Construction of the Oil Seed Project Begins in Soroti

The Soroti District Local Government has commenced the construction of 13 kilometers of community access roads under the National Oil Seed Project. The initiative aims to ease the transportation of produce, improve market access, and boost oil seed production in the region.

The project was officially launched on Friday, February 14, by Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Ronald Bakak.

The roads being upgraded cover areas including Agaya, Abata, Okunguro, and Agirigiroi in Arapai Sub- County, as well as Abule, Kelim "A," Kelim "B," and other parts of Tubur Sub- County. The total cost of the project is valued at UGX 883,180,528, with the contract awarded to Texa Solutions Limited.

Soroti Chief Administrative Officer, Elly Piwang, stated that Soroti is among the districts benefiting from the National Oil Seed Program, which is funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) in partnership with the Government of Uganda.

Piwang appealed to the community to cooperate with the contractors to ensure the work is completed efficiently and under strict supervision. He highlighted that once the roads are rehabilitated, farmers will have better access to markets, which will encourage increased productivity. He also urged farmers to select viable agricultural enterprises that can enhance their social and economic well-being.

Simon Peter Edoru Ekuu, the LC5 Chairperson of Soroti District while addressing the community members urged farmers to increase sunflower, simsim, and soya bean production and enhance trade with neighboring districts in the Teso sub-region and across the Country.  He noted that the improved road network will not only facilitate economic growth but also enhance mobility and service delivery for the surrounding communities.

Additionally, Edoru said next phase of the project should focus on establishing a market within the oil seed production areas, enabling farmers to sell their produce more conveniently.

Deputy RDC Ronald Bakak highlighted that the improved road network will facilitate better access to health services and improve overall service delivery in the district.

Bakak encouraged the community to utilize the roads effectively by engaging in economic activities and constructing commercial structures along the routes to spur economic transformation.

The National Oil Seed Project, which was rolled out in 2021, is set to run for seven years. It aims to support smallholder farmers by enhancing oil seed production and establishing strong market linkages. With better road infrastructure, farmers in Soroti can expect improved livelihoods and greater opportunities for economic growth.

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By Abraham Ekwaru, Communication Officer