Nebbi municipality, in North-Western Uganda, is tackling food insecurity and poverty head-on through a community-driven initiative. With agriculture as its primary economic driver, Nebbi faces challenges like inconsistent rainfall, declining agricultural production, and limited access to resources, particularly for women farmers.
In partnership with EL-THREE, Nebbi established the Agroecology Centre. This project promotes sustainable farming techniques and empowers local communities. It has set clear targets to achieve food security by 2030, including: increased food production and household consumption, reduced post-harvest losses and food waste, water harvesting for dry-season irrigation, and improved soil and water management practices.
In the Agroecology Centre, local leaders play a crucial role with their active participation. They mobilize the community, enforce regulations, conduct timely assessments and lead by example, fostering a sense of ownership and sustainability among residents.
The project aligns with several SDGs, including: SDG 1 – No poverty, SDG 3 – Good health and well-being, SDG 12 – Responsible consumption and production, and SDG 13 – Climate action. Its impact is evident through the following:
- Improved food security: more households are consuming at least two meals a day, with a decrease in malnutrition and stunting among children.
- Increased household income: participating families have seen a rise in their agricultural earnings.
- Knowledge sharing: farmers increase their knowledge through workshops on sustainable practices.
- Environmental restoration: depleted soils are being revitalized, and vegetation cover is improving.
- Community ownership: as a case example, residents of Pawong Pida community established kitchen gardens in over 540 households.
A vision for food security
Led by Mayor Ngiriker Geoffrey, the municipality is committed to achieving SDG 2 – Zero hunger with initiatives outlined in the Municipality Development Plan (2020/21 – 2024/25) and aligned with the National Development Plan III, empowering the community through improved agricultural practices and knowledge sharing.
Nebbi municipality works with a diverse group of implementing partners, including Action Aid Uganda, Mentoring and Empowering Program for Young Women (MEMPROW), Agro-ecology and Governance Network (AGONET), PELUM Uganda, and Nebbi District Local Government which helps ensure no one is left behind.
The Agroecology Centre demonstrates the power of community-driven solutions in achieving food security and poverty reduction. Nebbi serves as a model for other regions facing similar challenges, inspiring them to cultivate communities free from hunger and disparity.
