EADEN conducted a joint monitoring visit on 14^th/August/2023 to assess stakeholder perceptions of the organization’s interventions in Bugiri District. The visit involved interactions with key officials, including the Resident District Commissioner, Local Councilor Five chairperson, District Production Officer, District Commercial Officer, Sub-County Chief and Community Development Officer. The visit took place in Budhaya sub county, Bugiri District. The major objectives of the visit were to:

1. Gather feedback from program beneficiaries and stakeholders on EADEN’s interventions in the District.
2. Strengthen relationships with Local Government officials at both District and Sub-county levels.
3. Identify and document learning and recommendations for improvement of EADEN’s work.

The visit involved interactions with selected Local Government Officials, a meeting with members of a farmer cooperative, and a tour of the cooperative premises. The agenda for the meeting covered various activities including introductions, presentations, communications from both EADEN and government representatives, and visits to the cooperative and progress farmers.

During discussions, the cooperative chairperson highlighted achievements, challenges, and future plans. Notable achievements included cumulative income, group savings, and substantial rice and maize production. Challenges included lack of electricity, irrigation systems, capital, low crop productivity, and a drying yard.

Representatives from government expressed support for the cooperative and emphasized the importance of self-sustainability.

Recommendations included restructuring membership for accountability, increasing the cooperative’s proactive role in generating income, obtaining a permanent certificate, and building trust to attract more farmers.

The meeting concluded with a tour of cooperative assets including the ACDP maize processing plant, bulking activities, and the seed bank.