Oyster Nut Farming as a Pathway to Better Health and Economic Empowerment in Bugiri & Mayuge districts.

Tuesday, 24 February, 2026

Photo: Florence Biriwaali, a resident of Biugiri district, Nakyegereike village proudly shows off one of her oyster nut plants which is almost ready for harvest. Credit: Lawrence Mulondo

In the quiet farming communities of Bulhidha & Bukabooli Sub-counties in Bugiri & Mayuge Districts, a new initiative is transforming lives by combining economic empowerment with improved access to health services.

Through the Social Sustainability Fund project funded by Fiber Foods and implemented in partnership with Amref Health Africa in Uganda and Busaino Fruits & Herbs, women and young people are being supported to grow oyster nuts, locally known as “Kulekula” as a sustainable source of nutrition and income while gaining access to essential Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services. The project, which began in November 2025, targets vulnerable households in Bugiri and Mayuge districts, areas affected by high teenage pregnancy rates and limited access to accurate reproductive health information.

During a recent field visit, district health leaders highlighted the urgent need for integrated interventions. According to the Assistant District Health Officer for Maternal and child Health, Sister Keeya Esther, teenage pregnancy stands at 23%, driven largely by socio-economic vulnerability and limited awareness.

“The social lifestyle in these fishing communities contributes to the high cases of teenage pregnancies and HIV. When fishermen sell fish and get money, some target young girls, who are often easy to manipulate due to poverty.” Sister Keeya.

To address these challenges, the project adopts an innovative model where midwives work directly with farmer groups. Through structured group meetings, community members receive guidance on nutrition, family planning, maternal health, and referral services. At a community meeting attended during the visit, farmers attached to Byobona Tibyowaya Womens’ Group demonstrated how oyster nuts are cultivated, from soaking seeds before planting to drying the harvest for market. Fibre Foods has committed to purchasing the produce, ensuring reliable market access for farmers.

Photo: Moses Iyereget (standing right) & Sister Birungi Sumaya, a midwife attached to Muterere HC III and supervisor for Byobona Tibyowaya Womens’ Group delivering a health talk on child spacing to group members. Credit: Lawrence Mulondo

Beyond income generation, the project is also closing knowledge gaps around nutrition. Oyster nuts are rich in nutrients beneficial for pregnant and lactating mothers, and health education sessions are helping communities better understand these benefits.

Moses Iyereget, a project officer under SSF said, “Many families already grow oyster nuts but lack knowledge on how to prepare them properly. Some treat them as snacks instead of incorporating them into balanced meals.”

The project further integrates safeguarding and social protection interventions, including strengthening referral pathways for survivors of gender-based violence and addressing child labor risks in farming communities.

“As Amref, our role is to improve household health. We focus on access to family planning, antenatal care, safe deliveries, prevention of teenage pregnancies and gender-based violence, improved nutrition, and ensuring children stay in school rather than working in gardens. We reduce the distance between health facilities and communities.” Moses added

In conclusion to the meeting, Lilian K. Mugisha, the Communications Manager at Amref Health Africa in Uganda, urged the group to appoint a health focal person to enforce saving for healthcare. She also encouraged the group members to ensure their young girls between 9-14 get the HPV vaccine to reduce the risk of cervical cancer.

As implementation progresses, Amref Health Africa in Uganda plans to conduct follow-up visits to track improvements in health-seeking behavior, nutrition outcomes, and household incomes. By linking livelihoods to health services, the Social Sustainability Fund project is demonstrating how community-driven solutions can sustainably improve wellbeing.

Voices from Local Leaders and group members

“Now that women earn money from oyster nuts, they contribute to household needs… This has reduced dependence and conflict.” LC1 chairperson Bulidha Sub-county recounting changes in social dynamics.

“We now understand the nutritional benefits of “Kulekula” and have committed to taking full advantage of it both at home and as a source of income to provide basic needs for our children.” Madina Kagoya, Byobona Women Farmers Group chairperson.

Photo credits: Lawrence Mulondo- Journalist at NewVision

By Communications at Amref Uganda