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Climate-Resilient Agriculture: USD 190M World Bank-funded project to benefit 63,200 farmers
State Minister for Animal Industry, Hon. Rwamirama Bright Kanyontore, represented the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF) in the official launch of the “Irrigation for Climate Resilience Project” in Isingiro District.
The project, jointly implemented by MAAIF and the Ministry of Water and Environment, aims to improve access to irrigation for 63,200 farmers. The launch ceremony took place on Wednesday, 26th July 2023.
Designed to alleviate the challenges faced by farmers due to climate variability, this project commenced on 17th December 2020 and is scheduled to run until 30th April 2026. As part of the inauguration, the Kabuyanda Irrigation scheme in Isingiro District was commissioned, becoming one of the largest irrigation schemes in the country, covering 3300 hectares.
In addition to Isingiro District, this project will also establish large and small-scale irrigation schemes in various regions across the country, including Kanungu, Rukungiri, Lamwo, Tororo, Lira, Wakiso, Mpigi, and Mukono.
The initiative goes beyond providing irrigation infrastructure. It aims to empower farmers through a farmer field school (FFS) approach, improving their knowledge and skills. Furthermore, it will enhance farmers’ access to vital inputs such as improved seeds and fertilizers, along with on-farm irrigation technologies, machinery, and post-harvest and agro-processing infrastructures. These support measures will be facilitated through the use of smart subsidies and consultancy services.
Funding for this comprehensive project comes from the World Bank, with a total investment of USD 190M. In her address, Hon. Aisha Sekindi, the Minister of State for Water, emphasized that this project is part of the government’s strategy to enhance climate change resilience and boost agricultural productivity.
During the launch, Hon. Rwamirama noted the significance of the project in reducing dependency on rain-fed agriculture in the project districts. He urged farmers to embrace this transformative endeavour, which will benefit all farmers and particularly those engaged in the beef and dairy sectors. The availability of water for stressed animals is crucial in ensuring they fetch premium prices for their products.
Hon. Rwamirama also commended the collaboration between MAAIF and the Ministry of Water in successfully implementing this critical project, which will have a far-reaching impact on agriculture and rural development in the region.
