The Assistant Resident District Commissioner of Kumi, Ms. Irene Akello, On Thursday, February 20, 2025, oversaw the distribution of 252 zebu heifers to local farmers at Kituba in Kakures Sub County. The heifers, which cost government 312,480,000 UGX, were provided as part of an initiative aimed at supporting farmers who have land adjacent to wetlands and have been relying on wetland farming for their livelihood. This initiative is funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) project titled “Building Resilient Communities, Wetlands Eco-systems, and Associated Catchments Project in Uganda.” The project focuses on demarcating a 21-kilometer distance to protect over 400 hectares of wetlands. In her speech, Ms. Akello expressed gratitude to the government for the support and congratulated the beneficiaries on their achievement. She emphasized the importance of caring for the heifers and encouraged the recipients to ensure that the animals reproduce before being utilized for other purposes. Ms. Akello reiterated the government’s commitment to improving the lives of its citizens while also highlighting the significance of environmental protection. She reminded the farmers of their crucial role in safeguarding nature. Moses Opio, the Project Focal Person, noted that the distribution of heifers aligns with one of the GCF project's objectives, which focuses on providing alternative livelihoods for farmers who have voluntarily chosen to leave wetland farming practices. Opio explained that the selection of the heifers was based on a prior community meeting, allowing beneficiaries to choose their preferred enterprise. He cautioned the farmers against returning to wetland cultivation, warning that severe actions would be implemented for those who do so.  Everest Maraka Okubal, the LC3 Chairperson of Kakures, commended the government for fulfilling its promise to provide heifers and for prioritizing environmental protection. He noted that the preservation of the wetland had positively impacted the community, leading to a resurgence of fish and providing ample grazing land for livestock. Maraka also raised concerns about political interference in the initiative, urging the community to remain steadfast in preventing a return to wetland farming practices.