings in Soroti City and other districts within the Teso sub-region.

The visit follows President Museveni’s recent assessment tour of the Bukedi sub-region, where he urged residents to embrace commercial agriculture under the four-acre model, a core component of the PDM. During his visit to Bukedi, the President underscored the importance of “ekibaro” (planning with profitability in mind) to improve household incomes. Under the four-acre model, households are encouraged to cultivate one acre for coffee, another for fruit trees, a third for dairy pasture, and the fourth for food crops, thereby diversifying income sources and enhancing food security.

The PDM, launched in February 2022 at Kibuku Primary School in Kibuku District, Bukedi Sub-region, uses a whole-of-government approach to drive development and prosperity at the community level. It aligns with other government livelihood programs such as Emyooga and supports Uganda’s goal of wealth creation and socio-economic transformation.

For the financial year 2024/25, the government has allocated UGX 1.059 trillion to the PDM, which will result in an additional UGX 100 million being disbursed to each parish to increase household participation and productivity. This funding boost aims to expand the reach and impact of the PDM across Uganda’s communities, helping more households improve their economic standing.

As part of his ongoing assessment tour, President Museveni will review the implementation progress, listen to feedback from the Teso sub-region’s stakeholders, and emphasize the government’s commitment to empowering communities through sustainable livelihood initiatives.

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