Nakaseke Farmers Empowered Through Parish Training Centres

Nakaseke District is witnessing a significant agricultural transformation thanks to the innovative Parish Training Centres (PTCs). This initiative, supported by the Parish Development Model (PDM) funds, empowers local farmers by turning their farms into practical learning hubs.

Under this program, successful farmers who employ modern agricultural techniques are identified as trainers. Their well-maintained farms then serve as demonstration sites, allowing their peers to learn and replicate advanced farming methods. This peer-to-peer learning model is proving highly effective in enhancing agricultural productivity.

Farmers like Isaac Lubega, a mixed farmer in Bukuuku Village, are sharing their expertise in coffee growing, piggery, and poultry. Lubega notes that increased access to training, supported by foundations like the Rose Namayanja Foundation and Bassajja Subbi Development Initiative, has led to more farmers visiting his farm to gain knowledge and improve their own yields.

Mary Nabowa, a resident of Lukesse Parish, confirms the positive impact, stating that improved coffee yields are a direct result of shared best practices from their four model farmer PTCs. The local government has disbursed approximately Shs380 million over the last three financial years through the PDM program to bolster these efforts.

Despite challenges like a lack of widespread sensitization, district leaders are optimistic. Nakaseke District Chairperson Ignatius Kiwanuka Koomu highlights that PTCs effectively bridge the gap between agricultural extension staff and farmers, providing access to vital knowledge. The initiative is currently being piloted in Nakaseke South Constituency, with local administrative units tasked to ensure knowledge sharing among all residents.

As part of the first phase, substantial farm inputs worth Shs160 million, including chicks, coffee seedlings, fertilizers, goats, and pigs, were distributed to PDM beneficiaries. The PDM program has so far injected Shs29 billion into Nakaseke District, fostering growth in coffee, livestock, and poultry farming. This grassroots approach is set to enhance livelihoods across the district.

Source: Daily Monitor