3,000 farmers to benefit from Shs 15bln irrigation project in Pakwach

PAKWACH –Pakwach district has registered about 3,000 farmers as beneficiaries of the pilot phase of Wadelai irrigation scheme established to boost commercial agriculture in the district.

The Shs15 billion irrigation scheme in Wadelai Sub-county was initiated in 2018 as a hybrid project to promote sustainable agriculture and increased food production in the district.

According to leaders, the irrigation scheme will cover 21 villages and is expected to improve the livelihoods of the communities practicing horticulture and other farming activities.

Robert Omito Steen, the Pakwach district LCV chairman says delivery of pipes for water distribution is ongoing while government has secured demonstration plots for the project.

Meanwhile, the Pakwach district Woman Member of Parliament, Jane Avur Pacuto has advised farmers to embrace the project for the continuous production of crops such as rice, tomatoes, and onions, saying the farmers will be able to boost their household income.

“We have abundant water for irrigation which means farmers can engage in farming activities all year without having to wait for the rains,” Avur said.

One of the farmers, Emmanuel Oryema says, the irrigation project will boost both animal and crop production in the area.

Another farmer from Mutir, Ali Oneka-lith says the establishment of the irrigation scheme has increased the demand for land in the area and is optimistic that the project will change the livelihoods of the communities.

“We are targeting to improve our livelihoods by venturing into fast-maturing crops like onions, rice, and maize and forming a farmers’ cooperative,” Oneka-lith said.

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