By Brian Atuhura
Farmers benefiting from the Micro scale irrigation program in Masindi District have raised concerns over the poor performance of some irrigation systems, citing limited impact on thier agricultural productivity.

The affected farmers attributed the challenges to contractors who allegedly supplied sub-standard equipment or carried out incomplete and poor installations, rendering some systems ineffective on their farms.

The concerns were raised during a district meeting held on Wednesday last week at the district headquarters aimed at reviewing the implementation progress of the micro scale irrigation program.

Responding to the issues,the Senior Engineer from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF),Baker S Ogwang,who also serves as the cluster coordinator for the program, assured farmers that corrective measures would be taken.He noted that the Ministry,in collaboration with the district,will compel contractors responsible for faulty installations to rectify the defects.In some cases , farmers may be required to make minimal contributions, particularly for materials not included in the original project scope.

Ogwang emphasized that the program is specifically designed for Small holder farmers to enhance productivity,with irrigation coverage limited to a maximum of 2.5 acres.He advised farmers intending to irrigate larger areas to independently acquire additional equipment.

The Deputy Chief Administrative Officer, Jane Akiror, commended the government for extending irrigation support to farmers, noting that the initiative will enable year round production and improve household incomes.She urged extension workers to intensify support to farmers to maximize the benefits of the technology.

Representing the District Chairperson,the Vice Chairperson Kassim Kabagonza, praised farmers for embracing irrigation technology, describing it as a key driver in improving agricultural output in the district.He also called on the Ministry to continue providing technical support.

Closing the meeting,the Secretary for Production Geoffrey Kiiza Bigabwa, representing the Resident District Commissioner,lauded the implementation of the program, noting that it's benefits are already encouraging more farmers to adopt the technology.He revealed that he personally earned over shs 10 million from vegetable farming supported by irrigation.

Kiiza further appealed to the Ministry to extend support to agro-processors to promote value addition and expand market opportunities for agricultural produce in Masindi District.