By Vicent Emong
KUMI — Kumi District has taken a significant step toward strengthening agricultural service delivery with the procurement of five motorcycles worth UGX 67.4 million to support extension workers in reaching farmers more effectively.
The motorcycles, handed over to the production department, are expected to improve mobility for extension staff, particularly in hard-to-reach rural areas where farmers often lack access to technical guidance and support.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, District Production Officer Rajab Ogogol commended the Government of Uganda and Kumi District Local Government for prioritizing agricultural development through the investment.
“I want to thank the Government of Uganda and Kumi District Local Government for providing these motorcycles. They are powerful off-road machines meant to help our extension workers reach farmers more effectively,” Ogogol said.
He emphasized that the motorcycles are strictly for official duties and warned against misuse, urging beneficiaries to focus on service delivery.
“These motorcycles are not for leisure or show. They are meant for service delivery. Ensure you reach farmers, especially in hard-to-access areas,” he added.
The initiative is expected to significantly enhance outreach, enabling extension workers to support more farmers each month with technical advice, improved farming practices, and climate-smart agriculture solutions.
Ogogol also encouraged farmers to take an active role in seeking support from extension officers, rather than waiting passively.
“Farmers should demand these services. If you have a challenge, reach out to extension workers or contact my office so we can support you,” he said.
The District Production Officer revealed that additional motorcycles are expected under the Uganda Climate Smart Agricultural Transformation Project, which aims to further equip extension workers and strengthen agricultural productivity.
Despite the progress, he acknowledged that the number of extension workers remains insufficient compared to the growing farming population, calling for better utilization of available services.
He reiterated that government initiatives, including programs under the Parish Development Model, are focused on transforming agriculture from subsistence to commercial production.
“We want to transform our economy, and it is only through agriculture that this transformation will be achieved,” Ogogol noted.
Each motorcycle costs UGX 13.4 million, bringing the total investment to UGX 67.4 million. The move is expected to boost agricultural productivity, improve farmer engagement, and contribute to economic growth in the district.
Ogogol concluded by thanking the President and the Ministry of Agriculture for their continued support, noting that the investment will go a long way in improving farmers’ livelihoods and strengthening the agricultural sector in Kumi District.
