Hundreds of farmers in Bamunanika Constituency are smiling after receiving free hoes from the government in a move aimed at boosting food production and fighting household poverty.
The distribution exercise was officially launched by State Minister for Higher Education, Dr. J.C. Muyingo, at Bamunanika Sub-county headquarters in Kanseka, with beneficiaries drawn from all the 42 parishes in the constituency.
Among the excited recipients was 76-year-old widow,Rebecca Nakato who could not hide her joy after receiving a brand-new hoe.
“My old hoe was completely worn out and had become a big challenge,now I am ready to return to my garden and prepare for the next planting season, “she said
For many rural households, a hoe is more than just a farming tool, it is a weapon against hunger and poverty. It enables families to cultivate their land, increase food production, improve food security and earn a living.
Bamunanika’s Agricultural Officer Sserunjoji Sam Kityo revealed that 6,000 hoes were distributed free of charge during the first phase of the programme.
“The success of the first phase encouraged local leaders to lobby government for additional hoes so that more households can benefit,” he explained.
Kityo concluded by expressing confidence that the farming tools would boost agricultural productivity and improve livelihoods. He also challenged beneficiaries to make proper use of the hoes.
“If farmers use these tools effectively, next time we shall be lobbying government for more advanced equipment such as irrigation machines instead of hoes. “
Representing Dr. Muyingo, Mr. Wasswa Abdulkarim Tamale urged residents to embrace government programmes and use the hoes to improve their economic well-being.
He delivered the minister’s message saying: “This support is meant to empower families to increase food production, fight hunger and create sustainable sources of income. We encourage all beneficiaries to put the hoes to productive use and embrace government programmes aimed at wealth creation.”
Meanwhile, Bamunanika Police officer Sarah Achan praised Dr. Muyingo for supporting security operations in the area. She credited him for facilitating the repair of three police motorcycles and providing fuel to help officers carry out their duties.
Local Council I chairpersons also applauded the NRM government and President Yoweri Museveni for rolling out poverty-alleviation initiatives such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, and agricultural support programmes thus helping many families improve their standards of living and creating opportunities for wealth creation in rural communities.
With thousands of hoes already distributed and more expected, residents hope the initiative will translate into bigger harvests, increased incomes and a stronger fight against poverty across Bamunanika.
