Lira, Uganda – Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Betty Amongi Akena, who is vying for the Lira City Woman MP seat in 2026, has pledged to provide tractors for farmers in former sub-counties like Ngetta, Iwal and Lira Subcounty, among others.
Farmers will only be required to cover the cost of fuel and the operator’s facilitation, making mechanized farming more accessible.Â
Speaking at a hoe distribution event in Ongica and Iwal Wards on March 29, 2025, Amongi emphasized the importance of agriculture and promised to purchase seeds for farmers after consulting them on their specific needs.Â
Beyond farming, she committed to supporting teenage mothers who have been abandoned after giving birth at a young age.
She pledged to fund their vocational training in skills like tailoring and bakery and provide them with startup capital to improve their livelihoods.
She extended similar support to youth who have not had opportunities for further education, offering training in mechanics, welding and electronics repair to help them become self-reliant.Â
For businesswomen, Amongi introduced a loan scheme with a low annual interest rate of 10 percent to help them grow their businesses.
She also called upon the people of Lira City to make good use of the community tents she has provided for events such as marriages and funerals.Â
UPC Chairperson of Ongica Ward, Isaac, urged locals to use the hoes wisely and cautioned them against selling them.
Residents Caroline Akello and Stella Ajok from Acwao Village expressed their gratitude, saying that Amongi has finally come back home to support her people after years of being away.Â
Amongi’s initiatives have positioned her as a strong contender in the 2026 election, with her tangible contributions already making an impact in Lira City.
