Busoga gets plan to revitalise region

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JINJA

Busoga king, William Gabula Nadiope IV, has outlined an ambitious plan for 2025.

The plan is aimed at revitalising the region's agricultural productivity, enhancing unity among the Basoga and combating poverty.

Central to the Kyabazinga’s vision is a renewed focus on commercial agriculture, with the promotion of a "4-acre model" encouraging families to cultivate their own land effectively.

“We must return to our roots as the Food Basket of Uganda,” the Kyabazinga said, urging his subjects to embrace agricultural practices that can support both local and national food security.

The monarch revealed this to New Vision Online on December 27, 2024, after visiting Kaynela Farms Limited at Bwamulamira village, Kayonza sub-county in Kayunga district.

The Kyabazinga, who visited the farm with the (queen) Inhebantu of Busoga, Jovia Mutesi, was welcomed by the farm’s chief executive officer, Faiso Serujogi, and the farm’s business lead, Peace Kayesu. The duo ushered the royals to one of the on-farm cottages to ready themselves for the farm tour.

The royals were later welcomed in a traditional tent by Promise Kayesu, who introduced them to the Banyankole wooden milk pots (known as Ebyanzi) and gourds, which were kept on a special raised step in a corner of the traditional hut.

Kayesu explained the various types of ‘Ebyanzi’ to the Kyabazinga and Inhebantu, adding that they are used to keep fresh milk.

Kayesu revealed that fresh milk tastes better when the Ebyanzi are smoked beforehand using dry grass and it is exactly what she did and had the honour to serve Kyabazinga and Inhebantu the fresh milk.

From the traditional hut, Peace Kayesu and Serunjogi led the Kyabazinga and Inhebantu in touring the farm’s banana plantation, aquaculture, Poultry, Aviary section with more than 50 bird species, fruit gardens and livestock among others.

After the farm tour, Kyabazinga, Inhebantu and their entourage were served traditional meals that were prepared at the farm including drinks like the famous Kaynela banana juice.

In line with modern development initiatives, Nadiope IV highlighted the importance of engaging with government programs, notably the Parish Development Model (PDM), which aims to transform subsistence farming into commercial agriculture.

Kyabazinga William Gabula Nadiope IV (2nd R) and Inhebantu Jovia Mutesi (R) feeding fish as they were touring Kaynela Farms in Bwamulamira village in Kayunga district on Friday. Looking on is Faiso Serunjogi (3rd L) the CEO of Kaynela Farms. (Photo by Donald Kiirya)

He encouraged his subjects to take advantage of these resources to elevate their living standards and foster economic stability within the kingdom.

“To combat poverty, we must work together. Every household should strive to educate their children, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation,” he stated emphatically, underscoring the role of education as a catalyst for social and economic development.

In addition to agricultural and educational initiatives, the king emphasized the need for improved health services in the region.

He announced plans to organize more health camps, providing necessary medical treatment and health education to the sick and underprivileged members of the community.

These health camps aim to bridge the gap in healthcare accessibility, ensuring that all Basoga receive the attention and care they deserve.

Kyabazinga stressed the importance of unity and collaboration among the Basoga people.

Kyabazinga and Inhebantu expressed gratitude towards the proprietors of Kaynela Farms for hosting them.

“Unity of purpose is essential for our progress. When we stand together, we can achieve great things,” he declared, calling for a collective effort to overcome the challenges that lie ahead.

They later rode quad bikes around the farm, which amused onlookers.

Serunjogi explained to Kyabazinga and Inhebantu that Kaynela Farms, an agritourism enterprise promises a unique experience rooted in traditional farming heritage, to whoever visits it.

He added that they strive to revive healthy meals by showcasing ancient farming practices and organic food production, adding that Kaynela Farms boasts eight years of promoting sustainable organic farming.

Peace Kayesu said they are looking forward to expanding the farm in order to attract more local and international tourists and birders.

Kayesu said the farm sits on 75 acres and utilises solar power and drip irrigation to ensure year-round cultivation.

She added that the farm is accredited by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), Avian Conservation Uganda Society (ACUS) and Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) for a great bird-watching experience, keeping crocodiles, Ostriches, Horses and Camels among others.

More than fifty bird species have been recorded on the farm, including the Willow Warbler, Black-faced waxbill, Bulbul, Piapiac, Black-winged kite, African green pigeon, Grosbeak weaver and the Ruppell’s starling among others.

The royals were accompanied by Prince Henry Woira of Bugabula BB, Prince Richard Gabula, Busoga Kingdom’s permanent secretary, Geoffrey Sajjabi, and their Budhumbula farm manager and handlers.