As farmers in Eastern Teso prepare for the upcoming planting season following a prolonged dry spell, clan leaders in Ngora District have completed a two-day training on modern agricultural practices.

The training, aimed at transitioning farming from subsistence to commercial levels, was organized by Dr. John Ekure, a member of the Irarak Clan, who enlisted experts from the National Farmers Leadership Centre (NFLC).

The NFLC, established to enhance the capacity of farmer leaders and promote agricultural transformation, was initiated under President Yoweri Museveni's directive.

Dr. Ekure, the director of Kumi Orthopedic Centre, recognized the center's impact and invited experts to equip his clanmates with improved farming techniques and a new approach to agriculture.

During the training, Dr. Simon Peter Angeki, an instructor specializing in livestock farming, attributed poverty among the Iteso community to reliance on traditional farming methods.

He noted that keeping low-yield local cattle breeds limits farmers' income potential.

"Mindset change is critical. Farmers must embrace improved livestock breeds and modern farming techniques to boost productivity and household incomes," he said.

John Joseph Onapito, chairman of the Irarak Imo Clan, acknowledged the economic hardships faced by his community but expressed optimism that the training had inspired a shift towards agribusiness.

"This training has opened our minds to think bigger. We now see the potential in agribusiness and are ready to transition from small-scale farming to commercial ventures," Onapito said.

With the rainy season approaching, the training is expected to have a lasting impact, encouraging more farmers in Ngora and the greater Teso region to adopt modern agricultural practices for improved food security and economic stability.