Oyam, Uganda | Oyam District has begun excavating 15 standard fish ponds under the Uganda Climate-Smart Agricultural Transformation Project (UCSATP), in a move aimed at boosting aquaculture, improving household incomes, and strengthening climate resilience.
Each pond will measure 50 metres by 20 metres and is being constructed at the Nen Anyim Fish Farmers Group in Abongo Awobi B Village, Angom Parish, Iceme Sub-county.
The Shs75.3 million project is being implemented under an 80:20 cost-sharing arrangement between the Government of Uganda and the 15-member farmers’ cooperative. Besides excavation, beneficiaries will receive fingerlings, lime, and fertilisers to support fish production and proper pond management.
A joint monitoring team from the Office of the Oyam Resident District Commissioner (RDC) and the District Internal Security Office (DISO) visited the site to assess progress and ensure transparency in project implementation.
The team, led by Deputy RDC Francis Behangana, popularly known as UPE Product, inspected the works and emphasized community participation, accountability, and preparedness for the next phase of implementation.
Oyam District Fisheries Officer Bernard Bua said the project will enable farmers to diversify their sources of income while embracing climate-smart agricultural practices.
He urged farmer groups that are yet to fulfil their co-funding obligations, including Bung Onyer and Okere, to honour their commitments so they can also benefit from the programme.
Members of the Nen Anyim Fish Farmers Group welcomed the initiative, describing it as a major boost to commercial fish farming in the area.
Group chairperson Quinto Ayer said the project has revived hope among farmers in Iceme Sub-county, while member Richard Odyek noted that the provision of essential inputs such as fingerlings and fertilisers will reduce production costs and enable farmers to focus on increasing yields.
Iceme Sub-county LCIII Chairperson Robert Opio Awelo said the project is expected to create employment opportunities, particularly for young people, and improve household incomes.
Angom Parish LCII Chairperson Geoffrey Ogwal urged beneficiaries to follow technical guidance and properly maintain the ponds to guarantee long-term productivity.
Behangana commended the cooperative for mobilising members and raising its contribution, saying community ownership is key to the success and sustainability of government programmes.
Excavation works are ongoing, with fish stocking expected once the ponds are fully prepared. District officials say the site will serve as a demonstration centre for climate-smart aquaculture and encourage more farmers across Oyam District to invest in fish farming.