By Benjamin Epeduno

Katakwi: The Vice President of the Republic of Uganda H.E Rtd. Major Jessica Alupo has commissioned Ongongoja Fruit Growers Co-operative Society in Ongongoja Sub-county, Katakwi District.

The UGX 317 million project under ‘Legs Projects’ with support from Islamic Development Bank (IDB) was commissioned on Saturday 12, November 2022.

Hon. Alupo who was the chief guest urged the growers to stick by the Co-operatives principles in order to attain a better management and development.

She asked the public to continue supporting NRM and government projects. “It’s the only government that has stabilised Uganda mostly Katakwi. Let’s continue supporting it for the continued development of our people and our country,” she said.

Mr. Gabriel Engole, the Chairman of the Co-operative asked Government to reconsider injecting in them more UGX 100 million to boost productivity in line to Agriculture and Marketing.

Engine says, the co-operative which started in 2012 with thirty (30) members inclusive of nine (09) Board Members, has now grown to 252 very active members who will be majoring in bulking of the produce, marketing among others.

He further tasked Hon. Magyezi to lobby for them two tractors, and one lorry for ferrying and transporting the commodities.

During the commissioning, was also the Minister For Local Government, Hon. Raphael Magyezi who asked farmers to utilise the provided project and assured them of government’s commitment to providing them all they have requested.

The Co-operative is serving a total of 2,000 out growers in areas of Okulonyo and Usuk Sub-counties and also in some parts of Napak District in Karamoja sub region.