On a rainy morning in Kigala Village, Mubende District, Godfrey Semuli, a determined farmer, scurried to gather rainwater cascading from a rooftop tank. With practiced ease, he directed the overflow into a makeshift water harvesting well in his garden. Moments later, he joined us under a shade, his face alight with pride. “This water will see me through the dry season,” he said confidently. For Semuli and other farmers in the region, rainwater harvesting isn’t just a technique—it’s a lifeline.
Uganda’s agricultural backbone, which supports over 70% of its population, is under increasing strain from erratic rainfall and prolonged droughts. Climate change has rendered traditional farming practices unreliable, threatening livelihoods and food security.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Animal Industry, Uganda loses approximately 5% of its GDP annually to climate-related challenges in agriculture.
Farmers like Semuli have been hit hard, particularly in Mubende District, where coffee farming is a primary source of income. Unpredictable rainfall patterns led to plummeting yields, compelling communities to seek sustainable solutions. Enter rainwater harvesting and modern farming techniques—innovations now transforming the agricultural landscape.
Adapting to a Changing Climate in Uganda’s Agricultural Sector
Semuli’s story is one of resilience and ingenuity. Through Community Care for Development (C-Care Uganda) and partnerships with the government and organizations like FAO, he was trained in water harvesting techniques and sustainable agriculture.
“Unreliable rains almost drove me out of farming,” he shares. “But with the water storage system, I’ve been able to irrigate my coffee and vegetables even during the dry season. My income has quadrupled since adopting these methods.”
The heart of Semuli’s setup is a government-installed water tank that collects rainwater from his roof. Excess water flows into a 4-foot-deep, tarpaulin-lined well, which serves as a reservoir for irrigation. “This system ensures my crops thrive year-round,” he says.
Experts echo the importance of such interventions. “Rainwater harvesting is a game-changer for smallholder farmers. It’s not just about water; it’s about securing livelihoods in the face of climate variability,” Yiga Vincent, a climate adaptation specialist says.
The Power of Innovation
Walking through Semuli’s lush 16-acre farm, it’s hard to believe it once struggled with drought. Neat rows of coffee bushes interspersed with matooke trees paint a picture of productivity. Nearby, a square pit brims with harvested rainwater, while goats roam in an enclosure, their waste enriching the soil.
Semuli beams as he describes his transformation. “From earning UGX 7 million in 2019, I now make UGX 27 million per season. I’ve built a modern house, expanded my land, and ensured my children’s education.”
His story is echoed by other members of the Balitulabirako Farmers Group (“they will learn from us”), a collective championing sustainable farming. Each member has adopted water harvesting systems, mulching, and erosion control techniques, dramatically improving yields and resilience.
Beyond the Farm: The Economic and Social Impacts of Sustainable Farming Practices
Rainwater harvesting isn’t merely a survival strategy; it’s a model for climate resilience. By empowering farmers to secure water during rainy seasons, these techniques reduce dependency on erratic weather patterns, enabling consistent crop production.
The success of initiatives like Semuli’s highlights the broader potential of community-driven solutions. However, scalability remains a challenge. While organizations like FAO and C-Care Uganda provide vital support, many farmers lack access to such programs due to funding and infrastructure gaps.
Dr. Yiga underscores the need for policy integration. “The government must prioritize water harvesting in its agricultural agenda, allocating resources for training and infrastructure. Public-private partnerships can also play a crucial role in scaling these innovations.”
Alternative Solutions and Innovations
In addition to water harvesting, farmers are embracing other climate-smart practices. Agroforestry, intercropping, and mulching not only boost productivity but also enhance soil health and biodiversity.
Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) further empower farmers, providing financial security and capital for expansion.
Semuli’s group has saved over UGX 30 million, enabling members to invest in tools, seeds, and training. “Savings have transformed how we farm,” says Semuli. “We’re not just surviving; we’re thriving.”
A Glimpse of the Future
As Uganda grapples with climate change, the stories emerging from Kigala Village offer a beacon of hope. Rainwater harvesting and sustainable farming are not just keeping farms alive; they’re building resilience and transforming lives.
Semuli’s vision reflects this optimism. “I plan to expand my farm and buy a vehicle to transport my produce. With the right support, we can achieve even more,” he says.
Uganda’s path forward lies in scaling these grassroots innovations, ensuring every farmer can reap the rain and secure their future.
As Dr. Yiga aptly puts it, “Investing in sustainable practices today will determine whether Uganda’s farms flourish or falter tomorrow.”
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