Amolatar Farmers Receive 15 Tonnes of Certified Seed as Government Ramps Up Agricultural Support

LCC TV NEWS

AMOLATAR, UGANDA– In a significant move to bolster agricultural productivity and combat food insecurity, the Ugandan government, through the Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) program, has commenced the distribution of 15 tonnes of certified maize and soybean seed to farmers in Amolatar District.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, aims to increase crop yields, enhance household incomes, and transition local farmers towards commercial agriculture. The official launch of the distribution exercise took place earlier this week, marking a critical intervention at the onset of the planting season.

Grace Apok, the Regional Coordinator for Equatorial Seed, confirmed that the district has received a consignment of 10 tonnes of certified maize seed and 5 tonnes of high-quality soybean seed. "These seeds are intended to strengthen food security and support farmers to engage in commercial agriculture," Ms. Apok stated during the launch, emphasizing the government's commitment to transforming the agricultural sector.

To ensure the integrity of the distribution, OWC Amolatar District Coordinator, Rtd. Col. Simba, issued a stern directive to district agricultural leaders. He demanded that the inputs reach registered beneficiaries without delay or diversion, underscoring the necessity of transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain.

The logistical framework for the distribution is supported by a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Operation Wealth Creation and Equatorial Seed. Francis Ojok, the Amolatar District Production Officer, explained that the MoU guarantees the supply of quality seed to registered farmer groups. "The programme will also benefit members of cooperative unions to expand agricultural production," Mr. Ojok added.

Local political leaders lauded the timing of the intervention. Amolatar District LC5 Councillor Okao Kizito praised the government for delivering the inputs at the start of the planting season, noting that the support will catalyze agribusiness and improve the economic standing of residents.

The sentiment was echoed by farmer Awio Mike, who welcomed the initiative and urged his fellow beneficiaries to utilize the seeds responsibly. "We must plant these seeds to maximize production," he advised, cautioning against the temptation to sell the inputs for short-term cash.

Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Sarah Tyan commended the government's continued support for the agricultural sector. She called on the district production department to intensify farmer training across all sub-counties to ensure that beneficiaries adopt proper agronomic practices. "Beneficiaries must use the seeds for their intended purpose. I caution them against diverting or selling these inputs, as this program is designed to uplift our communities," RDC Tyan warned.