KIKUUBE, Uganda — Farmers in the Kikuube District are seeing projected high returns from their first rice harvest under a CNOOC Uganda-backed livelihood program, a key step toward restoring incomes and improving food security in the Kingfisher Development Area.
The harvest, which includes the high-yielding WDR-73 rice variety, features initial estimates suggesting yields of 2.5 to 3 tons per acre. Millet, also grown under the initiative, is anticipated to produce between 1.5 and 2 tons per acre.
The Innovative Livelihood Restoration Program for Crop Production, launched in March 2025, is designed to support Project Affected Persons and host communities. The program is implemented by the Hoima Caritas Development Organization (HOCADEO) with technical assistance from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)-China-Uganda South-South Cooperation.
Over 300 farmers have received training on modern farming techniques since the program’s launch, with 80 currently cultivating the improved rice and millet varieties.
Farmer representative Emmanuel Balijwaha said the practical training and support has restored confidence in farming as a sustainable livelihood.
Ma Peixin, vice president of CNOOC Uganda Limited, said the first harvest demonstrates the impact that can be achieved when communities are given the right training and resources.
CNOOC Uganda is committed to a holistic approach of Green Ecological Oilfield Development, ensuring that while we develop Uganda’s oil resources, we also strengthen local livelihoods, Peixin said.
The program was praised by partners at the harvest ceremony. Zhang Xiaoqiang, team leader of the FAO-China-Uganda South-South Cooperation Project, said the transfer of technology is boosting yields and complements government agriculture modernization efforts. Penninah Aheebwa of the Petroleum Authority of Uganda noted the program’s alignment with national content and development priorities.
The livelihood initiative is one of several community development efforts supported by CNOOC Uganda. Other projects include scholarships for more than 1,400 students, skills development training for over 300 youth in sectors like heavy goods vehicle driving, and health camps that provide free medical services to thousands of residents.
