Apac District Reports Progress in Implementation of Climate Smart Agricultural Transformation Project to Stakeholders

Apac, Uganda— The Apac District Local Government, through the Department of Production, has issued a status update on the ongoing implementation of the Uganda Climate Smart Agricultural Transformation (UCSAT) Project in the district.

Launched in December 2024, the UCSAT project aims to build the resilience of farming communities to climate change through the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices, improved access to climate-resilient technologies, and enhanced market linkages.

According to the UCAST focal point person, Mr. Maxwell Elinga, significant progress has been made in the last 5 months, with tangible benefits already visible among target farmer groups.

“We have reached over 180 smallholder farmer groups across 10 sub-counties, Town Councils & Divisions, who are now ready to practice improved soil and water conservation, agroforestry, and integrated farming systems. Farmers have also been trained in post-harvest handling and value addition to increase incomes,” he said.

Key achievements to date include:

· Identification of 20 km of road chocks (Abuli-Omer 4km, Amilo-Alebtong-Ayumi 11.5 km, & Abolo-Dulowelo-Okutuagwe 6km).

· Establishment of 8 climate-smart demonstration plots for farmer training and knowledge exchange.

· Site for construction of integrated laboratory identified.

· Mobilization and sensitization of farmers to join groups already done and still going on.

· Strengthening of local farmer groups and cooperatives to improve collective marketing and access to finance.

Challenges encountered include sporadic weather patterns, limited access to mechanization, and delayed procurement of some inputs. However, the district is actively working with partners to address these bottlenecks and ensure timely implementation of all components.

The Apac District leadership remains committed to scaling up the Climate Smart Agriculture model to ensure long-term food security and environmental sustainability. The next phase of the project will focus on expanding reach, enhancing storage infrastructure, and promoting digital climate information services for farmers.