George Busika, a 35-year-old man with a physical disability from Namwawu Main Village, Naposhi Parish, Bushika Sub-county in Bududa District, once viewed farming as a means of survival rather than prosperity. As a husband and father, he struggled to meet his family's basic needs because his small vegetable garden only produced enough food for household consumption. Limited resources, traditional farming methods, and barriers associated with disability prevented him from realizing farming as a viable business.
In July 2025, George was identified through the Inclusive Climate Change Adaptation (ICCA) Project implemented by the National Union of Disabled Persons of Uganda (NUDIPU) with support from the Norwegian Association of Disabled (NAD). Through practical Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) training and continuous technical support from NUDIPU, the District Union, Bududa district Natural officer staff, George gained the skills and confidence to adopt improved farming practices.
He established a quarter (¼) hectare of tomatoes and half (½) a hectare of cabbages, earning UGX 1,050,000 in a single season. He invested the income in two goats (UGX 300,000), onion seed (UGX 100,000), poultry (UGX 50,000), paid school fees, supported his household, and reinvested in farming. Today, George has expanded to one hectare of onions, expecting to earn about UGX 3,000,000, while creating employment for community members who work on his farm.
-I never imagined farming could earn me this much in one season. My dream is to become a major supplier of onions in Bududa and beyond. Today, I know my disability is not a limitation. NUDIPU and NAD changed my mindset and gave me the confidence to turn farming into a business in addition to providing me with farm input, George says.
George's journey demonstrates how inclusive climate-smart agriculture can transform livelihoods. With practical skills, continuous mentorship, and equal opportunities, persons with disabilities can become successful entrepreneurs, create employment, and contribute meaningfully to resilient and inclusive community development.
