ENTEBBE — The government has launched the distribution of 173,913 bags of fertiliser to targeted farmers, particularly those engaged in strategic agricultural enterprises such as coffee, tea and cocoa, in a move aimed at restoring soil fertility and increasing farm productivity.
The fertiliser, procured by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) from ITRACOM Fertilizers Uganda, will be distributed to eligible farmers at no cost under a Presidential Directive.
Speaking during the launch at the MAAIF headquarters in Entebbe, Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze said the intervention was part of the government’s efforts to promote precision and evidence-based farming.
“Farmers need to apply the right input, in the right quantity and at the right time if we are to achieve higher productivity and better incomes,” Mr Tumwebaze said.
MAAIF Permanent Secretary Maj Gen David Kasura-Kyomukama said Uganda’s low fertiliser application rate, currently estimated at 2–3 kilogrammes per hectare, coupled with declining soil fertility, continues to constrain agricultural productivity.
He said the distribution would be guided by the principles of speed, proximity and accountability to ensure that the fertiliser reaches the intended beneficiaries.
Maj Gen Kasura-Kyomukama cautioned against the diversion or sale of the fertiliser, saying all bags have been clearly marked “Government of Uganda – Not for Sale.”
“There will be no fees, no charges and no diversion. These fertilisers are a government intervention and must reach the farmers for whom they are intended,” he said.
State Minister for Agriculture, Desire Muhooza, said the programme demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting farmers engaged in strategic value chains.
She encouraged beneficiaries to work closely with agricultural extension workers to ensure the fertiliser is applied correctly and in the recommended quantities.
The launch was attended by the Minister of State for Fisheries, senior MAAIF officials and other stakeholders involved in the agricultural sector.
ITRACOM Fertilizers Uganda, represented by Mr Bigirimana, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the distribution exercise and equipping farmers with knowledge on the proper use of fertiliser.
The intervention is expected to help restore soil fertility, improve crop yields, increase household incomes and strengthen Uganda’s food and nutrition security.
The programme also forms part of broader government efforts to increase agricultural productivity and support farmers in strategic value chains as the country seeks to improve household incomes and promote agro-industrial development.
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