Upper Nile farmers are urging the state to bolster their efforts in boosting production and productivity to ensure food security for citizens, especially in light of the significant influx of returnees and refugees from the Sudan crisis.
Simon Kiir, leader of the Upper Nile State Farmers Union, emphasized to Radio Tamazuj on Wednesday the necessity for state support. The union has devised an agricultural plan for 2024-2025, focusing on expanding agricultural areas across many districts. Kiir stressed that providing farmers with necessary inputs is paramount.
Kiir expressed, “The key to overcoming challenges lies in boosting agricultural output. Our farmers are eager, but they lack crucial support.” He emphasized the urgency of supplying production inputs before June for this year’s agricultural season to be successful.
Kiir remains hopeful that both the national and state governments will step in to support local farmers in increasing production this season. “The president’s recent emphasis on the importance of agriculture is a promising start,” he remarked.
As the deputy of a state committee, Kiir sees this as a significant move that underscores the government’s commitment to advancing agriculture. “The formation of the state committee is a positive step, indicating the government’s seriousness about agriculture,” he emphasized.
Kiir highlighted that the state committee, led by the governor, has commenced discussions with state officials in Juba to strategize for a successful agricultural season. He urged local farmers to actively participate in agricultural projects to boost food production in the region.