Farmers in Amolatar district demand urgent infrastructure improvements

26 March 2025, 12:12 pm

By Sarah Ejang

Farmers in Amolatar district are expressing their frustration as the deteriorating state of local roads severely hampers their ability to transport produce to vital markets in Lira and Soroti.

The urgency of their plight became alarmingly apparent when the rains resumed for the first season, with several trucks becoming immobilised at Otira swamp, exacerbating an already critical transportation crisis.

The implications of these poor road conditions extend far beyond mere inconvenience. Local farmers are now facing inflated transport costs, as they are compelled to hire alternative, unreliable vehicles. Many reports indicate that the substandard condition of these vehicles leads to significant damage to produce during transit, resulting in devastating losses for farmers who depend on sales for their livelihoods.

Ejalo Stella Okun, chairperson of the Ongocen Rice Group, alongside Okwir Tonny from the Canopwonya Group, has voiced their discontent with district leadership. They argue that authorities have neglected essential infrastructure improvements—including roads and healthcare facilities—compounding operational difficulties and limiting access to medical care. This lack of access has reportedly contributed to rising mortality rates in the district, an alarming situation that demands immediate attention.

Frustrations among farmers are further fuelled by what they describe as inadequate oversight from district officials, leading to substandard quality in road maintenance. Photographic evidence showcasing poorly levelled marram piles provides a stark representation of the inadequate work that residents have been forced to endure.

Despite budget allocations aimed at infrastructure improvements, farmers remain sceptical about the effective utilisation of these funds, eroding their trust in local governance.

In a recent discussion with Major General Katumba Wamala, the Minister of Works, the district chairman was urged to optimise the use of available resources. While this advice offers a glimmer of hope, farmers continue to advocate passionately for better leadership and increased diligence in addressing their infrastructure woes.

Despite these ongoing challenges, the resilience and determination of Amolatar’s farmers shine through. They remain hopeful that with concerted efforts and the prioritisation of necessary changes, the conditions of their roads will improve.

Their collective voice serves as a powerful reminder to the authorities about the pressing priorities that must be addressed, not only for the sake of farmers’ livelihoods but also for the overall well-being of the community.

The call for urgent infrastructure development in Amolatar district is louder than ever, as farmers strive for the fundamental changes needed to secure their future.