The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), in partnership with Mukono District Local Government, convened a stakeholders’ meeting with local agri-entrepreneurs under the Micro-Scale Irrigation Programme, reaffirming its commitment to transforming agriculture from subsistence farming into profitable agribusiness.
Addressing farmers and district leaders, the Chief Engineer from MAAIF, Eng. Bongomin Samuel Otto, assured participants that government remains fully committed to equipping farmers with modern irrigation systems to enable year-round production and increased household incomes. He revealed that 60,218 irrigation sites have so far been connected countrywide, with Mukono District contributing approximately 20 percent of that total — a performance he described as commendable.
Eng. Bongomin emphasized that irrigation remains one of the most effective tools in combating poverty, hunger, and unemployment, as it allows farmers to produce consistently even during dry seasons.
Representing the Chief Administrative Officer, Principal Assistant Secretary Kamara Daniel applauded farmers for embracing the programme and responsibly utilizing the equipment provided. He encouraged beneficiaries to maximize irrigation systems and focus on high-value crops such as fruits and coffee to increase profitability. He also urged farmers to seek technical support from extension officers whenever challenges arise.
The District Production Officer, Dr. Mukulu Fred, highlighted that Mukono was among the pioneer districts to implement irrigation SACCOs in FY 2020/2021. He noted that the district received UGX 6.401 billion and has since installed 184 irrigation sites and six demonstration farms, totaling 190 sites. Despite initial challenges such as high co-funding requirements and limited contractors, adjustments like installment payment options helped accelerate implementation.
Farmers, through their leadership, raised concerns regarding equipment durability, particularly solar panels without battery storage and pumps that break down prematurely. In response, Eng. Bongomin assured them that the ministry is addressing these issues by linking farmers to reliable suppliers and exploring improved technologies, including enhanced battery storage systems to ensure sustainability.
He stressed that irrigation should not be viewed as a donation but as an opportunity to build long-term, profitable agribusiness enterprises capable of generating employment and contributing to national economic growth.
District leaders echoed the call for proper maintenance, teamwork, and adherence to modern farming practices to ensure lasting benefits from the programme.
The stakeholder meeting was attended by District Vice Chairperson LCV Hon. Joremu Kabali Kimera, Speaker Nakasi Betty Hope, District Councilors, LCIII Chairperson of Kyampisi Sub-county Mr. Yiga Jamiru, and the district production team from agriculture, veterinary, fisheries, and entomology sections.
The engagement was spearheaded by the District Agricultural Engineering Officer, Eng. Mukulu Diana.
The Micro-Scale Irrigation Programme continues to demonstrate the power of collaboration between government and farmers in transforming livelihoods. With sustained technical support, improved technology, and responsible management, irrigation is steadily turning agriculture into a reliable and profitable enterprise for households in Mukono District. The partnership signals a clear vision: modern agriculture is not just about survival — it is about building resilient and thriving agribusinesses.
