Otuke, Uganda – The Member of Parliament for Otuke East, Julius Acon Bua, has called upon the government to prioritize animal keeping as a way to support farmers affected by climate change.
According to Acon, animal keeping is a more resilient and reliable source of income for farmers, compared to crop farming, which is often vulnerable to climate-related disasters.
Speaking during the distribution of 60 goats to members of the Obanga Akica group in Apiyowiny village, Amunga parish, Ogwete sub-county, Acon emphasized the need for the government to promote animal keeping as a strategy to help farmers overcome poverty and join the money economy.
“The government and farmers play a significant role in creating wealth, and it is essential that we prioritize animal keeping as a way to join commercial farming,” Acon said.
Acon cited the recent floods that affected the Lango sub-region, including his district of Otuke, where farmers lost their crops, leaving them without food or income.
He noted that animal keeping is a more viable option, as animals are less affected by climate change compared to crops.
Under the project, Acon has distributed a total of 260 goats and 44 sheep to 19 different groups in Otuke East.
He explained that the initiative aims to support farmers in fighting poverty, paying school fees, and accessing medical care.
”This is the 19th group that I have given goats to, and I urge the beneficiaries to keep them well so that the impact can be seen in fighting poverty,” Acon said.
The project coordinator of Amunga parish, Dickens Olwa, welcomed the initiative, noting that Otuke district is one of the most vulnerable to climate change.
“The vision that Acon has come out with to fight poverty is very good, and we urge the government and other stakeholders to support the locals in the area,” Olwa said.
Beneficiaries of the project, including Sharon Acio, a resident of Apiyowiny village, expressed gratitude to Acon for the donation.
“The goats will support our families, especially our husbands who have not completed paying dowry,” Acio said.
The LC1 chairperson of Apiyowiny village, Sam Otim, also thanked Acon for rehabilitating livelihoods in the area. ”We welcome the donation with happiness and show love to Acon for what he is doing to support our community,” Otim said.
Acon’s initiative has been praised by local leaders and community members, who see animal keeping as a sustainable solution to poverty and climate change.
