SIMPSON M
A total of 13,750 coffee seedlings have been distributed to farmers in Rukungiri District, particularly in Greater Buyanja, under a government initiative aimed at increasing coffee production and promoting household economic transformation in Uganda.
The seedlings, valued at 60 million shillings, were provided by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF). The distribution took place at the Rukungiri District Headquarters and was witnessed by the Resident District Commissioner, Bron Kikanshemeza.
In addition to the seedlings, the district production office also distributed pesticides to help farmers control pests and improve yields.
The Rukungiri District Production Officer, Mr. Onek Pius Kwesiiga, commended the government for the initiative, noting that it will boost coffee production among farmers. He revealed that this is the first batch out of 30,000 seedlings expected, with the remaining to be delivered by contractor Derrick Nasasiira.
However, Mr. Kwesiiga expressed concern about the timing of the distribution, citing reduced rainfall. He advised farmers to water the seedlings daily, especially those without irrigation systems, to prevent them from drying out.
He also pledged continued monitoring to ensure proper use of the government resources.
Speaking at the event, the Resident District Commissioner praised the government for supporting household income improvement through coffee farming. He encouraged Ugandans to embrace coffee growing, noting its high demand and income potential.
However, he criticized the Ministry of Agriculture for failing to deliver the seedlings during the rainy season, which would have been more favorable for farmers without irrigation systems. He urged beneficiaries to take extra care of the seedlings through regular watering.
Some of the beneficiary farmers, including Sabiiti Eric Banard, Chairperson of Greater Buyanja Coffee Growers Society, and Kampurira Joseph, Chairperson of Bugangari Coffee Farmers Cooperative Society, welcomed the support from the government.
They called on authorities to ensure reliable market access for their produce to avoid future losses. While they appreciated the initiative, they also expressed concern over the delayed delivery of the seedlings and urged fellow farmers to take responsibility for nurturing them despite the dry conditions.
The farmers further highlighted challenges such as theft during harvesting seasons, which they said is often carried out by individuals who do not own coffee plantations.
They encouraged more Ugandans to take up coffee farming as a way of improving household incomes.
