BY Stephine Opio
DOKOLO: Caritas Lira, a non-governmental organization, has successfully empowered 2,700 households in five sub-counties of Dokolo district, thanks to their tremendous efforts.
These sub-counties include Okwalongwen, Amwoma, Bata, Agwata Town council, and Adok respectively.
The primary objective of the project was to eradicate poverty and elevate the locals to the middle-income bracket, which has been successfully achieved.
According to Francis Ojok, the program manager at Caritas Lira, the project has provided extensive training to farmers on bee farming, equipped fishermen with recommended boats and nets, and promoted irrigation and tree planting.
He said the community has also been trained in making kitchen stoves locally.
A recent monitoring visit to the project sites in Agwata and Adok revealed the significant impact it has had on the community, and how it has played a pivotal role in their economic empowerment.
Rev. Father Desiderius Pule, the executive director of Caritas Lira, highlighted the project’s importance, particularly in the communities affected by floods in Agwata Town Council and Adok sub-counties.
Dr. Richard Enyang, the production officer of Dokolo District, also commended Caritas for their remarkable work in the district.
He mentioned that Caritas has made a significant contribution in areas like climate change, livelihoods, and supporting flood victims in earning a livelihood.
He further expressed his hope for Caritas to extend their support to other parts of the district as well.
Ogwal Nam Francis, the secretary for production and natural resources who represented Dokolo district chairperson James Otto Apili, praised the project’s impact and requested for its extension to other sub counties like Kwera, Okwongdul, and Adeknino among others.
Mark Breusers, the regional representative for Caritas International Belgium in Ethiopia and Africa, was also delighted with the project’s progress and encouraged beneficiaries to continue working hard to achieve their goals.
Locals such as Calvin Alyek, Rose Acen, and Joseph Odit have shared their positive experiences and the project’s significant impact on their lives.
They are grateful to Caritas Lira for their efforts in economically empowering them, and believe that its effects will last for years to come.
