By Jamillah Kemigisa
Bunyangabu: More than 200 farmers in Bunyangabu District have received training in bench trenching and terracing, a soil and water conservation method aimed at restoring degraded highlands, improving soil fertility, and boosting agricultural productivity. The training was conducted in Kitengya Village, Kabonero Subcounty.
Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Kamukama Nicholas used the event to rally farmers towards hard work, unity, and discipline in managing their farmlands.
“Hard work is rare but rewarding. Those in the lowlands should also join this initiative, because what happens in the highlands affects them too. Peace must be maintained to protect the gains made,” Kamukama said, stressing that development comes through effort and commitment.
James Kwesiga, Sustainable Land Use and Crop Production Officer with the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) in the Rwenzori region, outlined the broader goals of the project.
“Our aim is to increase household incomes, improve market access, conserve the environment, and promote gender equality. By working with farmers in hilly areas, we are rejuvenating highland farms and ensuring sustainable land management,” Kwesiga explained.
He added that sustainable practices not only improve productivity but also prevent conflicts.
“Land disputes are increasing because land is scarce. By making better use of existing highlands, we can achieve higher yields, protect wetlands, and reduce tensions,” Kwesiga said.
The project, he noted, also benefits communities downstream by reducing erosion.
“When highland soils are conserved, lowland farms are protected. Erosion from hills often damages lowland areas, so starting at the top safeguards everyone,” he emphasized.
Local farmers expressed optimism about the initiative. Edward Kirungi, a resident of Bukoba Village in Kabonero Subcounty, offered his land for trenching after seeing the benefits in Kabale District.
“I saw farmers in Kabale harvest impressive yields from terraced hillsides. My land is not as steep, so I expect even better results. I am ready for this transformation,” Kirungi said.
District Police Commander (DPC) Tumwesigye Wilson also cautioned participants about proper livestock management and security.
“LC1 chairpersons cannot issue licenses for selling animals. They can only identify owners and forward introductions to the subcounty veterinary office for official movement permits, valid from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Any deviation risks theft,” Wilson warned.
The Bunyangabu bench trenching project forms part of IFDC’s BRIGHT initiative in the Rwenzori region, which promotes climate-smart agriculture, soil and water conservation, and market-oriented farming. By rehabilitating highland farms and empowering local communities, the project seeks to boost productivity, strengthen resilience, and improve livelihoods across the district.
