This week, a significant new chapter opened for Uganda’s dairy sector and its vital role in nationwide socio-economic transformation. On Wednesday, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, Mr. Ben Kumumanya, officially commissioned the Shs845 million Buwana Milk Collection Centre in Kinyogoga Sub-County, Nakaseke District.
This state-of-the-art facility, a cornerstone of the Local Economic Growth Support (LEGS) Project, is set to be a powerful catalyst for change, directly impacting the livelihoods of countless rural farmers and setting a new standard for agricultural development.
The commissioning of the Buwana Milk Collection Centre is far more than just the opening of a new building; it represents a strategic investment designed to revolutionise the dairy value chain across Nakaseke’s rich cattle corridor.
By providing a centralised, efficient hub for milk collection, the facility addresses critical bottlenecks, allowing farmers to preserve the quality of their produce, reduce post-harvest losses, and access markets more effectively. This directly translates to enhanced rural incomes, a fundamental driver of socio-economic transformation.
Holistic Approach to Rural Prosperity
Kumumanya noted that the LEGS Project’s vision extends far beyond the milk collection centre itself. It embodies a comprehensive strategy for integrated rural development, with a suite of strategic investments designed to create a vibrant and sustainable agricultural ecosystem. These include:
Infrastructure Renaissance
The rehabilitation of vital arteries, such as the 33 km Gomero–Migani–Kagongi–Buwana Road and the Gayaza–Kalungu–Mityomere Community Access Road. These improved roads are game-changers, drastically cutting transport times and costs, and ensuring that farmers can transport their perishable milk more efficiently and profitably.
As Mr. Abaho Dan, Chairperson of the Buwana Comparative Milk Group, pointed out, the improved Gomero–Migani road alone saw milk prices soar from a meagre Shs200 to Shs700 per litre, directly putting more money in farmers’ pockets.
Market Empowerment
The construction of Magoma and Katelekamese Market Sheds, alongside the Kikwata Coffee Processing Facility and the Kiwoko Maize Milling Plant, diversifies market access and encourages value addition across multiple agricultural products.
Productivity Enhancement
The milk centre complements vital efforts to boost livestock productivity. Abaho revealed that two years ago, the LEGS project strategically invested in training Artificial Insemination (AI) technicians, local youth, and extension workers.
“This move is already yielding results, promising improved cattle breeds and a significant increase in milk production volume, ensuring a consistent and high-quality supply for the new facility,” Abaho noted.
A Model for National Development:
Nakaseke District’s commitment to effective governance and development is reflected in its commendations from Mr. Kumumanya.
The district’s impressive 12th rank out of 176 Local Governments under the Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) and its 14th national ranking in revenue collection are testaments to its dedication.
This strong performance, Mr. Kumumanya affirmed, assures the district of consideration under LEGS II, paving the way for continued investment and growth.
Crucially, the LEGS Project stands as a powerful demonstration of the Parish Development Model (PDM) in action.
By strategically addressing key PDM pillars, production, value addition, infrastructure development, market access, and financial inclusion, the project exemplifies how integrated, grassroots initiatives can catalyse profound change.
Through this collaborative approach, championed by the Government of Uganda in partnership with the Lives and Livelihood Fund and the Islamic Development Fund, the nation is steadily transforming rural livelihoods.
The Buwana Milk Collection Centre is not merely a facility; it is a symbol of empowerment, enabling subsistence farmers to transition robustly into the money economy, securing their future, and propelling Uganda towards greater socio-economic prosperity. The ripple effect of this investment will be felt across Nakaseke and beyond, inspiring similar transformations across the country.