Amolatar secures over $20k for climate smart agriculture project

Amolatar district has secured more than shs75 million (over $20k) in funding to improve agricultural productivity and combat climate change.

The amount is part of the Uganda Climate Smart Agricultural Transformation Project (UCSATP)’s total allocation of shs151 million from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF).

This funding is intended to raise awareness, organize farmer groups, and establish critical structures necessary for sustainable agricultural practices.

At a press conference in the production boardroom on March 18, Okello Dulson Samuel, Amolatar district entomologist, outlined the project’s goals.

The goals include reducing poverty and building access roads to connect farmers to larger markets. “Our mission is to empower our local farmers, enhance their productivity, and ensure they have the necessary infrastructure to thrive,” Okello stated.

He also emphasized the establishment of a district laboratory to test pests and diseases affecting crops and livestock.

The UCSATP is a critical response to climate change challenges. Okello stated that approximately 20 kilometers of roads have been identified for development, including Acii-Mucora, Corner Agoga to Agoga market, Orimai to Epyel, and the Atomoro-Anmido road.

These roads, he said, are critical to farmers’ improved market access.

UCSATP will also help small-scale irrigation farmers build dams, ensuring efficient agricultural water management.

Okello highlighted the involvement of various farmer groups, noting that there are over 50 groups engaged in orange cultivation, 30 groups focused on animal feed production; 45 for numerous fish farming initiatives and 45 beekeeping groups.

There are ten groups that raise black soldier flies, among others.

Selected farmer groups will receive vital assistance from the Ugandan government, with the World Bank covering 80% of the costs.

Furthermore, a Ministry of Agriculture team is currently working in the district, meeting with farmer groups to assess their readiness and needs.

The district entomologist has urged local leaders to support the project, emphasizing that their cooperation is critical to the farmers’ success.

As one of 69 districts in Uganda participating in the Climate Smart Agricultural Transformation Project, Amolatar is setting a standard for sustainable agricultural practices and community empowerment.