Lamwo district leaders are intensifying efforts to reposition the local economy through a private sector-led development approach, with a strong focus on improving market access for farmers and strengthening enterprise support systems.
Odur Justine Peace, the secretary Production, Marketing and National resources, Lamwo district local government presented a report calling for the establishment of a comprehensive private sector and tourism development programme.
The initiative is aimed at stimulating economic growth by enhancing trade, promoting industrial development, and empowering small-scale entrepreneurs across the district.
Joyce Oyella, LC5 councillor for Palabek Gem and Abera sub-counties and chairperson of the committee for Production, Marketing and National Resources,emphasised that Lamwo’s economic potential remains largely untapped due to structural and market-related challenges.
“We need a deliberate program that strengthens trade development, supports cooperatives, and builds the capacity of our local enterprises to compete effectively,” Oyella said.
The proposed program prioritizes improving market linkages, expanding enterprise development services, and supporting cooperative structures to enhance productivity and profitability among farmers and small businesses.
However, the committee noted that progress is currently hindered by low purchasing power for agricultural commodities, limited access to reliable markets, and the growing impact of climate change on production.
In a related report from the production and marketing department, limited market access emerged as one of the most pressing challenges facing farmers in Lamwo.
The findings highlight how fluctuating prices and unpredictable weather patterns continue to affect yields and household incomes.
To address these concerns, the committee recommended intensified efforts to secure better markets for local produce and encouraged farmers to adopt bulk selling practices to strengthen their bargaining power.
District leaders also stressed the importance of mindset change within communities, urging farmers and entrepreneurs to embrace productivity-driven approaches and long-term planning.
Adding her voice, Lamwo district founcillor for Palabek, Achan Jackline pointed to the critical role of infrastructure in supporting economic activity, particularly in rural areas.
“Road maintenance must be prioritized to ensure farmers can transport their produce to markets efficiently,” she said, noting that poor road networks often lead to post-harvest losses and reduced profits.
The council further proposed capacity-building initiatives targeting Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) and SACCO leaders to improve financial management and sustainability at the grassroots level.
Strengthening these community-based financial institutions is seen as key to expanding access to credit and supporting business growth.
Meanwhile, concerns were raised over the expired tenure of Emyooga SACCO board members, with leaders urging the timely reconstitution of governance structures to ensure continuity and accountability in the program.
The discussions form part of broader efforts by Lamwo District to align local development priorities with national strategies aimed at poverty reduction and economic transformation.
Leaders believe that by strengthening the private sector and addressing bottlenecks in agricultural marketing, the district can unlock new opportunities for growth.
As the council prepares for further deliberations on the proposed program, there is growing consensus that a coordinated approach combining infrastructure development, market access, and enterprise support will be essential in transforming agriculture into a sustainable economic driver.
For many residents, the success of these initiatives will depend not only on policy direction but also on effective implementation and consistent support at the community level.
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