President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on farmers in Isingiro District to embrace irrigation to boost agricultural productivity and improve their livelihoods. Speaking at a thanksgiving ceremony for Bright Rwamirama Kanyontore, the Minister of State for Animal Industry, the President highlighted the transformative potential of irrigation and modern farming practices.
Citing examples, President Museveni said Dr. Florence Muranga of Bushenyi harvests 53 tonnes of bananas per acre annually using irrigation, compared to the district's average of just 5 tonnes per acre. “In Brazil, they get 80 tonnes of bananas per acre due to good farming practices,” he noted.
The event, held at St. Paul Masha Church of Uganda in Isingiro District, also provided a platform for the President to caution against wetland encroachment. He emphasized the importance of preserving wetlands as a critical water source for irrigation and sustainable agriculture.
President Museveni encouraged farmers to adopt the four-acre farming model introduced in the 1996 NRM Manifesto. “In one acre, grow coffee; in the second, grow fruits; in the third, grow pasture for dairy; and in the fourth, grow food crops. Use the backyard for poultry and piggery. For those near swamps, consider fish farming in ponds,” he explained.
He advised large-scale landowners to grow crops like maize and cotton, while urging families to avoid land fragmentation by consolidating assets under family companies for better management.
President Museveni commended Rwamirama for uniting Isingiro and advancing development in the district. “I thank the people of Isingiro for their unity. By voting NRM by 94 percent, it shows you are united,” he said.
The President also pledged government support for Isingiro, including land allocation for an industrial park and upgrading a Health Centre IV to a district hospital. He donated Shs40 million to support church activities at the event.
Hon. Rwamirama expressed gratitude to God for his family’s achievements and thanked President Museveni for his support. “We thank the President and his family for the support they have given to us and the people of Isingiro,” he said.
The LCV Chairperson of Isingiro District, Aaron Turahi, reaffirmed the district’s support for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and pledged overwhelming votes for the party in the 2026 general elections.
The ceremony was attended by ministers, Members of Parliament, and other dignitaries.
