The Governor of South Sudan’s Eastern Lakes State, Mangar Buong Aluenge on Friday paid a motivational visit to small scale vegetable farmers situated around Lake Yirol.
The deputy state governor, David Mayom Riak and a number of cabinet ministers accompanied Manger during the tour.
Manyang Luk Lueth, the acting Agriculture minister, said the state governor applauded the small scale farmers for the tedious work they do.
“Hon. Mangar Buong Aluenge has been pronouncing to our people the power of agriculture. Agriculture has no season, but you have a source of water like Lake Yirol which you are now using to irrigate these vegetables,” said Manyang.
On his part, the governor said they will prioritize agriculture.
“My top priority to you my people is Agriculture which is a prime source of livelihood to us Dinka community and to the Republic of South Sudan as a whole. I came to congratulate you on the agricultural activities you have been doing through irrigation in dry season. I usually tell our people that you should cultivate even in dry season if you have water sources,” said Mangar.
He added, “I call upon women and children who are still in their houses to embark on agriculture, through irrigation in order to facilitate their financial needs even paying the school fees. I know very well a school child may not ask for school fees if he or she works here. Self-reliance is the best,” he stressed.
Despite the huge agricultural potential South Sudan possesses, only about 5 percent of the country’s arable land is reportedly cultivated.