Amolatar District distributes maize and soya bean seeds to cooperatives

14 August 2026, 7:00 pm

By Sarah Ejang

On Friday, August 14, 2026, Amolatar District took a significant step towards enhancing agricultural productivity by distributing 10 tonnes (10,000 kg) of maize seed and five tonnes of soya bean seed to cooperative farmers in the district.

The distribution was part of a Government initiative aimed at supporting large-scale farming and encouraging farmers to participate in groups.

During the event, Mr Ojok Francis, the District Production Officer, popularly known as Abu Joka, said the seeds were specifically targeted at farmers belonging to cooperatives and groups, as well as individuals engaged in large-scale farming.

Ojok assured farmers that the production department would work closely with them to identify viable markets for their produce once harvested.

However, he issued a stern warning against misusing the seeds, urging farmers to use them for their intended purpose to maximise the benefits.

“These seeds have been provided to improve food security and enhance income generation through agriculture. We will assist you in marketing the harvest, but selling or misusing these seeds is strongly discouraged.”

Echoing similar sentiments, Amolatar’s Operation Wealth Creation Coordinator, Rt Col Simba, reinforced the importance of using the seeds effectively.

He advised farmers against selling the distributed seeds and encouraged them to focus on planting and agricultural production.

“Make the best use of these seeds to expand your farms and improve your livelihoods. Selling them defeats the purpose of the programme.”

In an effort to promote transparency and accountability during the distribution, Mrs Acio Susan Eyura, the Principal Assistant Secretary of Amolatar District, representing the Chief Administrative Officer, ensured that all stakeholders were invited to witness the process.

She warned farmers that attempts to sell the seeds would result in legal consequences, including arrest.

“We want this programme to be corruption-free. Every farmer must understand that selling these seeds is a crime punishable by law.”

Hon Margaret Olul, the Amolatar District Local Council V (LCV) Vice Chairperson, also addressed the gathering, urging farmers who are not yet members of cooperatives to join one.

She emphasised that collective engagement not only facilitates access to Government programmes but also strengthens farmers’ ability to negotiate better prices for their produce.

“Joining cooperatives allows farmers to benefit from these initiatives and enables the collective sale of produce, helping them secure higher profits.”

Representing the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) and District Internal Security Officer (DISO), Moses Asea expressed gratitude to President Yoweri Museveni and Gen Salim Saleh for their efforts to eradicate poverty through Operation Wealth Creation.

He also reminded farmers who had received support under the Parish Development Model (PDM) to make timely repayments, while noting that investigations had begun into cases of farmers moving to other districts after receiving PDM funds.

“Thanks to the leadership of our President and Gen Saleh, we have these programmes. Let us manage PDM properly and fulfil our responsibilities.”

Additionally, Moses informed parents and young people shortlisted for recruitment into the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) that their interviews would be held on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, in Dokolo District.

The seeds distributed on August 14 were supplied in partnership with Equatorial Seed Company.

Ms Apok, the regional coordinator of Equatorial Seed, said the initiative was part of Operation Wealth Creation’s efforts to empower farmers with quality inputs needed to achieve higher yields.

Through such coordinated efforts, Amolatar District continues to take steps towards improving agricultural productivity, empowering local farmers and promoting economic growth in the district.