EDITOR
The Diocese of Kigezi has launched a Hass Avocado program aimed at transforming household incomes and promoting food security across the region.
The initiative, unveiled at St. Peter’s Rugarama Cathedral under the theme “Make Hass Avocado the main cash crop of Kigezi by 2035 — let’s start the journey together,” seeks to encourage every household to plant at least five Hass Avocado trees.
According to the Diocesan Secretary, Rev. Can. Milton Nkurunungi, the program is designed to enhance income generation and reduce poverty by tapping into the region’s favorable climate and fertile soils, which are ideal for avocado cultivation. He explained that unlike many other crops, Hass Avocado takes a relatively short time to start producing and enjoys high market demand both locally and internationally.
The launch was graced by Dr. Rolland Agaba, Acting Director at NARO’s Kachwekano Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute, who noted that Kigezi remains one of the poorest regions in Uganda and faces persistent challenges such as landslides and lack of sustainable cash crops. He expressed optimism that with proper support and training, Hass Avocado farming could significantly improve livelihoods and turn Kigezi into a leading hub for avocado production.
The program will equip farmers with practical training and technical guidance to maximize productivity while establishing reliable market linkages to ensure that Kigezi’s avocados reach profitable markets both locally and abroad.
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