Farmers in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State have voiced concern about the shortage of seeds and funds as they prepare for the upcoming agricultural season.

In interviews conducted by Radio Tamazuj over the weekend, farmers highlighted the persistent challenges they face, including open grazing that damages crops and difficulties accessing seeds and financial support.

Anyar Kuol Akot, a renowned farmer from Aweil South County in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, identified key challenges such as open grazing, lack of seeds, and financial resources. “We farmers are facing numerous challenges. Animals destroy our crops due to open grazing, and many struggle to access seeds and financial aid,” said Kuol.

He emphasized the urgent need for government support, suggesting collaboration with organizations such as the Agricultural Bank, UNFAO, and GIZ to address the agricultural needs of South Sudan.

Ayak Abdurrahman, a female farmer from Malualbaai Payam in Aweil East County, emphasized the critical importance of seeds and food items for farmers in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State. She also highlighted the necessity for modern fertilizers to enhance food production at the grassroots level.

Abdurrahman stated, “In my opinion, farmers in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State urgently require a variety of seeds and food supplies to ensure that everyone, including returnees and refugees recently arrived from Sudan, can participate in local food production.”

She pointed out that the high prices in local markets have made it difficult for farmers to afford seeds, fertilizers, and other materials needed for cultivation across different farming zones.

Aweil North County Commissioner Kiir Chan Wol expressed that despite the scarcity of seeds and financial assistance, the people of his county are prepared for the agricultural season and are eager to pursue their farming activities.

“There is significant readiness among the citizens for the agricultural season. However, local farmers are holding onto their small seed reserves, and there are no indications that seed donations from humanitarian organizations will be provided to them,” Chan stated.

Meanwhile, Awaya Awaya, the Agriculture Minister of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, mentioned that the agricultural season received attention last month (March) with a visit from the national deputy minister of agriculture and representatives from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.

“The agriculture season was officially launched last month (March), with Deputy National Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Lily Albino Akol and the Country Director for UN FAO in attendance,” stated the minister.

“Humanitarian organizations, primarily FAO and other partners, will lead the distribution of seeds to local farmers. This distribution will take place within this month (April), targeting vulnerable farmers specifically, rather than all farmers,” Awaya Awaya explained.