Posted on December, 11, 2024 at 08:45 am
The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF) has launched the $354 million (Shs1.3 billion) Climate Smart Agricultural Transformation Project (CSAT) in Tororo District.
Co-funded by the Ugandan government and the World Bank, the six-year initiative aims to counteract the effects of climate change by enhancing agricultural productivity, improving market access, and strengthening the value chains for crops, livestock, and fisheries.
The project will focus on 12 sub-counties in Tororo District, where climate challenges such as excessive rainfall and prolonged dry spells have disrupted farming activities.
Speaking during a stakeholders' engagement meeting at the district chambers, Dr James Kakungulu, Assistant Commissioner for Veterinary Regulations and Enforcement at MAAIF, underscored the initiative's transformative scope.
“The project will support the entire value chain, from seeds to production, harvesting, storage, value addition, and marketing. This comprehensive approach ensures that farmers can maximize the benefits,” said Dr Kakungulu.
Farmers participating in the project are required to co-fund at least 20% of the allocated resources. According to Dr Kakungulu, this measure promotes sustainability and a sense of ownership among beneficiaries.
“By contributing to an investment, farmers feel a greater sense of ownership. This is far better than providing 100% free items, as it fosters sustainability and allows others to benefit,” he explained.
Additionally, farmers must belong to registered farmer groups and have active enterprises to qualify for funding, ensuring the efficient and equitable use of resources.
Local leaders have expressed optimism about the project's potential to address long-standing climate challenges. John Odoi, secretary for production in Tororo, welcomed the initiative.
“We are all concerned about climate. If this project addresses climate challenges, it will help mitigate the heavy rains and dry spells that have negatively impacted production,” said Odoi.
With its significant budget and expansive objectives, the Climate Smart Agricultural Transformation Project stands as one of MAAIF’s most ambitious undertakings.
It is expected to deliver sustainable solutions to the adverse effects of climate change while improving livelihoods for thousands of farmers in Tororo.
By integrating modern agricultural practices with sustainable funding models, the project reinforces the Ministry’s commitment to fostering resilience and self-reliance in Uganda’s agricultural sector.
Source: Nilepost