Kabale District has officially launched the distribution of bean seeds and sustainable land management (SLM) equipment to 265 farmers in Kahungye Sub-county. This initiative, targeting former users of the restored Nyombe wetland, is a significant step toward improving livelihoods and promoting environmental conservation.
The distribution, supported under the Green Climate Fund (GCF) project, is facilitated by the Ministry of Water and Environment with funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The tools include 173 hoes, 20 pangas, and 58 forked hoes, alongside high-quality bean seeds aimed at bolstering food security.
Speaking during the launch, Henry Tumwesigye, the Kabale District Natural Resources Officer, emphasized the project’s dual objectives of empowering farmers and conserving the 400-hectare restored Nyombe wetland.
“The tools and seeds will enable farmers to adopt sustainable practices that conserve soil and water, particularly in the hilly areas surrounding the wetland,” Tumwesigye said.
The project, which initially focuses on 265 farmers, aims to eventually support 450 former wetland users whose livelihoods had relied heavily on the now-protected wetland.
In a bid to diversify income sources and enhance nutrition, 130 farmers will also receive heifers and goats as part of the initiative in 2025. Ronald Bagamuhunda, a project coordinator, highlighted the importance of these measures in addressing both socio-economic and environmental challenges.
Local beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the intervention, noting its potential to transform lives.
“This initiative gives us hope for a better future while ensuring we protect the environment,” said Champion Baker, a farmer in Kahungye Sub-county.
Kenneth Mugisha, another beneficiary, added, “The bean seeds will greatly enhance our food security, and the tools will help us adopt better farming practices.”
Kabale District continues to lead in balancing development and sustainability, with the GCF project serving as a model for integrated approaches to environmental conservation and livelihood improvement.
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