A progressive poultry farmer in Lira City is attracting visitors from across the Lango sub-region and beyond as word spreads about his farm in Anani Ober, Anai ward, Lira City West Division.
Jasper Okello Gena, a 52-year-old mixed farmer, recently donated a pair of rabbits to a German national who visited his farm. Gena explained that during the visit, which was accompanied by a team of individuals, he happily offered the rabbits as a gesture of solidarity and to encourage further interest in his farm.
In return, the visitor pledged to provide Gena with over 50 dragon tree seedlings, aimed at promoting fruit farming on a larger scale within the Lango sub-region. These seedlings will be sourced from Kampala and planted on land secured by Gena for this purpose.
Gena, who halted his formal education at P.7, drew inspiration from President Yoweri Museveni Kaguta’s message regarding agricultural practices, particularly the four-hectare model, which he heard on the radio in 2014.
Speaking to a reporter from the Ankole Times, Gena emphasized his commitment to implementing the knowledge gained from the President’s message, despite his limited formal education. He stressed the importance of not solely relying on government programs but rather actively applying acquired knowledge.
Peter Abwang, a teacher residing near Gena in Anai Ober cell, praised Gena’s contributions to agriculture in the area, noting his positive influence on fellow farmers to adopt practices such as poultry farming, piggery, and goat rearing. Abwang urged the government to support Gena by facilitating the marketing of his incubator innovation, enabling him to train other farmers and providing financial assistance and improved breeds of goats and rabbits.
Initially met with skepticism, Gena’s farm is now a hub of activity, attracting visitors from various parts of Uganda, including Kampala and West Nile. To accommodate his expanding operations, Gena plans to acquire a larger piece of land and construct a new facility to house his pigs, as well as his 84 parent stocks of poultry and guinea fowl.
Gena’s success has allowed him to provide employment to four family members and afford quality education for three of his children in Lira City through the proceeds from poultry, rabbit, and goat sales.
For inquiries, Jasper Okello Gena can be reached at 0785 686961.
