Farmers in Amolatar District Demand Urgent Infrastructure Improvements

Farmers in Amolatar District are raising their voices in frustration as the poor condition of local roads continues to hinder their ability to transport produce to critical markets in Lira and Soroti.

The situation has reached a breaking point, with 11^th.Jan.2025 Saturday incidents highlighting the extent of the infrastructure crisis; several trucks became immobilized at Otira Swamp, further exacerbating transportation issues.

The implications of these deteriorating roads are dire for local farmers, who are now forced to incur inflated transport costs by hiring alternative vehicles.

 Many reports indicate that produce is being damaged while being loaded onto these unreliable trucks, leading to significant losses for the farmers who rely on these sales for their livelihoods.

Ejalo Stella Okun, the chairperson of the Ongocen Rice Group, alongside Okwir Tonny from the Canopwonya Group, have voiced their discontent towards the district leadership.

They assert that the authorities have failed to prioritize essential infrastructure, including roads and healthcare facilities, which not only complicates their operational capabilities but also impacts access to medical care—a factor they claim has contributed to increased mortality rates in the district.

Compounding their frustrations, the farmers argue that inadequate supervision from district officials has resulted in subpar quality in road maintenance.

Photographic evidence of poorly leveled marram piles serves as a testament to the shoddy work that residents have been subjected to.

 Despite the allocation of significant budgets earmarked for infrastructure improvements, farmers believe these funds are not being utilized effectively, further diminishing their trust in local governance.

During a recent communication with the Minister of Works, Major General Katumba Wamala, the district chairman was urged to maximize the potential of available resources.

Amidst these challenges, farmers remain hopeful that with better leadership and diligence, the conditions of the roads will eventually improve.

Their resilience and determination to advocate for necessary changes highlight the urgent need for infrastructure development in Amolatar District.

As they continue to press for action, the community’s collective voice serves as a reminder of the pressing priorities that must be addressed to secure both their livelihoods and overall well-being.