Cashew nut growing for the elderly launched in Teso

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In a landmark effort to economically empower older persons in the Teso sub-region, elderly affairs state minister Dominic Gidudu, has launched an initiative to plant 10 million cashew nut seedlings.

The programme targets the improvement of the socio-economic welfare of 50,000 out-growers across eleven districts in the region.

Gidudu highlighted that cashew nut cultivation would offer a sustainable source of income for elderly individuals, enabling them to participate meaningfully in the money economy championed by President Yoweri Museveni.

"We're creating our own jobs in homesteads by planting cashew nuts," Gidudu said during the launch on Saturday, May 17.

"With cashew nuts, an elder will be sure of getting money annually to meet medical bills and upkeep."

According to John Peter Erimu, National Vice Chairperson of the NRM Elders’ League for Eastern Uganda, cashew nut trees begin fruiting after three years and can continue producing for over 30 years.

An acre accommodates approximately 75 trees, each yielding 20 kilogrammes in the first harvest and between 40-50 kilogrammes in subsequent years. With an already established market, elderly farmers stand to earn significant income, thereby attaining self-sufficiency.

Cashew nuts are hardy crops suitable for semi-arid areas, making them ideal for the climatic conditions of Teso.

Gidudu noted that cashew farming could replace livestock keeping, which poses challenges for the elderly.

The initiative has already received a positive response, with Reverend John Michael Ebaju dedicating an acre for planting, and Moses Ariong expressing optimism that cashew farming will bring financial relief to many elderly families.

Gidudu said he drew inspiration for the project from earlier interventions like the donation of chickens and piglets to elderly households.

"I have nursery beds for cashew nut seedlings that I supply to my fellow elders," he said. "Our target is 10 million seedlings to cover the Teso sub-region."

Scientists have also pointed out the health benefits of cashew nuts, which include reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke, both of which are common among the elderly.

This project represents a significant step towards empowering older persons in Teso, offering them a stable income source and improving their overall quality of life.