Tororo: The Government of Uganda, in collaboration with the Ministry of Water and Environment, initiated a stakeholder’s engagement and site handover meeting on Tuesday to mark the commencement of the Gule solar-powered water irrigation system in Tororo. The project, valued at shs.716m, will be implemented by Nexus Green Limited.
Rogers Masaba, Assistant Manager at the Water for Production Regional Center East within the Ministry of Water and Environment, emphasized the importance of monitoring and supervision by district leaders to ensure the successful execution of the project. The ministry has plans to construct 687 water irrigation sites nationwide, and Tororo district is set to benefit from two irrigation sites this fiscal year: Gule and Amagoro irrigation sites.
These projects have a common objective of improving the economic status, income security, and nutritional levels of communities by enhancing food security throughout Uganda. John Okea, the Chairperson of Tororo district, urged the local residents to embrace the program and extend their support to the contractor during the construction phase.
Albert Amula, the Tororo Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC), reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting farmers through irrigation projects. He highlighted the ongoing climate change challenges and their adverse effects on agricultural production in Uganda. The RDC expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Water and Environment for initiating the irrigation project, as it is expected to significantly increase agricultural output and transform the local community from subsistence farming to a money-generating sector.
Given that many locals are part of the government’s Parish Development Model (PDM), the irrigation project will provide them with opportunities to engage in various beneficial enterprises. The RDC emphasized the importance of ensuring value for money throughout the construction process and encouraged the contractor to employ local individuals based on their relevant skills.
By launching the Gule Irrigation Scheme, the government aims to promote agricultural productivity, mitigate the impact of climate change, and uplift the livelihoods of the people in Tororo district. The project signifies a significant step towards sustainable agricultural development and economic growth in the region.
