At least 200 cows have died in Bunyoro sub-region between April and August this year due to shortage of water and pasture resulting from drought. Livestock farmers in Buliisa, Hoima, Kagadi, Kiryandongo and Kikuube districts have been struggling to look for pasture and water for their animals following the long dry spell.
The cattle farmers say the few available dams that used to provide water for their animals have all dried up forcing them to trek long distances in search of water. Karim Rusasura, a cattle farmer in Bugoigo in Buliisa district explains that since April, he has lost 30 animals to drought, arguing that the situation currently is out of hand.
James Kagina, a herdsman in Kasenyi Lyato village in Buseruka Sub County in Hoima district explains that the prevailing conditions have compelled most of them to sell off their animals. He has so far lost 40 cows.
Lam Karubanga a livestock farmer in Hoima explains that he has lost 30 cows in a period of three weeks, adding that even the remaining few animals are on the verge of death.
Richard Kajungu, a herdsman at Kyehoro landing site in Kikuube, says that he has lost 35 cows to drought since April when they last received rain.
Richard Tumuhairwe, another farmer says that because of the current situation, they are finding it extremely difficult to look after their families.
Stephen Ninsiima, a cattle farmer in Kagadi says he lost 60 cows, which has compelled him to sell off the remaining animals.
Bunyoro experienced severe drought between December 2020 and January 2021, which affected hundreds of cattle farmers. During this period, farmers in the region lost more than 200 cattle due to shortage of pasture and water.
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