President Kiir pushes for local food production, instructs supply of tractors
President Kiir underlined the importance of empowering local farmers to increase food production, pledging to give them tools for farming
By Aguok Chok
President Salva Kiir has emphasized on the need for South Sudan to stop depending on imported food and focus on producing food locally. “We must shift away from reliance on importing food,” the President said, as he directed the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to supply tractors and farm equipment to farmers across the country.
The President made this directive during a meeting with Unity State Governor Riek Bim Top in Juba. The Governor had briefed the President on the general situation in Unity State, including the progress of agricultural activities in the region.
President Kiir underlined the importance of empowering local farmers to increase food production. He said that by giving farmers the tools they need—such as tractors and other equipment—they will be able to produce food on a large scale and help reduce the country’s dependence on expensive food imports.
“Our people must be supported to grow what they eat,” he said. “If we continue to import food, our economy will remain weak. But if we produce our own food, we will create jobs, build peace, and grow stronger as a nation.”
The President also said that supporting agriculture is key to national stability. He noted that many youth can find work in farming if they are given proper tools and training. “This is the time to invest in our land and in our people,” he added.
Governor Riek Bim Top reported that Unity State is mostly stable, though he acknowledged a few isolated cases of cattle raiding. He praised the efforts of local leaders who are working to encourage peace by talking to armed youth.
“Community leaders are engaging in dialogue with armed youth to encourage them to surrender their weapons to the government,” the Governor said. He explained that this is part of broader efforts to ensure safety for all citizens and to allow farming activities to continue without fear.
President Kiir welcomed the Governor’s report and reaffirmed the national government’s full support for both peace and development efforts. He said the Ministry of Agriculture must act quickly to ensure that tractors and farm tools are delivered to farmers in all regions, especially those ready to plant crops.
“Let us help our farmers grow food for the country,” the President said. “This is how we build peace and progress by working the land and feeding our people.”
The Ministry of Agriculture is expected to begin the supply process soon, focusing on states that have shown progress in agriculture. Tractors will be given to both individual farmers and farmer groups, with the goal of increasing food production and reducing the burden of food imports.
As South Sudan continues its journey toward peace and development, the call from President Kiir serves as a reminder of the importance of self-reliance, especially in food production.
“Let us help our farmers grow food for the country. This is how we build peace and progress,” President Salva Kiir.
