By Jamila Kemigisa
Cattle farmers in Nyakatonzi Sub-county are grappling with the devastating effects of an extended dry spell that has persisted since December last year. The prolonged drought has depleted critical water sources and pastures, putting livestock health and local livelihoods in jeopardy.
Reports from the affected community indicate that grazing lands have deteriorated rapidly, leaving herders with limited options to sustain their animals. “The grass has completely dried up, and we are losing our cows,” said Patrick Mujamani, a local cattle keeper, as he described the dire situation faced by farmers across the sub-county.
Godfrey Begumisa, another livestock owner, echoed the concerns, noting the absence of rain has made it nearly impossible for cattle to find adequate nutrition. The condition of the animals has steadily worsened, with many suffering from weight loss and poor health.
Ham Natuhwera, the area local councilor, emphasized the scale of the challenge, citing the deteriorating quality of pastures as a key factor in declining livestock productivity. “The prolonged dry period has led to a critical shortage of feed, threatening both the survival of the animals and the economic stability of the farmers who depend on them,” Natuhwera stated.
Compounding the crisis is a severe shortage of water. Muyambi Yamba Kenith, Chairperson of Muhumuza Co-operative, highlighted that traditional water sources—such as ponds—have dried up, forcing cattle keepers to trek long distances in search of water for their herds. “Farmers are traveling further than ever before to secure water, and the situation is becoming unsustainable,” Kenith remarked.
Context Of Recurring Drought
Nyakatonzi Sub-county, situated within Uganda’s cattle corridor, is accustomed to seasonal dry spells. However, community leaders and experts note that the current drought is longer and more intense than in previous years. Climate change and environmental degradation are cited as contributing factors, increasing both the frequency and severity of drought conditions.
Historically, cattle deaths, food insecurity, and financial losses have accompanied such dry periods. While some cattle keepers have implemented short-term coping strategies—such as relocating livestock, constructing water reservoirs, and appealing for government assistance—there is growing consensus that more sustainable, long-term interventions are urgently needed.
The crisis in Nyakatonzi has reignited calls for comprehensive drought mitigation efforts. Experts are advocating for the adoption of water conservation technologies, the introduction of drought-tolerant pasture species, and the establishment of robust emergency response frameworks to support livestock farmers during periods of extreme weather.
Local leaders and community members are appealing to both government authorities and humanitarian organizations to provide immediate relief, including the supply of water and livestock feed. “Intervention is needed now, but we must also invest in future resilience to ensure that our farmers can withstand these increasingly severe dry spells,” Kenith added.
As the drought continues to take its toll, stakeholders across Nyakatonzi remain hopeful that collaborative efforts will not only alleviate the current hardships but also pave the way for a more sustainable and climate-resilient future for the region’s cattle-keeping communities.
