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Kwania, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The production department in Kwania district is actively promoting the adoption of small-scale irrigation systems among farmers to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change. This initiative, known as Micro-scale irrigation, is a government program aimed at supporting farmers in acquiring and utilizing individual irrigation equipment.
Through this program, farmers can procure irrigation equipment via a matching grant scheme. Under this scheme, farmers contribute 25% of the cost of solar-powered machines, with the government covering the remaining 75%. Solar-powered systems, mounted on carts, can irrigate up to 2.5 acres per day, although most farmers in Kwania typically utilize them for one-acre plots.
Currently, twenty-two farmers across the district have expressed interest in participating in this program, which is valued at Shs.333 million. Taddeo Mivulo, the Kwania District Senior Agricultural Engineer, provided insights into the functionality of the irrigation system, noting that five farmers have already fully paid for and are being connected to the system. He emphasized the importance of proper maintenance to prevent damage to the systems.
George Johnson Ojok, the District Production and Marketing Officer, highlighted the significant impact of climatic changes on production over the past six years. He underscored irrigation as the primary solution to address this challenge.
To alleviate the financial burden on farmers, Ojok encouraged them to form groups and nominate a representative to register on their behalf, facilitating easier access to the program.
Alex Ogwal Adyebo, the Kwania District Chairperson, urged farmers to embrace the initiative, emphasizing the risk of withdrawal in case of misuse. He emphasized the importance of providing extension services to support farmers in maximizing the benefits of the program.
Bosco Ogwang Abdu, a vegetable farmer who received one of the irrigation systems, expressed optimism about its potential to enhance production, particularly due to its capacity to cover a larger area compared to traditional watering methods.
Similarly, Moses Denis Ocen from Aduku sub-county welcomed the irrigation equipment, highlighting its timely arrival as he plans to scale up vegetable production using his redundant fish pond and available water resources.
As rainfall patterns continue to evolve, particularly in Northern Uganda, with the delayed onset of the first planting season, irrigation systems become increasingly vital for sustaining agricultural productivity amidst changing climatic conditions.
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