Minister Mugasa Urges Bunyoro Region to Embrace Commercial Agriculture and Value Addition

State Minister for Bunyoro Affairs, Mary Grace Mugasa, has called upon leaders, farmers, and stakeholders in Hoima District and the broader Bunyoro sub-region to prioritize commercial agriculture. Speaking at the Hoima District Budget Conference, she emphasized that while Bunyoro is endowed with rich oil and gas resources, communities must move beyond subsistence farming to fully capitalize on emerging market opportunities and contribute to Uganda’s ambitious tenfold economic growth target.

To achieve this transformation, Minister Mugasa stressed the importance of agricultural extension workers actively engaging with farmers on the ground. She noted that providing better agronomic practices, quality inputs, and improved post-harvest management skills is essential for boosting farm productivity and meeting rigorous market standards. Furthermore, she revealed that the Bunyoro Affairs docket is actively lobbying for approximately Shs500 billion to bolster the Bunyoro Development Plan, aimed at lifting local households out of poverty.

Local leaders at the conference also detailed strategic investments designed to uplift service delivery and infrastructure. Hoima District outlined allocations including Shs358 million for agricultural extension staffing and equipment, alongside funds dedicated to road maintenance and tourism development. The district has notably improved its administrative performance, rising in the Local Government Management of Service Delivery rankings.

Meanwhile, representatives from the Uganda National Oil Company highlighted the expanding economic landscape driven by regional petroleum projects, such as the Kabalega Industrial Park in Kabaale Sub-county. However, local leaders cautioned that challenges such as land conflicts and infrastructure gaps in underserved areas like the Lake Albert shores must be systematically addressed to secure inclusive development.

For more details, read the original report on Nile Post.