Kazo Farmers Boost Year Round Harvests Through Government Irrigation Programme
The story
Farmers in Kazo District are embracing a new era of agricultural productivity following the introduction of micro-irrigation systems under a government programme designed to boost food production and strengthen climate resilience in Uganda's cattle corridor.
The initiative, implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) with funding from the World Bank, is enabling farmers to produce crops throughout the year despite prolonged dry spells that have increasingly affected the district.
Details
For decades, agriculture in Kazo largely depended on seasonal rainfall. However, the growing impact of climate change has made rainfall patterns more unpredictable, leading to frequent crop failures, food insecurity and declining household incomes.
To address these challenges, the Government of Uganda launched the Micro-Scale Irrigation Programme in 2024, targeting farmers engaged in high-value enterprises such as coffee, bananas, vegetables and fruit production.
Under the cost-sharing arrangement, the government covers 85 percent of the cost of irrigation equipment, while farmers contribute the remaining 15 percent, making the technology more affordable for smallholder farmers.
For Robert Mwebesa, a passion fruit farmer from Bwagonga Parish in Kanoni Sub-county, the irrigation system has completely transformed his farming practices.
"Before receiving the irrigation equipment, I depended entirely on rainfall. Whenever the dry season came, I would lose most of my crops. Today, I can irrigate my garden whenever necessary, harvest throughout the year and earn a steady income for my family," Mwebesa said.
Another beneficiary, Abel Betsiga of Bishozi Parish in Engari Sub-county, said the reliable water supply has significantly improved both the quality and quantity of his harvests.
Why it matters
This is a public-interest story for readers because it touches institutions, communities, policy decisions, or services that affect daily life. Mods99 News will continue updating the article if more verified details become available.