Consultancy on Performance Assessment and Enhancement of Management of Agoro Irrigation Scheme by Altus Consult Ltd.
The Agoro Irrigation Scheme, located in Lamwo District in northern Uganda was constructed in late 1960s, by the Government of Uganda to enhance agricultural productivity and improve livelihoods in the region.
The scheme primarily relies on water drawn from the Agoro River and supports an extensive network of canals for irrigation. Covering approximately 675 hectares of arable land, the scheme provides opportunities for smallholder farmers to cultivate crops such as rice, maize, vegetables, and other high-value crops throughout the year, reducing reliance on rain-fed agriculture.
The scheme is seen as a critical intervention for improving food security, creating employment, and boosting household incomes in Lamwo District, contributing to broader regional development goals.
Altus Consult Ltd implementing a consultancy assignment for the Performance Assessment and Enhancement of Management of Agoro Irrigation Scheme in Lamwo District. The assignment aimed to assess the scheme’s operational efficiency, identify management gaps, and implement strategies to enhance its functionality and sustainability.
Key outputs of the assignment include:
- Comprehensive Performance Assessment: An in-depth evaluation of the scheme’s operational, technical, and management systems, highlighting areas for improvement.
- Institutional Strengthening: Revitalization of Farmer-Based Organizations (FBOs), including the Irrigation Water User Association (IWUA) and Water User Committees (WUCs), to ensure effective governance and equitable resource distribution.
- Capacity Building: Training of leaders and stakeholders on financial management, water regulation, and agricultural best practices to improve management capabilities.
- Development of Operational Frameworks: Preparation of guidelines and manuals for water allocation, infrastructure maintenance, and resource mobilization to support efficient operations.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Facilitation of consultations with farmers, local government, and national ministries to align scheme operations with stakeholder needs and priorities.
- Sustainability Promotion: Encouraged a shift among farmers to adopt modern, business-oriented farming practices and to embrace fee-based irrigation services for long-term sustainability.
Through a consultative and participatory approach, Altus Consult Ltd delivered practical solutions and established mechanisms to ensure the effective and sustainable management of the Agoro Irrigation Scheme. This has positioned the scheme as a key driver of agricultural productivity and economic growth in Lamwo District.
