The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries, in collaboration with the Ministry of Water and Environment, officially inaugurated a fish harvest event at the Agu Mini Irrigation Scheme in Agu Sub County, Ngora District.
One of the fish beneficiaries in Agu Sub County explains the benefits he has gained so far from fish farming since shifting from rice farming.
Implemented across 24 districts by MAAIF, MOW, and UNMA, with generous support from the Green Climate Fund and UNDP under the ‘Building Resilient Communities, Wetlands Ecosystems, and Associated Catchments in Uganda’ initiative, this project aims to foster alternative livelihoods and promote responsible wetland usage.
During the launch of the fish harvest on Friday, August 18, 2023, Adong Mike Loasio, the Chairperson of Ngora District, lauded the Government’s commitment to introducing sustainable alternative livelihoods. He emphasized that this landmark fish harvest at Agu Wetland marked the initiation of a lasting livelihood intervention. He urged the group to serve as a model and advocate, encouraging them to formally register as a cohesive unit and establish a savings plan for effective scheme management. Furthermore, he highlighted that this project stands as a viable alternative to previous economic initiatives, evidenced by the substantial improvements in the livelihoods and income of the Agu community.
The Agu Fish Farmers Association, responsible for overseeing the Agu Mini Irrigation Scheme, boasts a membership of 152 individuals, including 71 women. With the assistance of 40,000 fish fingerlings provided in September of the preceding year, they anticipate a harvest exceeding 30,000 catfish and tilapia.
Eng. Kato Andrew, the Project Officer in Charge of the program, rallied the Agu community to take ownership of the project and devise sustainable plans for its continued success.
The Assistant Commissioner of Wetlands at the Ministry of Water and Environment, Iyango Lucy, also graced the event. She urged the District leadership to diligently supervise and monitor the project to ensure its sustainability and community ownership.”