MUGABE R
Ginger farmers in Rukungiri District under the South Western Ginger Farmers Association have earmarked processing and packaging equipment worth 320 million shillings to establish a factory in the district.
This was revealed today, Tuesday, 15th April 2025, by Ms. Judith Tumuhimbise, the association coordinator, during a meeting at Heritage Country Hotel in Rwakabengo Ward, Southern Division, Rukungiri Municipality.
Ms. Judith appreciated the growth of ginger farming since its inception in 2018, with an investment of over 800 million shillings in inputs such as seedlings. She announced donor-funded equipment for value addition worth 320 million shillings, lobbied by Hon. Mary Paula Kebirungi Turyahikayo.
Francis Kikabakebya, a farmer from Rwentondo Ward, expressed gratitude for the ginger project, noting he sold produce and bought cattle, which helped pay school fees for his children.
Dan Arinaitwe Rukiiko, also from Rwentondo, welcomed news of the factory and pledged to prioritize ginger farming due to the promise of value addition and a ready market.
Hon. Mary Paula Kebirungi Turyahikayo, former Rubabo County MP and Woman MP aspirant, praised the farmers’ value addition efforts, citing previous achievements like electricity extension that led to factory growth in Rubabo. She pledged to prioritize agricultural value addition and improving livelihoods.
Ms. Joan Kakwenzire, Head of the State House Poverty Alleviation Program, delivered presidential support of 20 million shillings. She urged farmers to boost production and recruit new members to ensure a steady supply for the factory.
The factory will be established on the association’s land near Kagogo Forest Reserve in Western Division, Rukungiri Municipality.
