By Our Reporter 

Ngora District — A local non-governmental organization, Cajila Africa Links Institute, has launched a three-day training program aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural practices among farmers in the Teso sub-region. The initiative seeks to improve agricultural productivity, protect the environment, and enhance long-term food security.

Held at Bishop Kitching College in Ngora District, the training brings together farmers from across the region to gain practical skills in sustainable agriculture, farm management, financial literacy, and value addition through products like soap, paint, and shoes. Participants are also being introduced to basic monitoring and evaluation techniques to help track their progress and improve outcomes at the farm level.

Dr. Cosmas Agweta, Executive Director of Cajila Africa, emphasized the importance of equipping farmers with knowledge and tools that support modern, climate-resilient farming. He noted that the organization has partnered with donors from the Netherlands who have committed to providing farmers with digital tools such as tablets capable of detecting weather patterns, soil conditions, and suitable crop types.

“We believe that empowering farmers with the right information and technology is key to transforming agriculture in Teso,” Dr. Agweta said. “We’re also providing access to recommended seed varieties and creating opportunities for farmers to participate in exchange visits to other regions to learn best practices.”

The training also aims to promote environmental conservation through practices that enable farmers to coexist with animals and biodiversity on their farms. Julius Echodu, in charge of sustainability at Cajila Africa, stressed the need for a holistic approach to land and resource management.

“For one to sustain a living, we must protect land, people, and the environment,” Echodu explained. “This training helps farmers see farming not just as a livelihood, but as a system that must be balanced with nature.”

Local leaders have praised the initiative. Vincent Akorikin, LC1 Chairperson of Ngora and head of all LC1s in the district, commended Cajila Africa for its efforts in transforming agriculture in the region.

“This kind of training is exactly what our farmers need. It will not only improve their livelihoods but also contribute to community development and food security,” Akorikin said.

Participants expressed enthusiasm about the new skills and knowledge. Aloysious Olupot, one of the trainees, said the sessions have already sparked new ideas.

“I have learned things I never knew before. This training is opening doors to new opportunities for me and my family,” Olupot shared.

The program is part of Cajila Africa’s broader mission to support rural development through education, technology, and community-based solutions. Organizers hope to expand the training to other districts in Eastern Uganda in the coming months.