STAFF REPORTER
Ultus Consultants Uganda today convened a stakeholders’ sensitization meeting on the Matanda Irrigation Scheme at the Catholic Social Centre in Kanungu Town Council. The meeting brought together local leaders, government representatives, and community members to deliberate on the project’s progress and its anticipated impact on livelihoods.
Lilian Turyagyenda, a facilitator from Ultus Consultants, noted that the team has been actively engaging the community through awareness campaigns and dialogue forums to ensure inclusive participation. “We have been working hard to ensure inclusive participation from the grassroots level,” she said.
Judith Ruko, another consultant from Ultus Uganda, reassured participants that the central government has committed to compensating residents whose land is affected by the scheme. She encouraged local leaders to help inform communities about the long-term benefits of the irrigation project.
Kanungu District official Politique JB Emmanuel explained that even residents not directly benefiting from the irrigation infrastructure will receive support through alternative livelihood programs, including beekeeping, aquaculture, and animal husbandry.
Speaking on behalf of the LC5 Chairperson, District Councillor Rev. Levi Tirinawe raised concerns over land compensation rates, stating that many residents felt their land was undervalued. He recommended that areas like Kanyungusi, which the irrigation pipelines pass through, should also benefit from the scheme.
The irrigation infrastructure is expected to be installed in Ibarya and Nyakabuga in Kihanda Sub-county.
Solomon Akatwijuka, the Parish Chief of Nyakatoma Parish, applauded the government for the initiative and pledged to mobilize local support.
Resident District Commissioner Ambrose Mwesige Amanyire closed the meeting with a call for environmental conservation and community protection of the project. “The Matanda Irrigation Scheme is intended to uplift the standards of living for our people,” he said.
