By Yang Ater Yang
Lakes state Parliamentary committee of Agriculture and Animal Resources, is optimistic of bumper harvest, this year, as a result of favorable rainfall.
Chairperson of the committee, Rafael Bang Mayor Achiek, voiced his observations after two-weeks assessment of agricultural and livestock conditions in eight counties of Lakes state.
According to MP. Achiek, the committee expects good harvests due to this year’s rains, which have positively impacted farming activities.
“This visit to all eight counties was essential for assessing the farms supported by our government and partners,” he said during media briefing on Thursday.
The assessment team included representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, Environment and Forestry, as well as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
The state legislator was impressed of outcome of the assessment.
“I am grateful to the state government for maintaining a stable security situation, allowing our people to work in the fields. We have seen improved production of groundnuts and other crops, despite some challenges. I urge the state and national governments to continue supporting agriculture, as it is the backbone of any economy.”
Mr. Joseph Majoch, one of the farmers highlighted critical gaps in agricultural resources, particularly the lack of machinery.
“Ox-plough farming is not efficient, and we need more traditional hoes or tractors to enhance our work,” he emphasized.
He called on the Lakes State government to provide tractors, noting that many areas require them for effective farming.
Gabriel Makuach Agregy, Director General of the Ministry of Animal Resources, Fisheries, and Tourism, confirmed the completion of the assessment tour across all eight counties.
He expressed concern over the lack of fishing equipment in areas like Awerial and Yirol, stating, “we will discuss how to support these communities to enhance their production.”
Makuach also noted the flooding impacting livestock, which has led to displacement and increased risk of disease.
“We have supplied vaccines to all counties and are planning to increase the quantity of medications and training for community animal health workers,” he added.
Bub Achiek, chairperson of the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC) in Lakes State, emphasized the importance of monitoring programs aimed at improving food security and livelihoods.
“Our mission was to oversee projects supported by humanitarian agencies,” he said, advocating for self-sufficiency among local farmers to reduce reliance on aid.
Marco Makur, FAO Deputy Head of Field Office in Rumbek, mentioned that the tour aimed to strengthen partnerships with organizations like Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA) and Help German, which implement emergency response programs.
He stressed the importance of supporting organized farming groups to effectively combat food insecurity.
The state Minister of Agriculture Poth Majak Daljang concluded the joint assessment, which began on September 6, 2024, by highlighting both the challenges and successes of large-scale farming in the region.
“This year, we’ve seen a significant increase in farming activities across Lakes State,” he noted, while also pointing out areas affected by flooding, particularly in Wulu, Rumbek East, and Yirol counties.