By Mulengera Reporters
To transform livelihoods in Busoga through the National Oil Palm Project, Equity Bank Uganda has partnered with the government of Uganda, a long-term initiative designed to tackle poverty and unemployment in the region.
Launched today (October 10, 2025) in Mayuge, Namayingo, and Bugiri districts, the project provides farmers with a reliable source of income and access to local and international markets.
Under the program, farmers receive oil palm seedlings and comprehensive training on maintenance and cultivation practices, to ensure that they can maximize yields and maintain the health of their crops over the years.
Once the palms are harvested, proceeds are directly deposited into the farmers’ bank accounts, with follow-up mechanisms in place to ensure accountability and transparency, a process facilitated and managed by Equity Bank.
According to project officials, each farmer is expected to earn approximately UGX 2.5 million per month, with the potential to maintain this income for 25 to 30 years, a reliable income stream which addresses Busoga’s pressing unemployment and poverty challenges, offering economic stability for farming households.
Uganda already has a strong domestic demand for palm oil and its derivatives, including soap, cosmetics, and other industrial products. This ready market means farmers can sell their produce locally, even before considering exports, creating immediate revenue opportunities and boosting the national economy.
The National Oil Palm Project illustrates a strategic collaboration between the government and financial institutions, with Equity Bank at the forefront, providing the necessary financial infrastructure and guidance to ensure that farmers benefit fully from the initiative.
By combining agricultural expertise with secure banking services, the project promises to deliver sustainable growth and empower communities across Busoga.
