Government’s Commitment to Agro-Industrialisation: Permanent Secretary Ben Kumumanya and NAADS ED Dr. Samuel Mugasi Assess Agri-LED Progress in Rwenzori Sub-region

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government, Ben Kumumanya, accompanied by the Executive Director of the National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS), Dr. Samuel Mugasi, visited the Rwenzori Sub-region to assess the progress of initiatives under the Government-funded Agro-Industrialisation for Local Economic Development (Agri-LED) programme.

Permanent Secretary ,Ministry of Local Government, Ben Kumumanya (in black suit), and ED meeting district technocrats

The Agri-LED programme, a cornerstone of Uganda’s strategy for economic transformation, is designed to enhance productivity, agro-processing, and value addition in local communities. It is currently being implemented across 11 local governments in the Rwenzori Sub-region, including Kyegegwa, Kyenjojo, Kamwenge, Kabarole, Fort Portal City, Bunyangabu, Bundibugyo, Ntoroko, Kasese District Local Government, Kasese Municipal Council, and Kitagwenda.

*Supporting Production, Processing, and Value Addition*

Key initiatives under the Agri-LED programme are aimed at boosting agricultural production and promoting industrialisation at the grassroots level. These include:

Coffee Hullers – To improve post-harvest handling and quality of coffee, the country’s leading export.

Milk Coolers – To support dairy farmers in maintaining milk quality and reducing post-harvest losses.

Maize Mills – To enable efficient processing and value addition to maize, a staple food crop.

Bulking Stores – To facilitate the storage and collective marketing of agricultural produce, ensuring better prices for farmers.

Cattle Holding Grounds and Loading Bays – To enhance livestock management and marketing in the sub-region.

Fish Cages – To promote aquaculture and boost fish production for both domestic consumption and export.

Tractors – To mechanise farming, improve efficiency, and expand arable land.

Rural Agricultural Markets – To create structured markets for farmers to sell their produce directly to buyers.

During the tour, the PS, Ben Kumumanya and Dr. Mugasi inspected various facilities and projects, engaging with local leaders, farmers, and other stakeholders.

They lauded the progress achieved so far, highlighting the potential of these initiatives to transform the livelihoods of the residents.

The officials noted the impact of fish cages and coffee hullers on boosting the incomes of local communities. Also, the focus on cocoa production and processing was commended as a model for value addition in the region. Meanwhile, emphasis was placed on the role of milk coolers and maize mills in strengthening the dairy and crop subsectors.

The officials acknowledged challenges such as limited funding, delayed project implementation, and inadequate technical skills among farmers. They pledged continued support and urged local governments to fast-track project implementation to ensure timely benefits for the community.

*The Role of Agri-LED in Local Economic Development*

Agri-LED is part of the Government of Uganda’s broader vision to achieve sustainable development through agro-industrialisation. By promoting local economic development, the programme seeks to empower communities to generate wealth, create jobs, and reduce poverty.

Kumumanya emphasised the Government’s commitment to decentralising economic opportunities through local governments. He called on stakeholders to embrace a collaborative approach to ensure the sustainability of the programme.

Dr. Mugasi highlighted NAADS’ role in providing technical and financial support for implementing these initiatives. He encouraged farmers to adopt modern agricultural practices and leverage the provided infrastructure to increase productivity and incomes.

The Agri-LED programme in the Rwenzori Sub-region is a testament to the Government’s resolve to empower local communities through agriculture and industrialisation. By addressing challenges and scaling up successful interventions, the programme has the potential to unlock the region’s economic potential and serve as a model for other parts of Uganda.

The visit by PS Ben Kumumanya and Dr. Samuel Mugasi underscores the importance of continuous monitoring and evaluation to ensure that Government initiatives deliver tangible benefits to the people they are meant to serve.