The Matata Solar -Powered Irrigation Scheme was officially handed over to local farmers following a successful final technical inspection by a team of engineers from the Ministry of Water and Environment in a bid to have agricultural development in Bukedea district.

The handover ceremony of the 948million project by the Nexus Green Limited as the contractor funded by UK Export Finance and the Government of Uganda was held at the project site in Matata village , Osanyuk parish , Kangole Subcounty was attended by district leaders, Ministry officials , project engineers and a jubilant group of beneficiaries most of whom a smallholder farmers who now look forward to all season farming , thanks to the reliable water supply from the newly commissioned system.

The solar powered irrigation scheme , one of the government's flagship climate resilient agriculture projects was inspected and approved for full functionality. The inspection confirmed that all systems components including solar panels , water pumps , storage tanks and distribution lines met the required technical standards and were ready for use .

Speaking at the symbolic handover, Godwin Nuwamanya, the Deputy Manager water for production commended the projects execution ,noting it's potential to transform livelihoods with in the area .

" This scheme is a game changer for farmers in Matata. It will support year round irrigation, increase crop Yields and boast household incomes . The farmers are encouraged to engage more in horticulture since the crops require a short period to mature and will give faster Yields " said Nuwamanya .

The scheme currently has 12.5acres under irrigation with 13 households . It is solar powered which provides a sustainable and eco friendly solution to the growing challenges posed by climate change and erratic rainfall .

During the ceremony, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner, Hajji Oyo Araphat expressed gratitude to the government and development partners for prioritizing agricultural infrastructure in the region .

"This project is timely as the area is usually affected due to severe drought but with this system, we expect not only increased productivity but also a shift towards commercial agriculture" he said

He also called upon the people of Matata to embrace the project and also have a change of mindset so as to fully benefit from the irritation scheme project .