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Greater Nebbi Development Agenda Aims to Transform West Nile Region Through Strategic Investments

Leaders across Uganda’s Greater Nebbi area—spanning Zombo, Nebbi, and Pakwach districts—are collaborating to unlock untapped investment opportunities under the Greater Nebbi Development Agenda (Mbegi Pi Gyeru Pacu).

This ambitious plan aligns with Uganda’s National Development Plan IV (NDP IV) and seeks to position the West Nile Sub-region as a hub for cross-border trade and sustainable development.

Strategic Development Goals

The agenda prioritizes critical sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, agriculture, and energy.

With West Nile’s strategic location bordering DR Congo, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic, leaders envision transforming the region into a thriving economic corridor.

Emilio Udongo Wathum, Chairman of the Greater Nebbi Development Forum, emphasized the unified vision: “This agenda unites our communities under a shared goal: prosperity through collaboration.”

Key Sectors for Growth

1. Agriculture & Agro-Processing
   The region’s abundant raw materials—coffee, cotton, avocados, and fish—offer immense potential for value addition.
   Samuel Ochaki, Zombo District’s Community Development Officer, urged locals to embrace small-scale processing initiatives like honey production and maize milling.
2. Infrastructure & Energy
   A recent connection to Uganda’s national grid has boosted energy access, paving the way for industrial parks like the upcoming Nyaravur-Angal facility in Nebbi District.
3. Cross-Border Trade
   Leveraging proximity to neighboring countries, leaders aim to attract investors seeking regional market access.

Community and Religious Involvement

Religious institutions are playing a pivotal role in poverty reduction. During the installation of Nebbi’s new bishop, Dr. Constantine Rupiny, churches pledged to enhance livelihood programs. “Poverty levels here remain high, but we’re committed to reversing this trend,” Dr. Rupiny stated.

Challenges and the Path Forward

While optimism grows, leaders warn against political interference. Pakwach LC V Chairman Steen Omitu stressed: “This agenda belongs to the people. Those seeking to disrupt it will face resistance.”

The final draft of the Greater Nebbi Development Agenda 2025 will undergo council approvals in Zombo, Nebbi, and Pakwach, with an official launch slated for April 2024 in Parombo Town Council.

Why This Matters

• Economic Impact: The plan could attract government and development partner funding, including support from organizations like the Uganda Investment Authority.
• Job Creation: Industrial parks and agro-processing initiatives promise employment for youth and women.
• Regional Integration: Enhanced infrastructure could strengthen ties with neighboring countries under initiatives like the East African Community.

Call to Action

Local leaders urge residents to engage with grassroots initiatives. Innocent Onega Godfrey, LC III Chairman of Paidha Town Council, emphasized: “Our unity will determine our success. Let’s prioritize progress over politics.”