Youth in Yei River County, Central Equatoria State, have launched an ambitious agricultural initiative called Let’s Go Farming Marathon, aimed at reducing reliance on imported food and boosting local production.
The program, unveiled on Saturday, seeks to mobilise communities to engage in farming and address food insecurity in the area.
Speaking at the launch, the initiative’s chairperson, Andrew Diko, emphasised the need for self-sufficiency in food production.
“For years, many young people in Yei have been involved in activities that do not benefit them, including being used to fuel conflicts,” Diko said. “This year, we have decided to change that by focusing on farming.”
Diko explained that the program’s name, Let’s Go Farming Marathon, reflects the urgency and determination required to tackle food insecurity.
“We have wasted enough time and resources importing food. It pains me to see even basic vegetables like greens being brought in from Uganda,” he said. “This year, we want to ensure that all our food is produced locally in Yei.”
He also expressed gratitude to Central Equatoria State Governor Augustino Jadallah for supporting the initiative, which aims to encourage greater investment in agriculture across Yei River County.
The program has garnered praise from international and local stakeholders.
Joy Tumalu, a representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), commended the youth for their efforts, describing the initiative as a step toward transforming Yei into South Sudan’s breadbasket.
“Agriculture is a vital source of livelihood, and we encourage everyone to take up farming,” Tumalu said.
She also highlighted the FAO’s ongoing projects in Yei, which are designed to strengthen agricultural productivity and support local farmers.
Central Equatoria State’s Agriculture Minister, Lily Kafuki, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of farming in a country heavily reliant on food imports.
“When I learned about this initiative last October, I was thrilled. Agriculture is essential for our survival, and I commend the youth for taking this step,” Kafuki said.
She reaffirmed her ministry’s commitment to supporting the program and empowering young farmers.