Pader launches coffee drive to transform livelihoods

20 April 2026, 18:03

By Ekel Bonny Daniel

Pader District has officially launched coffee seedling distribution, flagged off by RDC Amos Asiimwe Banji, as part of efforts to promote commercial farming and reduce poverty through coffee production.

Resident District Commissioner Amos Asiimwe Banji on Monday 20th April 2026 \officially launched the distribution of coffee seedlings in Pader District, flagging off a government backed programme aimed at expanding commercial coffee farming and lifting households out of poverty.

The launch at the District Headquarters Production Department marked the rollout of the first 50,000 coffee seedlings from an expected 150,000 in the first consignment, part of the district’s request for 500,000 seedlings this year.

Another 100,000 seedlings are expected later this week, with additional supplies to follow as the district advances its long-term coffee expansion strategy.

Presiding over the official launch on behalf of the President, Banji described the programme as both an economic intervention and a test of accountability, urging farmers to treat agriculture as a business, protect the seedlings and ensure government support translates into lasting household wealth.

He also called for stronger supervision by extension workers to ensure technical guidance goes hand in hand with distribution.

Pader District Production Officer and District Agricultural Officer Mr. Seydou Opoka Adolatona said the initiative aligns with a district target to establish coffee gardens in nearly all parishes by 2030/31.

He said only verified farmers who had undergone training, prepared land and dug planting holes using recommended spacing were selected to receive seedlings, while some earlier beneficiaries would receive additional seedlings for gap filling.

Regional Agricultural Officer (Coffee), Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, covering Agago, Pader and Abim, Nicholas Okino said the arrival of seedlings during the first planting season is expected to improve survival rates.

He highlighted the introduction of Coffee Wilt Disease Resistant clones, describing them as faster yielding, more resilient and better suited to boosting productivity.

Farmer Ulum Andrew Livingston from Pader town council raised concern over damage caused by stray animals, renewing calls for stronger livestock control.

Representing the Chief Administrative Officer, Ms. Amony Catherine pledged support for enforcing bylaws to protect farmers and safeguard the public investment.

Hon. Okwir Charles Ray, Councillor V for Pader Sub-county, called for stronger extension outreach, arguing that distributing seedlings without sustained field guidance could undermine results.

Rev. Stephen Olika Enenu, a priest, teacher and farmer, was among the strongest voices of endorsement, presenting coffee as a pathway to self-reliance and middle-income status.

With investments already made in irrigation, shade management, fencing and agroforestry, he said he intends to develop a model farm for learning while encouraging farmers to adopt better soil and moisture conservation practices.

Coffee is no longer being framed as an experimental crop in northern Uganda, but as a serious commercial enterprise requiring discipline, daily management and long-term commitment.