Finally! After years of waiting, Busoga farmers are receiving a much-needed boost: improved livestock breeds from the government. This initiative promises to transform livelihoods and food security in the region, but the journey hasn't been without its hurdles. Let's dive in.
The government is now actively distributing enhanced breeds of poultry, goats, pigs, and cattle to farmers in Busoga. This program aims to significantly increase livestock productivity and combat household poverty. The launch, held in Kamuli District, was spearheaded by First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga. She expressed strong disapproval regarding the delays and the alleged diversion of resources originally earmarked for Busoga.
This program, managed through the Kasolwe Government Stock Farm by the National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC&DB), was initially proposed seven years ago. Imagine the frustration of farmers waiting that long! Despite approvals and funding being in place, the project only began this year.
At the launch in Kamuli Township Primary School, a substantial 50,000 improved poultry birds were distributed to 139 farmers’ groups. These birds are specifically bred to resist diseases and produce more eggs, offering a more reliable income stream for the farmers.
But here's where it gets controversial... The initial phase also includes improved breeds of pigs, goats, bulls, and hybrid cattle, set to be distributed across Kamuli, Luuka, and Buyende districts. Specifically, the distribution includes 20 bulls, 130 pigs, and 185 goats.
During her address, Kadaga revealed that despite President Yoweri Museveni's approval to revitalize Kasolwe Stock Farm years ago, some government officials diverted livestock intended for Busoga to other regions.
"Some officials decided to make this project a national one, yet our first proposal was strictly for Busoga. They diverted the animals to other regions, especially Western Uganda," Kadaga stated. She added that she had spent seven years repeatedly reminding the President about the stalled project, blaming bureaucratic interference for the delay. "It is long overdue. I kept pushing because this is literally my project. Unfortunately, officials were using the Kamuli District Veterinary Officer to issue permits to move animals from Kasolwe Stock Farm to Western Uganda," she said.
Kasolwe Stock Farm Manager Daniel Epinyu welcomed the rollout, emphasizing that the breeds are specifically developed to thrive in local conditions. And this is the part most people miss... He also mentioned plans to expand the program to other districts and include fish farming, with the distribution of fish fingerlings in wetland areas.
Kadaga believes this program could be a game-changer for Busoga, significantly improving food security, incomes, and agricultural productivity. She has committed to ensuring the program's full implementation and sustainability. The rollout signifies a renewed government effort to revitalize Busoga’s livestock sector, equipping farmers with improved breeds to bolster livelihoods across the subregion.
What do you think? Do you believe the delays were justified, or do you share Kadaga's frustration? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
