In the heart of Buliisa district, a quiet revolution is taking place among farmers, thanks to the tireless efforts of individuals like Ezekiel Ungerwoit. Ezekiel, a passionate leader of the Furber Farmer group, is witnessing firsthand the remarkable changes that have come about through collective action and access to modern farming equipment. The catalyst for this transformation is Living Earth Uganda, in partnership with Total Energies EP Uganda, who have made it their mission to uplift the agricultural landscape in the region.
Ezekiel’s words resonate with a profound truth: “A lot can be achieved when farmers are organized in good numbers with a common cause.” The Furber Farmer group is just one of many groups whose existence has been positively influenced by Living Earth Uganda’s initiatives. Their efforts have centered around the distribution of cutting-edge agricultural machinery, including cassava chipping machines and silos, that have had a profound impact on the local farming community.
One of the key innovations that Ezekiel highlights is the cassava chipping machine. He describes it as a game-changer in their work, simplifying the process of cutting and chipping cassava to a remarkable extent. “What would take me two weeks to chip,” he explains, “this machine takes just a day to clear it.” With the newfound efficiency brought by this equipment, the challenge has shifted to the farmers in their group to produce more. Ezekiel proudly shares his own achievement, stating, “Personally, I chipped 7 bags of cassava in one day, and in one week, I had it all ready for consumption and the market.”
Living Earth Uganda’s impact extends far beyond the Furber Farmer group. Over 20 Farmer Groups and Associations, predominantly consisting of Project Affected Households, have received vital equipment as part of an initiative aimed at empowering farmers and enhancing their agricultural techniques. The distributed equipment includes not only cassava chippers but also silos, drying racks, and more. This comprehensive approach ensures that farmers are equipped with the tools they need to thrive in every aspect of their agricultural endeavors.
The execution of this transformative program is expertly overseen by Living Earth Uganda, acting on behalf of Total Energies EP Uganda. Ezekiel emphasizes the significance of these farmer groups, as they play a pivotal role in aggregating harvests. By joining forces, they can amass larger volumes of produce, enabling them to negotiate more favorable terms in the marketplace. This unity not only bolsters their individual incomes but also strengthens their collective bargaining power.
In the heart of Buliisa, farmers like Ezekiel Ungerwoit are sowing the seeds of prosperity through organization, innovation, and collaboration. With access to modern farming equipment and the support of organizations like Living Earth Uganda and Total Energies EP Uganda, they are redefining the future of agriculture in their region. As they continue to come together with a common cause, their success story serves as an inspiring example of what can be achieved when farmers stand united.