Kazo District is among the beneficiaries of the Government of Uganda’s Microscale Irrigation Program; a transformative initiative aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and enhancing climate resilience among smallholder farmers. Implemented under the Uganda Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfer Program (UgIFT), the project has significantly reshaped farming practices across the district.

According to Agricultural Engineer Tumwijukye Innocent, the program has delivered tangible benefits since its launch. “We’ve seen great progress. I continue to train farmers on how to properly use and maintain the irrigation systems in place. This is crucial for sustainability,” he said.

The program was officially introduced in Kazo during the 2022/2023 financial year, with two initial demonstration sites, one in Kanoni Sub- County focusing on coffee, and another in Kyampangara Sub- County specializing in banana farming. These sites have since evolved into vibrant centers for learning and skills development.

District Principal Agricultural Officer, Mr. John Baptist Asimwe, praised the government for empowering farmers through irrigation. “These interventions have enabled our farmers to grow more consistently, even in dry seasons,” he noted. Over the past three financial years, the district has grown to host demonstration farms and now supports 45 individual beneficiaries. However, Mr. Asimwe acknowledged the challenge of limited resources amid growing demand.

Kazo District Production Officer, Mr. Zefrine Tumwesigye, commended the commitment of farmers. “We’re committed to supporting all the farmers who have benefited so far, and we are ready to expand this support as resources allow,” she stated.

Hajji Badru Mayanja extended appreciation to the government and development partners. “Thanks to UgIFT, farmers can now procure and use micro-irrigation systems, which has revolutionized farming at the grassroots,” he remarked.

LC5 Chairperson Rev. Samuel Mugisha Katugunda encouraged responsible use of the irrigation equipment. “This program is a rare opportunity. I urge all beneficiaries to use it responsibly and make the most out of it,” he said.

The impact of the program is best captured through the voices of the farmers themselves. Rev. Geoffrey Katebarirwe, a coffee farmer in Kazo Town Council, transformed his plantation into a model farm with the help of the new irrigation system. His success has become a source of inspiration for many in his community.
Similarly, Mr. Twikirize Didas from Kanoni Sub- County turned his farm into a practical demonstration center, where other farmers regularly visit to learn modern irrigation techniques.

In Engari Sub- County, Mr. Besiga Abel and his wife, Kirabo Mebel, shared how the irrigation system dramatically improved the yield and quality of their banana plantation. “Our livelihood has improved greatly, and we are truly grateful for the support,” they said.

Mr. Mwebaze Moses, another enthusiastic beneficiary, emphasized the benefits of year-round farming enabled by irrigation. “I no longer worry about dry spells. My farm produces consistently, and I have now got a market in Juba, South Sudan,” he proudly shared.

These stories reflect the profound and lasting impact of the Microscale Irrigation Program in Kazo district. The initiative not only boosts food security and incomes but also strengthens farmers' ability to withstand the challenges of climate change, setting the stage for sustainable rural development.

Tinyefuza Naboth – Kazo District Communications officer.