State Minister for Northern Uganda, Kenneth Omona, has emphasized the critical importance of establishing a designated cash crop to boost incomes and propel the agricultural sector forward in the region. Speaking at the first regional plenary session held in Gulu City on August 28, Omona highlighted the challenges facing farmers and the need for a more modern, mechanized approach to agriculture.
Omona pointed out that many local farmers still rely on traditional tools such as hand-hoes and ox-plows to cultivate their land, which is insufficient for meeting the growing economic demands of crop production. He stressed that mechanization is essential to improving crop yields and increasing overall productivity. He further noted the underutilization of Northern Uganda’s vast agricultural land, particularly the over 20,000 square kilometers in the Acholi sub-region, which has the potential to support large-scale livestock breeding if properly harnessed. Subsidized costs for livestock breeding would also be a key initiative to support local farmers.
In his presentation, Omona also addressed the lack of extension services in many sub-counties across Northern Uganda, which have left farmers without access to essential agricultural support and resources. He called for immediate efforts to expand these services and reach the most remote communities.
Linda Auma, the committee chairperson, echoed Omona’s concerns, stating that the government must step up efforts to create both public and private water sources for agricultural production. She highlighted the significance of rehabilitating existing water infrastructure while also developing new water sources to ensure sustainable agricultural growth, especially in the face of climate change. “Water availability is key to enhancing agricultural production,” Auma stated. “Rehabilitating the existing water sources and creating more is vital in promoting usage of water for agricultural production.”
During the plenary session, Speaker Anita Among emphasized the need for a comprehensive report on the agricultural sector in Northern Uganda, urging the committee to conduct thorough consultations. Among encouraged the committee to examine both primary and secondary aspects of agricultural production across the region, taking into account the specific needs of different areas.
She further underscored the importance of addressing post-harvest handling and adding value to agricultural products as a means of improving the sector. Among suggested that a detailed assessment of the number of tractors required per region, as well as an analysis of crop suitability for each area, would help guide investments in mechanization and crop production.
This workshop represents a renewed focus on Northern Uganda’s agricultural potential, aiming to modernize farming practices, enhance water access, and promote both crop and livestock production as key drivers of economic growth in the region.