The government has commenced the free distribution of 173,913 bags of fertilizer to boost agricultural yields and household earnings across Uganda.
The input program targets registered farmers cultivating high-value strategic crops, primarily coffee, tea, and cocoa.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) procured the supplies from ITRACOM Fertilizers Uganda under a Presidential Directive.
Speaking during the official rollout at MAAIF headquarters in Entebbe, Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries Hon. Frank Tumwebaze framed the initiative as a major step toward data-driven farming.
“Farmers need to apply the right input, in the right quantity and at the right time if we are to achieve higher productivity and better incomes,” Hon. Tumwebaze said.
MAAIF Permanent Secretary Maj. Gen. David Kasura-Kyomukama warned that low national fertilizer consumption—currently averaging two to three kilograms per hectare, severely limits farm yields.
Maj. Gen. Kasura-Kyomukama stressed that strict tracking protocols will govern the exercise to eliminate diversion and fraud.
All distribution bags carry bold labels marked “Government of Uganda, Not for Sale.”
“There will be no fees, no charges and no diversion. These fertilisers are a Government intervention and must reach the farmers for whom they are intended,” Maj. Gen. Kasura-Kyomukama stated.
The State Minister for Agriculture, Hon. Desire Muhooza, urged beneficiary farmers to consult local agricultural extension officers for technical guidance on proper application rates.
ITRACOM Fertilizers Uganda representative, Mr. Bigirimana, affirmed the manufacturer's commitment to supporting agronomic training and field demonstrations nationwide.
The ceremony brought together the Minister of State for Fisheries, senior ministry directors, and agricultural sector stakeholders.
