Some of the farm tractors donated to Obongi. Photo by Stephen Unzimai  

By Stephen Unzimai

Obongi
Obongi district local government has been blessed with seven farm tractors to help famers to enhance production in agriculture.

According to the Obongi Resident District Commissioner Samuel Hashaka Mpimbaza, out of the seven tractors, six are from the central government and one was donated by United Nation High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR). “We have received six tractors from the government and one from the UNHCR now totaling to seven tractors for the district.” Hashaka explained.

He also added that as district and UNHCR, they have decided to hand the said tractors to district farmers associations and sub counties. Hashaka also said arrangements are under way to train drivers to operate the tractor in order to utilize them effectively.

The district received one big tractor and five hand working tractors which to the leaders of the district is aimed at increasing the production of the farmers and improve livelihood.

Mr. Ocen Robert, a settlement commandant in Palorinya settlement commits that they will continue extending their helping hands to both refugees and host community. “UNHCR has procured one tractor which will be used for production not only within the settlement but in the whole district but in an organized manner.” Mr. Ocen said. He said as OPM they would do everything possible to ensure they give support for both refugees and host communities.

The majority population in Obongi district are peasants and fishermen whom depend majorly on agriculture or farm production.

At the moment the district has entrusted obongi district farmers association for the use and management of the tractors that should help all farmers in the district.