Omukungu Edward Kagwa Ndagala training the Kabaka’s subjects on agriculture and livestock practices
Kabaka Foundation has conducted a training session for farmers and livestock keepers in Ssaabagabo Nsangi and Ssaabawaali Kasanje, aimed at promoting modern agricultural practices.
The training focused on changing people’s perception of farming, encouraging them to see it as a viable profession rather than a last resort or punishment. The initiative follows a partnership between Kabaka Foundation and Heifer International to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability.
The event gathered local farmers at the Ssaabawaali Kasanje sub-county headquarters, where they discussed ways to enhance their livelihoods through modern farming techniques.
Minister urges farmers to embrace agriculture
Hajji Amisi Kakomo, Buganda’s Minister for Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Fisheries, and Cooperatives, led the training and urged people to shift their mindset about farming. He emphasized that many individuals, including professionals in various fields, have gained wealth through agriculture.
"Farming should not be seen as an option for failures. Many successful individuals have built wealth through agriculture," Minister Kakomo stated.
People are paying attention to the trainers as they learn about modern farming and livestock rearing
He encouraged farmers to use their earnings from farming to educate their children, access healthcare, and invest in cooperatives to support the 'Dreem Project.' He also emphasized the importance of knowledge sharing among farmers to improve their skills and agricultural output.
Kabaka Foundation’s commitment to agricultural development
Edward Kaggwa Ndagala, CEO of Kabaka Foundation, reiterated Kabaka’s commitment to promoting agriculture, livestock farming, and environmental conservation. He highlighted that their partnership with Heifer International will establish farmer training centers in every sub-county, starting with Bukalango.
As part of the initiative, outstanding farmers will receive incentives, including dairy cows capable of producing at least 50 liters of milk per day. Poultry farmers will be supported with solar-powered lighting systems to reduce electricity costs.
However, Kaggwa Ndagala pointed out that one of the biggest challenges remains people’s reluctance to take advantage of available opportunities. He urged farmers to adopt a proactive approach and utilize the support provided.
Local leaders support the initiative
Vincent Kayongo, Deputy Ssebwana of Buganda, emphasized the importance of implementing Kabaka’s directive to fight poverty through farming, especially on small plots of land. He expressed gratitude that the program had started in Busiro and pledged full support from local leaders.
Ssaabawaali sub-county chief, Andrew Benon Kibuuka, reported that the coffee seedlings distributed in 2023 had started yielding, and he requested more support to expand the project.
Several beneficiaries shared testimonies on how they had improved their lives through agriculture.
Kabaka Foundation’s agricultural education initiative will continue across all counties of Buganda to empower farmers and livestock keepers with modern skills and resources.