By Delicia Janneire | November 11, 2024
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha visited the riverine communities of Orealla and Siparuta in Region Six on Friday, where farmers and residents shared their concerns and highlighted the need for government assistance to improve agricultural practices and community infrastructure.
During the visit, residents requested several key interventions to address the challenges faced by the communities, including better access to water, planting materials, and farming infrastructure.
The requests also included the provision of shade houses, fish ponds, and improved road networks.
In response to these concerns, Minister Mustapha assured the communities that the government is committed to supporting them through various initiatives.
He pledged to improve access to water and promised to provide fish ponds and better road infrastructure.
These interventions, along with the implementation of shade houses, will be rolled out in the coming months.
For immediate support, the Minister confirmed that the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) will supply 20 tonnes of cassava to the residents, with distribution set to begin within the week.
He also announced that 12 shade houses will be constructed in the area, with young community members involved in the process.
The shade houses will provide opportunities for increased crop production, helping residents earn a sustainable income.
The government also distributed seeds, planting materials, and other agricultural inputs to the communities during the Minister’s visit.
Additionally, each household will receive 20 Black Giant chicks to enhance local poultry production.
Minister Mustapha emphasized that subsistence farming is becoming outdated, and the government’s focus is now on increasing productivity through modern farming techniques.
He highlighted the need for a shift in mindset towards more sustainable and profitable agricultural practices.
To further support the fishing community, the Minister also announced plans to install solar-powered freezers, allowing fisherfolk to preserve their catch and reduce losses due to spoilage.