Turning Disability into Opportunity Through Farming Mr. Angutoko Ben, a 29-year-old resident of Obakua Cell, Otrevu Ward, Leju Town Council in Terego District, is proving that disability does not define a person's ability to succeed. Despite being visually impaired, he has built a thriving farming enterprise that supports his family, creates opportunities for others, and inspires his community.
Mr. Angutoko's educational journey came to an end in Senior Four after his visual impairment made it increasingly difficult to continue with his studies. Although this was a significant setback, he refused to let it determine his future. Instead, he turned to agriculture—a livelihood he had been familiar with from an early age. While growing up, he cultivated tobacco, using the income to contribute to his school fees from Senior One through Senior Four.
In 2017, Mr. Angutoko ventured into farming as a full-time business. He began cultivating maize and cassava, gradually expanding his production despite limited resources. As the population increased and access to family land became constrained, he adapted by renting farmland to continue growing his enterprise. Today, Mr. Angutoko cultivates two acres of maize intercropped with soybeans, including a quarter-acre of rented land that costs UGX 75,000 per season. His most recent harvest yielded 11½ bags of maize and 50 kilograms of soybeans. He sold 2½ bags of maize, using the proceeds to pay school fees, rent additional land, hire labourers, and meet essential household needs.
The income generated from farming has transformed his family's livelihood. He has purchased a motorcycle (Senke) to transport farm produce more efficiently, reducing transportation challenges and improving market access. He has also paid school fees for his dependants, invested in livestock by purchasing five goats, and started a poultry enterprise to diversify his sources of income.
Beyond farming, Mr. Angutoko serves as the General Secretary of the Terego District Association of the Blind, where he advocates for the rights and inclusion of persons with visual impairments. His leadership demonstrates that persons with disabilities can make meaningful contributions to community development when given opportunities and support. Looking ahead, Mr. Angutoko plans to rent two additional acres of land to expand the cultivation of maize, cassava, and soybeans.
His vision is to increase production, improve household income, and strengthen his family's economic resilience. Despite his achievements, he continues to face significant challenges. Limited capital restricts his ability to hire adequate labour, while unpredictable weather patterns and changing seasons often result in reduced crop yields.
Nevertheless, his determination, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit continue to drive him forward. Mr. Angutoko Ben's journey is a powerful example of how resilience, hard work, and inclusive opportunities can transform lives.
His story demonstrates that with determination and access to productive resources, persons with disabilities can overcome barriers, achieve economic independence, and become role models within their communities.
