Lakes state farmers receive seeds

March 15, 2012 (RUMBEK) – The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in collaboration with the Lakes state ministry of agriculture started disturbing seeds to over 200 farmers in Rumbek East county of Lakes state on Tuesday.

The seed distribution in Atiaba payam [district] of Rumbek East county was attended by minister of agriculture, Eli Magok Manyol, partner agencies and farmers.

Manyol said “we do not want these seeds to be eaten, we told them point blank yesterday – we will check. We will send in the extension workers to go and measure  out every field that has been planted with these seeds.”

He added that “of course we know the farmers by name, their families, their plots” and therefore those found to have not planted their seeds would be identified.

He also said that if the state’s citizens work together its fertile soil could produce far more of their food.

The Lakes state governor, Chol Tong Mayay, said he was committed to improving the agricultural sector as well as addressing the security situation, in a state which is plagued by inter-ethnic conflict and rebellion.

“Education, agriculture and security are basic foundation that we must improved within this year,“ said Chol.

(ST)