agriculture 29 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Rukiga Leaders Demand Revival of Dormant Solar Irrigation Project
Local leaders in Rukiga District are calling for the reactivation of the Kyerero solar irrigation scheme, which has been idle since its inception. The project, intended to benefit numerous farmers, is seen as crucial for modernizing agriculture and adapting to climate change. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/rukiga-leaders-demand-revamp-of-idle-solar-irrigation-project-5513170
A chorus of voices from Rukiga District is rising, demanding the urgent rehabilitation of the Kyerero solar irrigation scheme. This vital project, donated in November 2016 by President Museveni to a model farmer, Charles Kwehangana Rutaro, has reportedly fallen into disuse after Mr. Rutaro relocated.
Originally envisioned to support approximately 100 farmers in Kyerero Parish, the scheme’s potential has remained largely untapped. Local officials lament that the project collapsed before reaching several intended villages, leaving many farmers unable to benefit from modern irrigation techniques.
“It’s our appeal that the government considers the rehabilitation of this irrigation scheme as a way of facilitating modern farming practices,” stated Mr. Richard Biryomumisho, the LC1 chairman for Nyamihanga Cell. He believes a revived scheme would significantly boost agricultural output in an area known for coffee, tea, onions, beans, Irish potatoes, and bananas.
Mr. Jack Tugume, the LCIII chairman for Bukinda Sub County, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that a functional irrigation system would empower farmers participating in the Parish Development Model. He highlighted the fertile soils of Bukinda and projected that a robust irrigation scheme could establish the sub-county as a major supplier of onions and climbing beans throughout the Ankole and Kigezi regions. Mr. Tugume also pointed to the increasing unpredictability of rainfall due to climate change, underscoring the necessity of irrigation technologies.
Responding to these concerns, Rukiga Resident District Commissioner Zadok Kamusiime assured that plans for the solar-powered scheme’s rehabilitation are in motion and pledged to investigate the progress with the relevant authorities.
In a related development within the Kigezi Sub-region, farmers have urged the government to expedite the establishment of micro-irrigation schemes and reconsider stringent access conditions, such as the 25 percent co-funding and 2.5-acre land requirement, which they argue exclude many potential beneficiaries.
This solar irrigation scheme was designed to benefit approximately 100 farmers in Kyerero Parish, a target that was not achieved.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)