Alebtong District: In a bid to enhance agricultural productivity and shift from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture, Alebtong District has received a significant boost with the acquisition of 14 handheld tractors and a four-wheeled tractor.
The handheld tractors, designated for the various sub-counties, aim to empower local farmers by providing them with efficient tools for land cultivation. Additionally, the four-wheeled tractor has been allocated to the Amugu Agro Technical Institute, a move aimed at bolstering agricultural education and practical training.
Hon. Denis Hamson Obua, Government Chief Whip and Ajuri Member of Parliament, emphasized the initiative’s role in transforming the agricultural landscape. He highlighted its alignment with the National Resistance Movement Manifesto, aiming to equip each sub-county with essential farming machinery.
“This initiative is geared towards transitioning farmers from subsistence to commercial agriculture,” Hon. Obua affirmed, underlining the broader strategy to reinforce agricultural productivity across Acholi, Lango, and West Nile Sub regions.
The endeavor comes at a critical juncture, with Uganda’s huge arable land underutilized, as noted by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization. Despite its potential to feed millions, only a fraction of the land is cultivated, underscoring the need for concerted efforts to modernize and optimize agricultural practices.
David Kennedy Odongo, the Chairperson of Alebtong District, echoed the call for increased support to the agricultural sector. He emphasized the importance of transitioning to commercial farming to harness the district’s agricultural potential fully.
The allocation of equipment to the Amugu Agro Technical Institute received applause from Samuel Mujunga, the institution’s principal. He expressed gratitude for the resources, emphasizing their pivotal role in empowering students and farming communities alike.
Mujunga noted, “The availability of this equipment will not only benefit our students but also contribute to the agricultural development of the region. With a significant number of students pursuing agriculture-related courses, the inclusion of tractors fills a critical gap.”
For many smallholder farmers, access to tractors represents a pathway to increased productivity and profitability. However, the prohibitive costs often hinder their aspirations. The recent allocation of machinery signals a step towards inclusive agricultural development, fostering a conducive environment for sustainable farming practices and economic growth.
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