By Dorothy Nyabumbi
BUNYORO: There is a sigh of relief among cattle farmers in the Bunyoro sub region following the early rainfall being experienced in the region that has helped to save farmers from drought that had hit the area.
Drought badly hit the Bunyoro sub-region since November last year, greatly affecting cattle farmers since most valley dams had dried up making it difficult for the farmers to access water for their animals.
According to the farmers, animals had started dying due to the dry spell, as there was no pasture and water to feed and water their animals respectively.
However, with a lot of rainfall being experienced in the region since the beginning of January, the farmers say they have been relieved since their animals can now access water as valley dams are now filled with water. The grass that had dried up has also started sprouting.
David Mushaija, a herdsman in Kasenyi Lyato in Buseruka sub-county in Hoima says between November last year and January this year, he lost 10 cows that died due to lack of pasture and water.
He is however optimistic that with the early rainfall being experienced in the area, his animals will survive since they can now access water and grass.
Benard Rukundo, a farmer in Kiryandongo explains that the early rainfall being experienced in the region is a big relief to them.
James Natumanya, another farmer in Hoima says he had lost hope expecting that his cows would all succumb due to lack of pasture and water but following the rainfall being experienced, he is assured that his animals will survive.
Karim Rusathura, also a farmer, says the early rainfall has not only relieved herdsmen but also crop farmers to start preparing their gardens for early planting of crops.
Stephen Rugyendo,a farmer in Buliisa says he lost 20 cows between November and December last year due to drought that resulted into lack of pasture and water adding that with the return of the rains early, most farmers will be able to look after their cattle since they can now access pasture and water which are key to the survival of animals.
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