Government Unveils Irrigation Plan to Boost Agricultural Production

What the report says

Uganda’s Ministry of Agriculture has announced a multi-phase irrigation plan designed to raise agricultural output, improve food security and help farmers adapt to more erratic weather. The plan was presented by Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze during national World Food Day celebrations in Mbarara, according to Nile Post, and will be carried out with the Ministry of Water and Environment.

The programme is expected to focus on several areas: helping farmers who already have dams or reservoirs but need technical support to distribute water across their land, harvesting and storing water from rivers and streams for nearby farms, and reviewing existing irrigation schemes for rehabilitation or expansion. Tumwebaze said the two ministries are aligning technical and financial resources and will start with selected pilot districts before widening the rollout.

Nile Post reported that the Water and Environment Ministry will also support broader water-resource management, wetland protection and bulk water infrastructure in drought-prone areas. Agricultural extension workers are expected to help farmers use the water effectively once it reaches their land.

The government says the initiative is meant to reduce reliance on rainfall, which has become less predictable in some parts of Uganda. In general, irrigation can support more stable yields and longer growing seasons, though the article noted that the plan’s success will depend on funding, infrastructure condition and sustainable water management.