Speaker Among, Minister Jim Muhwezi Urge Kigezi Residents to Embrace High-Value Farming

Rukungiri: The Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among, Minister for Security Maj. Gen. Jim Muhwezi, and the Kabale Diocese Pastoral Coordinator Rev. Fr. Fudeli Ndagijimana have urged residents in the Kigezi region to focus on high-value farming such as coffee, Hass avocado, dairy cattle, and other profitable enterprises. They said this would help communities move away from subsistence farming and earn a stable income for their families.

The call was made on November 16, during the Bishop’s Annual Appeal Fund (BAAF) event held at Nyakibare Catholic Parish, where funds were being raised to complete the parish conference hall and its gardens.

Minister Muhwezi, who is also the Member of Parliament for Rujumbura County, encouraged the public to avoid working only for survival and instead invest in activities that generate income. He noted that although land in Kigezi is limited, farmers can still engage in coffee production, zero grazing, poultry, piggery, and education of children as long-term investments to fight poverty.

CUE IN…MUHWEZI…RR

Representing Speaker Among, the NRM Woman Flag Bearer for Rukiga District Dr. Silvia Tumuheirwe Arineitwe appealed to residents to participate actively in government poverty-eradication programs such as PDM and Emyooga. She urged them to invest these funds wisely in high-value enterprises that bring quick and steady returns.

Rev. Fr. Fudeli Ndagijimana while representing the Bishop of Kabale diocese said the Catholic Church is already implementing government policies by encouraging parishes to grow high-value crops. He revealed that many parishes have planted coffee, while others in Kabale District are growing Hass avocado and tomatoes in greenhouses. He added that the Diocese has also started supporting Hiikas with startup capital for income-generating projects.

He further urged parents to allocate small portions of land to children aged 13 and above, allowing them to rear rabbits, plant tomatoes, and engage in other projects that equip them with skills and financial literacy from an early age.

CUE IN….FR NDAGIJIMANA…RR

The fundraising event, graced by the NRM Woman Flag Bearer for Rukungiri District Mary Paula Kebirungi, NRM flag bearer for Rukungiri Municipality Gen. Henry Tumukunde, and other dignitaries, raised UGX 141,699,900 and 10 bags of cement, including both cash donations and pledges.