Govt awards 25 best youth farmers 

State minister of agriculture Christopher Kibazanga and Food and Agriculture Organisation official Aihaji Jallow handing over awards to the winners at Imperial Royale Hotel yesterday. Photo by Mary Kansiime

The agriculture ministry has awarded 25 youth farmers engaged in agri-enterprises and livestock farming.

Awarded on Thursday in Kampala, the 25 youth farmers have been taken on by the Government as model farmers, to interest and guide other youth in the farming business.

According to Prof. Augustus Nuwagaba, the chief judge at the National Youth Champions in agriculture, the finalists were drawn from the over 500 youth farmers who participated in the competition.

"The 25 youth farmers are from five regions (central, eastern, northern, south western A and south western B) of Uganda. They were selected after a national search," Nuwagaba said.

At the ceremony, the winners were given plaques, certificates and money. The overall winner Charles Kisembo from Kagadi district, walked away with a prize of sh3.5m.

Fatuma Namutosi who came second was given sh2.5m. 

During the selection process, the judges looked at value addition, impact on community such as employment, and gender empowerment.

Kisembo, the overall winner urged fellow youth to embrace agriculture for their improved well-being and economic development of the country.