GULU, May 12, 2025 – Mercy Corps, an international nongovernmental oragnisation, in partnership with the Northern Uganda Tractor Operators and Farmers Association [NUTOFA], is targeting over 3,000 farmers in the Acholi Sub-region as part of efforts to combat climate change through improved irrigation.
Northern Uganda has recently experienced prolonged droughts, severely impacting local farmers. Through the Pump Up project, Mercy Corps in collaboration with Tulima Solar Uganda, aims to support farmers by providing accessible agricultural loans for the purchase of solar-powered irrigation systems.
Robert Achah Okok, Chairperson of NUTOFA, explained that under the project, interested farmers can make an initial deposit of Shs 200,000 towards the purchase of a solar water pump, which costs Shs 1.8 million in total. The remaining balance is then paid over a one-year period, with monthly instalments of Shs 165,400.
Okok noted that many association members have previously struggled to afford such equipment due to high upfront costs.
He emphasised that this initiative will significantly boost agricultural productivity in the region, reducing farmers’ reliance on unpredictable rainfall.
Denis Ocira, a member of the association, said the high cost of agricultural inputs from local dealers and the lack of flexible payment options have been major barriers.
He expressed optimism that acquiring a solar pump by the end of the year would enable him to engage more effectively in off-season farming, increasing both yield and income.
So far, 40 farmers have enrolled in the Pump Up project and are currently undergoing assessments before receiving the solar water pumps.
https://thecooperator.news/local-communities-in-serere-receive-new-irrigation-scheme/
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