Centenary Bank launches solar irrigation initiative for Karamoja farmers
“We need to find sustainable projects that can transform communities and provide lasting solutions for the people,” Bishop Rubaramira said.
Kotido: Centenary Bank has donated Shs40 million to religious institutions in Kotido District while unveiling plans for a solar-powered irrigation demonstration project aimed at improving agricultural productivity and food security in the Karamoja sub-region.
The support was handed over at the diocesan offices in Kotido during a ceremony attended by Centenary Bank officials, religious leaders, and local stakeholders.
The bank donated posho and beans worth Shs15 million to the Anglican Diocese of Kotido, while the Catholic Diocese of Kotido received Shs25 million, including Shs15 million and an additional Shs10 million to facilitate the purchase of medical supplies.
The handover was witnessed by Centenary Bank Chairman Gustavio Bwacho, Board Member Dr. Basil Ajer, Directors Hon. Tom Aliti and Chris Byaruhanga, Regional Manager Sarah Achen, and Kotido Branch Manager Jhanan Obong Olum.
Also present was Rt. Rev. Callist Rubaramira, Bishop of Kabale Diocese, who urged stakeholders to prioritize sustainable interventions that tackle the underlying causes of poverty.
“We need to find sustainable projects that can transform communities and provide lasting solutions for the people,” Bishop Rubaramira said.
The bishop welcomed the bank’s plan to invest in agriculture, noting that sustainable farming initiatives are vital for Karamoja, where communities continue to grapple with drought, food insecurity, and the effects of climate change.
Speaking on behalf of Centenary Bank, Director Hon. Tom Aliti reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting community development through agriculture.
“The planned solar-powered irrigation demonstration project will provide farmers with a practical model of using renewable energy to access water, increase production, and reduce dependence on unreliable rainfall,” Aliti said.
He explained that the demonstration site will serve as a training center where farmers can learn modern farming practices, water management techniques, and climate-smart agriculture.
According to Aliti, improving agricultural productivity will help communities build resilience, boost household incomes, and strengthen food security.
At the Catholic Diocese of Kotido, the donation was received by Rev. Fr. Monsignor Daniel Nabuya, who expressed appreciation for Centenary Bank’s continued partnership with communities in Karamoja.
“The support, including assistance towards the purchase of medical items, comes at a critical time when communities continue to face challenges affecting their wellbeing,” Rev. Fr. Nabuya said.
He noted that the donation would enhance support services and complement ongoing efforts to improve the lives of vulnerable people across the region.
Centenary Bank Kotido Branch Manager Jhanan Obong Olum also thanked the dioceses, local leaders, and residents for embracing the bank’s community initiatives.
Religious leaders praised the intervention, saying the combination of food relief, medical assistance, and investment in sustainable agriculture provides both immediate support and long-term opportunities for development.
They described the planned solar-powered irrigation project as timely, given that many farmers in Karamoja still depend on seasonal rainfall despite increasingly frequent dry spells.
Once established, the irrigation scheme is expected to demonstrate how renewable energy and modern irrigation technologies can support year-round farming, improve crop yields, and encourage commercial agriculture.
Karamoja has faced recurring drought, declining agricultural productivity, and persistent food insecurity in recent years, prompting renewed calls for increased investment in irrigation, climate-resilient farming, and agricultural value addition.
Centenary Bank officials say the initiative reflects its broader commitment to moving beyond emergency assistance by investing in sustainable solutions that improve livelihoods, strengthen food security, and enhance economic resilience in the region.
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