In the heart of Kamandindi village, nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Buliisa district, resides a remarkable woman named Akumu Florence. She is not just a resident but a widowed mother of 10 children, with 7 of them currently pursuing their education. Akumu’s story is one of unwavering determination and resilience in the face of challenges.
Akumu’s life took an unexpected turn when her land was partially affected by the activities related to oil and gas exploration. Despite the adversity she faced, Akumu is immensely grateful to Total for their support in the restoration process.
“Not much of my land was affected,” she recounts, “the road construction under RAP 5 sliced part of my land, which had gardens, and Total has been deeply involved to ensure I do not feel the shock and agony of losing it.”
In a significant step toward recovery, Akumu became a beneficiary of the Agricultural Support Services Project (AgricSSP), a Total-funded initiative being diligently executed by Living Earth Uganda. The primary objective of this project is to expedite the recovery of individuals and communities affected by the oil and gas industry, particularly in the Tilenga region.
As part of her support package, Akumu received a range of agricultural inputs, carefully selected to help her bounce back from the setbacks imposed by the project. These inputs included high-quality cassava cuttings, groundnut seeds, and maize seeds, all of which exceeded industry standards.
Before the distribution of these valuable inputs, Living Earth Uganda provided practical and technical training sessions on improved agronomic practices to Project Affected Persons (PAPs). This crucial training was designed to prepare them for the introduction of new crop varieties and techniques that would enable sustainable farming.
Akumu acknowledges that this training played a pivotal role in transforming their family’s farming practices. The tangible results of their dedication are vividly evident in the bountiful yields they are now experiencing.
“Looking at the lush green canopy of cassava at this stage, compared to our indigenous cassava at the same stage, is a clear indication of hope for a bountiful harvest,” Akumu observes with optimism.
Akumu Florence’s story stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community support. In the face of adversity, she has not only managed to reclaim her land but has also cultivated hope for a brighter agricultural future in Buliisa district. Her journey reminds us that with determination, the right support, and a commitment to sustainable practices, even the most challenging circumstances can be overcome.