Published on 19/10/2024
The NRM Deputy Secretary General, Rt. Hon. Namayanja Rose Nsereko, launched the Greater Luwero Transformation Programme yesterday at Nakaseke District headquarters.
This initiative is aligned with the NRM’s socio-economic transformation agenda and aims to improve the livelihoods of people in the Greater Luwero sub-region through agro-industrialisation, supporting cottage industries, and scaling up large-scale sectors to boost the region’s economic development.
During the launch, Namayanja explained that the programme is meant to uplift household incomes in Luwero, Nakaseke and Nakasongola districts, targeting specific areas that need support.
“We have taken a bold step by introducing this affirmative action program to elevate the economic status of the Greater Luwero sub-region,” Namayanja announced during the launch.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries, the government provided three tractors, 60,000 coffee seedlings, 20,000 avocado seedlings, and 5,000 kilograms of soya seeds to farmers in the region. The livestock sector is also being supported with 70,000 doses of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccine, 10,000 doses for Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), and 10,000 doses for Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) to improve livestock health and productivity.
Additionally, the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) has committed to setting up six centres to support coffee production, including mother gardens, nursery beds, and demonstration farms to equip farmers with modern techniques. This includes the introduction of irrigation systems to ensure consistent production throughout the year.
“This is not about politics; it’s about ensuring that this region receives the attention and support it deserves,” Namayanja emphasised. She explained that the NRM is spearheading this initiative in partnership with various government ministries, NGOs, the private sector, and other key stakeholders.
Namayanja noted that Greater Luwero has always been a priority for government development efforts, but more needs to be done. “It is our responsibility as leaders to ensure that this region gets what it deserves,” she said, urging farmers and district leaders to make the best use of the farming equipment provided. “We’re committed to rolling out this initiative and ensuring that it delivers. she added.
Mr. Ocan Joel Joe, representing the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries, commended the programme, describing it as a major step towards empowering rural farming communities.
“The tractors and equipment provided represent an opportunity to increase production, diversify crops, and implement modern farming techniques that will drive efficiency and higher yields,” he noted.
Luweero Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Mr. Bwabye Ntulume thanked Namayanja for initiating the programme, which is tailored to the specific needs of the three districts in the sub-region. He pledged the continued cooperation of local officials to ensure that services reach the people. “Our chief administrative officers are committed cadres who work tirelessly to ensure service delivery,” he said.
Hon. Sarah Najjuma, Woman MP for Nakaseke District, expressed her gratitude to President Museveni for remembering Greater Luwero. She highlighted the government’s ongoing work on key roads to ensure that agricultural products have easy access to markets.
“We are fortunate to have an NRM government that serves the wananchi,” Najjuma concluded.
