The Chief Justice of Uganda, His Lordship Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo, has called on the Acholi community to shift their focus towards the cultivation of perennial crops as a strategic move to promote long-term agricultural productivity and economic empowerment in northern Uganda.
Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo who has planted over 1000 banana suckers in his land in Patongo town council in Agago district, emphasized the importance of investing in sustainable farming practices that go beyond subsistence.
He noted that perennial crops such as coffee, bananas, tea, fruit trees, and cocoa can transform rural livelihoods by generating consistent income, improving food security, and restoring degraded land.
“Let us not limit ourselves to seasonal crops alone. We need to think long-term. Perennial crops offer an opportunity for our people to build wealth, conserve the environment, and ensure food availability even in times of climate unpredictability,” he said.
The Chief Justice, who hails from the region, expressed concern over the persistent poverty levels in northern Uganda despite vast land resources.
He challenged local leaders and agricultural officers to support farmers with information, seedlings, and market linkages that would make perennial farming viable and profitable.
He also encouraged youth and women to take advantage of government programs like the Parish Development Model and Operation Wealth Creation, which offer support for agro-enterprise development.
Community members and local leaders welcomed the message, saying the call comes at a time when many households are looking for alternatives to overcome economic hardship.
“This message is timely. If we plant once and harvest for years, our lives will surely change,” said Rose Auma, a farmer from Agago District. We can earn every year without having to dig all the time. I’m ready to begin if I can get seedlings.”
The Chief Justice concluded by urging policymakers to prioritize extension services, climate-smart agriculture, and farmer education to ensure the success of such initiatives.
The message resonated deeply with many members of the community, who welcomed the call and shared their thoughts:
Okot John Bosco, a youth from Patongo sub-county, Agago: “As youth, we need long-term solutions. Many of us don’t want to rely on boda bodas forever. Perennial crops can give us land-based jobs with real returns.”
Grace Lamwaka, a teacher in Agago West County “We need training and sensitization. Some of us don’t even know how to care for perennial crops. But if we’re guided, this can change our lives.”
Albino Opio, a local council leader in Patong sub-county: “The Chief Justice has spoken wisely. As leaders, we must now ensure that information and inputs reach the grassroots.
Nancy Akello, a women’s group leader in Kotomor Sub County: “Women are ready to lead this transformation. We only need access to land, credit, and markets. Perennial crops can help us feed our children and educate them.”
Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo also appealed to government agencies and NGOs to support the rollout of perennial crop programs in the region, especially targeting youth and women.
He stressed that such investments align with national goals under the Parish Development Model and Operation Wealth Creation.
He concluded by urging extension workers to work closely with farmers to ensure adoption of best practices and help Acholi become a hub for sustainable agro-industrialization.
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