Rukiga leaders have raised concern over persistent land fragmentation in the district, saying it has reduced agricultural opportunities and affected household incomes, particularly among rural families.
The concerns were raised during the launch of the Rukiga District Community Skilling Programme, locally known as "Emikono Yeitu" (Our Hands), at Kyerero Grounds in Bukinda Sub-county.
The programme seeks to equip community members with practical skills to diversify household incomes and promote self-reliance amid challenges including limited access to land and unemployment.
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The initiative, hosted by Rukiga District Woman MP Dr Sylvia Alinaitwe, will provide free training in mushroom growing, crafts and weaving, bakery, soap making, shoe making and financial literacy.
It was officially launched by State Minister for Gender and Culture Mary Kamuli Kuteesa.
Alinaitwe said land fragmentation has over the years made it difficult for residents to engage in farming on a larger scale, limiting the potential of agriculture to support household incomes.
"Different projects which we have launched today will help our people to eradicate poverty. The skills will also boost their household economy," Alinaitwe said.
She said the hands-on skilling programme is intended to provide alternative sources of income, particularly for young people and women who face limited employment opportunities.
Pamela Kihumuro, the focal person for the programme, also highlighted land fragmentation as one of the challenges affecting livelihoods in the district.
She said the programme will initially establish more than 42 training centres across Rukiga District to bring the skills closer to communities.
Meanwhile, Rukiga District LC5 Chairperson Robert Mbabazi Kakwerere said district leaders should also prioritise finding markets for products made by beneficiaries if the programme is to generate sustainable incomes.
Mbabazi also raised concerns over farmers who left wetlands following government directives, saying many had not received compensation.
"Our people were told to vacate wetlands, which they listened to and stopped cultivating in the wetlands, but up to now government hasn't compensated any farmer," Mbabazi said.
