A total of 4,000 apple seedlings worth over 40 million shillings were today distributed to Kisoro District from the National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) Secretariat in a bid to promote apple growing in the region.
The seedlings were received by the Kisoro Deputy Resident District Commissioner (DRDC), Robert Tukamuhebwa.
According to Tukamuhebwa, the President has tried to promote apple growing in Kigezi region because of its cool and conducive climate as well as the rich fertile soils.
He noted that apples are one of the most sought-after cash crops that can bring in good foreign exchange and increase household incomes in Kisoro.
A total of nine farmers from the sub counties of Busanza, Nyundo, Kanaba and town councils of Bunagana and Nyanamo are set to benefit directly from the distribution.
In May this year, the same number of apple seedlings were discarded by the Kisoro District LCV Chairperson Abel Bizimana and Kisoro District Operation Wealth Creation Coordinator Col. Deo Kayita after the suppliers failed to provide proper accountability and clear documentation on who was to benefit.
Abel Bizimana commended the team today for operating in transparency and thanked the District Production Officer Richard Habomugisha for providing all the necessary documentation.
He criticized people in Government who have caused financial loss to Kisoro District after using its name to purportedly procure donations from NAADs and eventually leave the district engaged in court cases of fraud incurring hefty fines and penalties.
Kisoro district production officer, Habomugisha Richard, said the nine farmers will be closely monitored and offered technical support to ensure high and quality yields are realized.
Discussion about this post