Government’s 44 Billion Tochi Project Fails to Deliver for Oyam
Written by Ambrose Okwanga on March 27, 2025
The Tochi Irrigation Scheme, a 44 billion shilling project commissioned in 2019, has so far failed to benefit the Oyam District Local Government in any meaningful way.
Speaking to our reporter, Chris Ongom, the Vice Chairperson of LC5 Oyam District and leader of government business, expressed disappointment that the district has not gained any local revenue from the project.
According to Ongom, the project remains incomplete. Essential work, such as clearing anthills, was never finished, and water does not flow to some parts of the gardens, leaving them dry. Additionally, the road within the scheme, which was meant to facilitate the transportation of produce, is in poor condition.
“The government just wasted billions here and didn’t finish the work. As a district, there is nothing we can do about it,” Ongom stated.
He further revealed that out of the 1,242 acres designated for the scheme, less than 50 percent is being utilized. Despite each farmer receiving a plot of land, much of it remains idle due to challenges beyond their control, challenges that require heavy machinery to address.
When the government initiated the Tochi Irrigation Scheme, they anticipated significant economic benefits, improved livelihoods for the local community, and enhanced food security. However, the project’s shortcomings have prevented these goals from being realized.
Recognizing these issues, the Ministry of Water and Environment recently introduced a Korean firm to the district, tasked with rectifying the existing problems.
Ongom confirmed that a memorandum of understanding has been signed with the firm, which has committed to leveling the land to ensure a smooth water flow.
“We have also allocated them a portion of land to establish a seed multiplication center, which will provide farmers with seeds and seedlings,” Ongom added.
He emphasized that this public-private partnership is the district’s last hope for salvaging the irrigation scheme.
“If this initiative fails, there is nothing more we can do, as the entire government would have failed on this project,” he stressed.
