Ukerewe sets sights on coffee

MWANZA: THE government has unveiled a strategic plan to make coffee the second economic pillar in Ukerewe District in Mwanza Region, as part of broader efforts to diversify income sources, create jobs for youths and reduce dependence on the fishing sector.

Speaking during the distribution of 26,000 coffee seedlings to 14 Agricultural Marketing Cooperative Societies (AMCOS) at Busagami Village in Namilembe Ward, Ukerewe District Commissioner Mr Christopher Ngubiagai urged residents to embrace modern and productive farming.

“It’s time to move away from the mindset of relying solely on fishing. We must make good use of our land and turn coffee into the second pillar of our economy. The government is investing heavily in this crop to boost employment and income for the people of Ukerewe,” he said.

Mr Ngubiagai stressed that genuine development comes through action, not words and urged residents to support President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision to strengthen the agricultural sector.

He further revealed that more than 400,000 coffee seedlings are expected to be supplied to the district to revive the once-thriving cash crop.

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The DC called on residents to work together in building a “Ukerewe ya Kijani” through coffee farming, promising close collaboration with farmers to ensure a conducive production environment.

For his part, Nyanza Cooperative Union (NCU) Chairman, Mr Leonard Lyabalima, said coffee has the potential to transform the lives of Ukerewe residents, urging the government to continue prioritising coffee growers.

“Coffee can change people’s lives. If we invest our energy in it, the crop will increase household income and drive genuine economic growth,” he said.

Acting Ukerewe District Executive Director, Mr Wanchoke Chinchibela, assured that the council will continue working hand-in-hand with farmers by ensuring extension officers provide ongoing education on proper coffee management practices.

Meanwhile, coffee trainer and grower Ms Amina Yusuph Kashoro urged farmers to protect their seedlings by adhering to good agricultural practices, including the proper use of fertilisers, timely irrigation and safeguarding farms from livestock damage.

A member of Nduruma AMCOS, Mr Ernest Goroba, commended the government for reviving the crop that once served as Ukerewe’s economic backbone and encouraged residents to fully embrace the initiative for the district’s sustainable development.