Top officials in Jonglei’s Ministry of Agriculture said better farm yields are expected this crop season compared to last year.

Atem Gak Atem, who heads the agricultural mechanization department in the state, told Radio Tamazuj on Thursday that individuals and families have taken farming activities seriously this year, an indicator that the agricultural output will be higher than last year.

Atem further said rain distribution this year has been friendly to crop growth: “Every year in the past this month (June), rain used to be too much but since the beginning of the month, the rain is neither too much nor scarce and I can say the rain distribution is fair,” said Atem.

The official pointed out that another contributing factor is the low level of water in the River Nile. However he expressed concern over anticipated floods in Boma and Akobo States.

Atem revealed that the state agriculture ministry has revived Akur and Gaak plantations to ensure food security and supply to local markets, while citing minimal cases of pest invasions.

He advised local farmers to plant and preserve their traditional sorghum species which are good for the soil. The official revealed that there is a food gap in the market and encouraged the local farmers with capital to venture into large-scale farming.

Mary Achol, an old woman who planted maize and vegetables on the backyards of her compound in Bor, said her maize is growing healthier.