By. Oola Courage Allan
Communication Officer
Kitgum District Commissions Shs 2.1 Billion National Oil Seed Road to Boost Agricultural Production
Namokora North Sub-County, Kitgum District — Kitgum District Local Government has officially commissioned the Shs 2.1 billion Ogul-Pii–Peke–Abunai Community Access Road, a 26.9-kilometre stretch constructed under the National Oil Seed Project to transform agricultural production and market access in the district.
The newly rehabilitated road, located in Namokora North Sub-county, was implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government as part of government’s broader strategy to enhance rural infrastructure and promote oil seed farming in Northern Uganda.
Presiding over the commissioning ceremony, the Resident District Commissioner, Mr. Komakech Walter Oyoo, applauded both the district leadership and the central government for what he described as a “timely and impactful investment” in the livelihoods of the people.
“This oil seed road is a strategic government intervention aimed at boosting the production of sim-sim, groundnuts and sunflower in this region,” he said. “The community is blessed to have a road that directly connects farmers to their farmlands and opens access to markets.”
He commended the contractor, Abayo Foundation Stores Limited, for executing the works professionally and within the agreed timeframe, noting that the project reflects value for public resources.
The RDC emphasized that improved road connectivity will significantly reduce post-harvest losses, ease transportation of produce, and strengthen household incomes. However, he reminded residents that maintenance of the community access road remains a shared responsibility.
“Government has done its part. It is now upon the community to protect and maintain this road to ensure it serves generations to come,” he urged.
Komakech also cautioned residents against selling their land, describing land not merely as an economic asset but as a symbol of identity and heritage. “A person without land is like one who has cut ties with his ancestors,” he remarked.
District Chairperson, Arwir Christopher Obol, echoed similar sentiments, praising the contractor for delivering quality work that demonstrates accountability and value for money.
He noted that the improved road network is expected to enhance mobility, stimulate trade, and attract social amenities such as health facilities, water sources, and schools as the area’s population continues to grow.
“With better infrastructure comes development. This road will not only support agriculture but will also attract essential services to this community,” he said.
However, the Chairperson urged residents to remain vigilant, warning that improved road access can also attract criminal elements, including cattle raiders from neighboring areas such as South Sudan and Karamoja.
He concluded by encouraging the community to embrace and safeguard their land and resources, stressing that sustainable development begins with ownership and responsible stewardship.
The Ogul-Pii–Peke–Abunai road stands as a landmark government investment in Kitgum District, signaling renewed commitment to rural transformation and agricultural commercialization in the Acholi sub-region.
Ends