Adjumani community donates 45 acres for state lodge, model farm

The sun hung gently over the plains of Adjumani on Tuesday as elders, leaders, and community members gathered in Pasara sub-county, united by a rare and powerful gesture, one that spoke not only of sacrifice but of hope for generations to come.

On that day, the people of Adjumani formally offered 45 acres of land for the construction of a State Lodge and a presidential demonstration farm, a decision rooted in trust, vision, and a shared desire for transformation.

Standing before the crowd, the State House agronomist Francis Edim, could not hide his admiration. He spoke with gratitude, acknowledging the weight of what the community had done.

Land, he noted, is never easy to give, especially in a region where the population continues to grow, and land remains a vital source of livelihood. Yet, the people had chosen to set aside their personal claims for the greater good.

“This is a noble cause, his voice carrying both respect and encouragement. ” What you have done will not only benefit you, but the entire Madi sub-region,” he said

The gathering was more than ceremonial. It was a moment of affirmation. Clan leaders, local government officials, and technical staff stood together, confirming that the land—measuring over 45 acres—had been freely given, with no disputes or encumbrances. The documents were ready, the boundaries known, and the commitment clear.

For many in attendance, the significance of the day went beyond the handover. Dr. Ochien Morris, representing the State House, reflected on his own journey in local government, recalling years spent in planning and production.

To him, Adjumani was not just another assignment—it was home. And seeing the unity and progress in the district filled him with optimism.

“I have been here before, and today, I see change. I believe this district can become a model for the country,” Morris noted

The planned State Lodge, he explained, would not stand alone. Where such lodges exist, a demonstration farm follows an idea that sparked excitement among the residents.

The farm would serve as a center of learning, showcasing modern agricultural practices, improved livestock breeds, and innovative techniques capable of transforming smallholder farming into a profitable enterprise.

He spoke of cows producing over 25 litres of milk, of improved crop varieties, and of agronomists ready to guide farmers from subsistence to commercial agriculture. For a community largely dependent on farming, this was more than development—it was opportunity.

Leaders, including the Resident District Commissioner, Swaib Toko, praised the community’s unity and foresight.

“In a world where land disputes are common, Adjumani had chosen a different path, one of cooperation and long-term vision. The donation, the land you have donated, must remain a symbol of collective progress, free from future conflict or misunderstanding,” Toko emphasised

As the meeting drew to a close, there was a shared understanding that this was only the beginning. Surveyors, lawyers, and planners would soon finalize the process, paving the way for construction and implementation. Follow-up meetings were promised to ensure transparency and continued engagement with the community.

For the people of Adjumani, the 45 acres represented more than land; it was an investment in their future. A place where leaders would gather, where knowledge would be shared, and where prosperity could take root.

The land in question lies in Robidire village, within Alere Parish in Pachara sub-county, a quiet but promising corner of Adjumani district that is now set to play a central role in the region’s transformation.

Speaking on behalf of the landowners, Sisto Amoko explained that the decision to offer the land was not made lightly. It followed a series of consultations involving clan members, local leaders, and technical officials from the district local government, ensuring that every voice was heard and every concern addressed.

“We have given out this land in good faith, all the relevant stakeholders have been involved, and there is full agreement on the terms that we signed in 2019 between the Adjumani district local government,” Amoko said

Officials from the State House confirmed that the necessary documentation had already been prepared and signed, and would be forwarded to President Yoweri Museveni for formal approval of the proposed developments.

This step, they noted, would pave the way for the official commencement of the State Lodge and demonstration farm.

The inspection and verification process brought together a team of technical experts, including Principal Legal Officer Emmanuel Iluker, Senior Agriculture Officer Roseline Acen, and agronomist Francis Edimu.

Their presence underscored the seriousness of the undertaking and the commitment to ensuring that all procedures were properly followed.

At the local level, leaders expressed confidence in the integrity of the land offer. Kennedy Kanzo, the LCIII chairperson of Pachara sub-county, assured the gathering that the land was free from any disputes or encumbrances and had the full backing of the community.

Adding to the significance of the moment, Woman Member of Parliament Jessica Ababiku revealed that she had already communicated with the President, informing him that land had been secured for the project.

She described the development as a major milestone for the wider Ma’di sub-region, one that would open doors to new opportunities.

She also pointed to ongoing initiatives such as the Presidential Skilling Hub in Olia village, Pakele sub-county, which is already equipping young people with practical vocational skills, an indication that the region is steadily positioning itself for growth and self-reliance.

Together, these efforts painted a picture of a community not only giving, but also preparing to receive the fruits of its vision.