RUKUNGIRI, Uganda – The Rukungiri Livestock Breeders and Food Security Cooperative Society (LIB4SECS) has launched a new tractor and a set of farm implements, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to modernize agriculture and improve food production in the district.
The tractor was officially unveiled on Friday at the cooperative’s headquarters in Kebisoni Town Council during a ceremony attended by cooperative members, local leaders, and development partners.
Speaking at the launch, LIB4SECS Board Chairman Samuel Ahabwe described the acquisition as a major investment that will transform farming by making land preparation more efficient and affordable for farmers.
“Today is not just about receiving a tractor. It is a celebration of vision, partnership, and the power of cooperation,” Ahabwe said.
He explained that the tractor will enable farmers to prepare their land on time, reduce dependence on costly manual labour, improve the transportation of agricultural produce, and minimize post-harvest losses.
Ahabwe said the launch reflects the cooperative’s long-term commitment to promoting agricultural mechanization as a way of increasing productivity, improving household incomes, and strengthening food security in the district.
Looking ahead, he revealed that LIB4SECS plans to expand its services beyond mechanized farming by establishing milk bulking centres, a milk processing plant, an animal feeds plant, artificial insemination (AI) services, and savings and credit facilities.
“Our goal is to build a one-stop, farmer-owned institution that supports members across the entire livestock and food security value chain,” he said.
The Board Chairman expressed appreciation to the Government of Uganda, the Microfinance Support Centre, and the Islamic Development Bank-funded LEGS Project for supporting the acquisition of the tractor and its implements.
He also urged members to use the equipment responsibly to ensure it benefits the wider farming community while encouraging young people to embrace modern, technology-driven agriculture as a pathway to wealth creation and sustainable livelihoods.
The launch is expected to strengthen agricultural productivity in Rukungiri by improving access to mechanized farming services and supporting the district’s efforts to enhance food security and commercial agriculture.
