KOLE DISTRICT, UGANDA: More than 20,000 farmers in Kole South have received maize seeds in a major agricultural intervention led by Northern Youth MP and Kole South MP-elect Boniface Okot, aimed at boosting productivity and restoring household incomes.
The distribution, held Thursday at Akalo Sub-county headquarters, attracted thousands of farmers seeking reliable inputs after seasons marked by poor yields and widespread use of uncertified seeds.
Okot positioned the initiative as a critical step in reviving agriculture and strengthening livelihoods in the constituency.
“Our farmers have waited too long for meaningful support. This intervention is about restoring dignity to the farmer and ensuring that no household in Kole South goes hungry because they lacked access to quality seeds,” he said.
“We are not just distributing maize seeds—we are planting opportunity, resilience, and economic independence in our communities.”
He noted that the programme targets households struggling with high input costs and declining productivity.
“The cost of certified seeds has been beyond the reach of many families. That is why we are stepping in to close that gap and ensure every farmer has the tools to succeed,” Okot added.
The MP-elect pledged to expand the initiative into long-term agricultural support, including farmer training, improved extension services, storage facilities, and better market access. “This is only the first phase. We are working on long-term solutions so that farming becomes profitable again.”
The intervention was welcomed by Emmanuel Ngura, Chairperson of the Kole District Farmers’ Association, who described it as both timely and transformative.
“For years, farmers in Kole have struggled with fake seeds and low yields. This support is not just welcome—it is critical. When you give a farmer quality seed, you guarantee productivity,” Ngura said.
He urged beneficiaries to maximise the opportunity through proper agronomic practices to ensure improved harvests.
Across the distribution grounds, farmers expressed relief and renewed hope after years of uncertainty.
Sarah Acan, a farmer from Aboke village, said the seeds could transform her family’s fortunes. “Last season was very difficult. The seeds I used did not germinate well, and I harvested almost nothing. With these improved seeds, I am confident I will get a better yield,” she said.
Ocan Peter said the support had eased the financial burden many farmers face. “We have been forced to buy whatever seeds we find because we cannot afford certified ones. Now I can prepare my garden without worrying about quality,” he noted.
Akello Janet, a mother of five, said a good harvest would enable her to meet basic needs. “If the harvest is good, I will be able to pay school fees and take care of my children. We depend entirely on farming, so this support means everything.”
Youth farmer Odong Michael said the initiative could re-ignite interest in agriculture among young people. “Many youth had lost hope in farming because of losses, but this support encourages us to return and take it seriously. I now see farming as a business again.”
Other beneficiaries said sustained interventions could significantly reduce hunger and improve living standards across the region.
As the planting season approaches, the programme has injected fresh optimism among farmers preparing their gardens for what they hope will be a more productive season.
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