President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni convened with a delegation of farmers from Ntungamo and Rukungiri districts on Tuesday, at State House-Entebbe.
The delegation, led by Maj. Gen. (Rtd). Jim Muhwezi, Minister of Security and Member of Parliament for Rujumbura County, and Ms. Peace Rugambwa, Chairperson of Boona Bagagawale-Nyekundire Group Limited in Ntungamo District, engaged in discussions focused on agricultural innovation.
President Museveni reiterated the importance of the four-acre model farming approach, aimed at empowering individuals with small parcels of land. This model promotes diversification, with one acre allocated to coffee cultivation, another to fruit trees, the third to staple crops for household consumption, and the fourth to pasture for livestock. Additionally, backyard space can be utilized for poultry, piggery, and fish farming in ponds, thus enhancing economic viability.
“In embracing this farming approach, we can effectively combat poverty through commercial agriculture,” President Museveni emphasized.
The President highlighted the synergy between this approach and the Parish Development Model (PDM), facilitating the transition from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture. He urged unity among National Resistance Movement (NRM) supporters to maximize the benefits of government initiatives such as PDM and Emyooga, encouraging attendees to champion these programs within their communities.
In another development, President Museveni announced the government’s decision to elevate Uganda Martyrs Technical Institute to the Engineering Faculty of Mbarara University of Science and Technology. This move aligns with the government’s commitment to promoting various science disciplines.
During the meeting, Mr. Alfred Atwiine from Ruhinda subcounty, Rukungiri District, shared a testimonial highlighting the positive impact of the Boona Bagagawale-Nyekundire Group Limited program.
Mr. Atwiine expressed gratitude for the support received in 2016, which enabled him to cultivate onions and generate significant income, subsequently improving his children’s access to education.
The gathering also welcomed Hon. Dr. Elisa Rutahigwa, Member of Parliament for Rukungiri Municipality, among its attendees.