By Haron Okwir
Otuke, Uganda– Julius Achon, the Member of Parliament for Otuke East County, has donated maize seedlings worth 82 million Ugandan Shillings (approximately £17,500) to farmers in his constituency in a bid to boost agricultural productivity and reduce rural poverty.
The seedlings were officially distributed on Tuesday, 28 April 2025, across four sub-counties and two town councils within Otuke East.
The donation targeted male farmers aged 18 and above.
Achon, a former Olympian turned politician, said his leadership is a calling from God and called for unity among constituents, warning against political divisions which he said undermine development.
He urged voters to make wise decisions in future elections and not to be swayed by small handouts from other politicians.
Bosco Okullu, LCIII Chairperson of Orum Sub-county and Achon’s representative at the event, said the initiative also aims to combat youth unemployment and reduce crime by engaging young men in productive farming activities.
Ricky Obua, an LCIII aspirant for Ogor Sub-county, urged religious leaders to steer clear of sectarianism, stressing that political leadership should not be influenced by denominational affiliations.
Patrick Opio from Agwenodony hailed him as unmatched in dedication, while Obote Jimmy of Otuke Secondary School area praised the MP’s contributions and pledged full support for his leadership.
Achon has undertaken numerous development initiatives in Otuke and the wider Lango sub-region.
To date, he has constructed 97 boreholes in Otuke District and announced plans to install an additional 200 in 2025, with support from Australian donors.
His water projects also extend to districts such as Alebtong, Lira, and Amolatar.
