By Yiep Joseph
Central Equatoria state government launched the “Let’s Go Farming Marathon” initiative over the weekend in Yei River County to promote teamwork in agriculture.
According to a statement from the Central Equatoria State (CES) governor’s press unit, the vibrant sports activities attracted participants from various payams to Yei town. The event was officially inaugurated by Augustino Jadalla Kamilo Wani, the Governor of Central Equatoria State.
Spearheaded by the county commissioner and local youth, the initiative aims to enhance local farming practices and mobilize the community for large-scale agricultural engagement.
The inauguration began with a marathon in Yei town early in the morning, where several athletes participated.
The marathon served to raise public awareness of the crucial role agriculture and sports play in uniting communities and mobilizing people for development.
While addressing the crowd, CES Governor Jadalla said that the initiative aligns with the state’s vision for agricultural development and food security.
The governor urged every family to embrace agriculture, adding that it is one of the ways for ending dependence on expensive imported food products.
He expressed that the marathon carries a lot of messages that would promote peace and teamwork toward farming.
“Today, we are not just running; we are planting seeds of change—literally and symbolically. Agriculture is the backbone of our communities, our economy, and our survival. Yet, as times change, so must our approach to farming. This marathon is more than a race; it is a movement,” he said.
He stressed the need to equip farmers with knowledge, equipment, and training to ensure fertile and productive lands for future generations.
“We will support smallholder farmers, encourage youth participation in agriculture, and invest in innovative solutions for climate-resilient farming. Our goal is to make farming not just a profession, but a passion and a promise for the future,” he added.
Lilly Kapuki Jurkin, the State Minister of Agriculture, Environment, and Forestry, assured the people of Yei that her ministry would provide technical support for the initiative.
She also encouraged youth to participate in tree-planting efforts to combat climate change.
“We are developing a policy to transition the state to mechanized agriculture. We are establishing County Agriculture Mechanized Centers to help our citizens cultivate on a large scale,” Kapuki said.
In his New Year’s address, Kiir reiterated government efforts to boost food production in the country.
“The Ministry of Roads and Bridges is to rehabilitate and construct roads leading to Western Equatoria to enable farmers to access the market,” he said.
“In the year 2025, the government will prioritize agriculture to enhance our food security. I am therefore directing the Ministry of Agriculture to double efforts to support the farmers across the country to improve yield. The Ministry of Roads and Bridges to rehabilitate and construct roads leading to Western Equatoria to enable farmers to access the market,” he said.
Kiir expressed that the rehabilitation of the roads leading to Western Equatoria state would ensure that Juba and other neighbouring towns received food items produced within the country.
The president also directed the army to provide security on the roads to ensure the safety of farmers and travellers in general.