Kagadi Farmers Excel in World Bank Agroforestry Project

Farmers in Kagadi District are reaping substantial benefits from the Investing in Forests and Protected Areas for Climate-Smart Development (IFPA-CD) Mixed Agroforestry Systems (MAS) Project, a World Bank initiative aimed at combating environmental degradation and boosting food security.

The two-year project, implemented by the Ministry of Water and Environment through a partnership including Catholic Relief Services (CRS), NIRAS International Consulting Uganda, and ECOTRUST, focused on integrating trees with crops and livestock on household farms.

In a recognition event for the project’s close-out activities, over 20 model farmers from Kagadi were awarded two goats each. These farmers were lauded for their commitment to agroforestry and environmental conservation, receiving thousands of tree seedlings of species like albizia, Prunus africana, grevillea, terminalia, maesopsis, and mahogany.

Christopher Byamukama, the IFPA-CD MAS Project Officer in Kagadi, noted that the selected tree species demonstrated high survival rates and compatibility with local agroforestry systems, with farmers also having a say in their choices.

Kagadi District LCV Chairperson Tumusiime Elly praised the farmers for adopting sustainable practices, highlighting agroforestry’s potential to improve soil fertility, restore rainfall patterns, and enhance incomes, with the gifted goats serving as an investment for future livelihood resilience.

The project successfully engaged 7,180 households in Kagadi, exceeding its target, and restored trees on 1,420 hectares, contributing significantly to increased tree cover and watershed protection.

Utilizing a “Farmers’ Voice Radio” approach via Kibale Kagadi Community Radio (KKCR 91.7 FM), the project facilitated direct farmer engagement with experts and information sharing in local languages. Beneficiary Tom Kizza shared how the project transformed his understanding of sustainable farming, leading to improved coffee production through shade tree integration.

Kagadi District Forest Officer Abigaba Patrick added that the initiative has been crucial in restoring degraded forest landscapes, with over 60% of the district’s forest reserves previously damaged, while simultaneously creating alternative income streams and raising environmental awareness.

The project’s success in Kagadi and other districts underscores the effectiveness of climate-smart agriculture and agroforestry in addressing environmental challenges and improving rural livelihoods. https://nilepost.co.ug/news/351064/kagadi-farmers-reap-benefits-as-world-bank-funded-agroforestry-project-exceeds-targets