Farmers in Kazo District are witnessing a transformation in agriculture, thanks to the Government of Uganda’s Microscale Irrigation Program. Implemented under the Uganda Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfer Program (UgIFT), the initiative has improved productivity, enhanced climate resilience, and reshaped farming practices across the district.
Launched during the 2022/2023 financial year, the program began with two demonstration sites—one in Kanoni Sub-County for coffee and another in Kyampangara Sub-County for banana farming. These have since evolved into practical hubs for skills training and innovation in irrigation.
Agricultural Engineer Tumwijukye Innocent said the initiative is already bearing fruit. “We’ve seen great progress. I continue to train farmers on how to properly use and maintain the irrigation systems. This is crucial for sustainability,” he noted.
District Principal Agricultural Officer John Baptist Asimwe praised the program for empowering farmers to grow crops consistently, regardless of seasonal changes. “These interventions have enabled our farmers to produce even during dry seasons,” he said. Over three years, the program has expanded to support 45 individual farmers across the district.
Despite this growth, demand is high. “We have more farmers expressing interest, but our resources are still limited,” Asimwe added.
District Production Officer Zefrine Tumwesigye expressed confidence in the future of the initiative. “We’re committed to supporting all the farmers who have benefited so far and are ready to expand this support as resources allow,” she said.
Hajji Badru Mayanja, a key stakeholder in the district’s agricultural development, lauded the impact of UgIFT. “Thanks to UgIFT, farmers can now procure and use micro-irrigation systems, which has revolutionized farming at the grassroots,” he stated.
LC5 Chairperson Rev. Samuel Mugisha Katugunda urged farmers to use the systems responsibly. “This program is a rare opportunity. I encourage all beneficiaries to make the most of it,” he said.
Several farmers shared personal stories of transformation:
Rev. Geoffrey Katebarirwe, a coffee farmer in Kazo Town Council, turned his plantation into a model farm. His success has become a learning example in the community.
Twikirize Didas in Kanoni Sub-County established a demonstration farm where fellow farmers regularly visit to learn modern irrigation techniques.
In Engari Sub-County, Besiga Abel and Kirabo Mebel reported a dramatic improvement in banana yields. “Our livelihood has improved greatly, and we are truly grateful for the support,” they said.
Mwebaze Moses, another beneficiary, now farms year-round and supplies produce to Juba, South Sudan. “I no longer worry about dry spells. My farm produces consistently,” he said proudly.
The Microscale Irrigation Program is not just an agricultural success—it is a step toward food security, increased household incomes, and climate-smart farming.
