The newly appointed minister of agriculture and forestry in Yei River State says he targets to reduce dependency on food aid by enhancing mass crop production.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Monday, John Kenyi Abiyaza said he would empower local farmers with tools, seeds, and training to help fight food insecurity in Yei.

“We want to embark on extension programs and promoting seed production. We don’t want to have seeds imported from outside because some seeds are not suitable to the weather pattern here,” he said.

Kenyi pointed out that the government is working to restore peace and stability to allow farmers to return to their farms. He noted that they will reintroduce cash crop farming in the state and invited investors.

“One of our policies in Yei River is not to rely on relief and handouts. We want to engage in coffee production, Yei has been known to produce high-quality coffee products in the world and we want to encourage coffee partners to return to Yei,” he added.

Yei River State is one of the areas known as the food basket for South Sudan.