The residents of the Ruweng Administrative Area (RAA) have emphasized the urgent need for modern agricultural tools and skills to combat the escalating food insecurity.
They expressed the sentiments as they marked the World Food Day, in the state capital, Pariang, on Friday.
The secretary of the local farmers’ union, Mading Chol, said the area has the agricultural potential and if farmers were equipped with modern tools, they could produce enough to fight food insecurity.
“The land in Ruweng can benefit all the people of South Sudan and the neighboring counties like Sudan, Kenya, and Uganda if we have modern tools. We need modern technologies like tractors and their equipment,” Chol said.
Despite the fertile soils, local farmers faced significant challenges, including poor road connectivity with Juba.
Deputy Ruweng Paramount Chief Malual Jou pointed to the destruction of pests, particularly the weaverbirds, saying that local farmers had cultivated vast areas this year but were suffering from harvest losses.
“The weaverbirds have been disturbing farmers a lot. They attack crops, especially cereals when they are about to be ready. The farmers cultivated enough land this year but the birds have been attacking,” Jou said.
FAO Country Director Meshack Oguna Malo announced plans for an aerial spray to combat the weaverbirds.
“Today, I want to assure you that a plane will arrive for the spraying of these pests. We will work together to ensure that the hard work of farmers does not go to waste,” Malo stated.
RAA Chief Administrator Tiob Monyluak De Diran emphasized the role of food security in sustaining livelihoods and fostering economic growth. He called for increased support from both the government and the international community.
“Food is not just a basic human right; it is a fundamental right. We must invest in sustainable farming practices,” he urged.
The World Food Day commemorates the global struggle against hunger, with FAO studies revealing that over 2.8 billion people currently cannot afford healthy, nutritious food regularly. This has resulted in severe malnutrition and obesity across socio-economic classes worldwide.
The World Food Day, established by the FAO in 1979 and celebrated annually on October 16, aims to raise awareness about hunger and promote efforts to ensure food security for all. This year’s theme is: “Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future.”