By Emmanuel Mandella
Over 20 farmers in Naandi Payam, Ezo County, have completed a two-day intensive training on crop production and record keeping, aimed at strengthening food security in Western Equatoria State.
The training, organized by the Catholic Organization for Development and Peace (CODEP) in partnership with Uniting to End Poverty – Caritas Scotland, brought together 25 farmers from across the Payam to become Trainers of Trainers (TOTs). The trained farmers will now transfer the knowledge to others in their communities to enhance agricultural productivity.
Speaking to the media, Mr. Gibson Kamilo Bakuyo, Program Manager of CODEP, emphasized on the significance of the training, stating that many farmers in Western Equatoria State lack knowledge in proper crop production techniques and record keeping.
“The purpose of this training is to equip farmers with modern agricultural skills and financial management to ensure sustainable farming. Most farmers in the state do not keep records, which affects their ability to plan, secure loans, and expand their farming activities,” he said.
According to Bakuyo, the program, which began in 2024, has benefiting over 50 farmers in Yambio and Ezo Counties, focusing on young farmers to strengthen the agricultural sector.
Fr. Simon Mizeredi, the Parish Priest of St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Naandi, lauded the Catholic Bishop of Tombura-Yambio Diocese, Barani Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala, for supporting the initiative and for allowing it to reach grassroots communities.
“This project is a blessing to our farmers. Many have struggled due to lack of knowledge, and now they are well equipped to produce more food. I encourage the organizers to extend this program to other areas so that more farmers can benefit,” said Fr. Mizeredi.
Martin Wade, the Chairperson of Wenepai Farmers Group in Naandi, welcomed the training and urged government to improve security so that farmers can work without fear.
“We have the potential to produce food not only for Western Equatoria but also for neighboring countries. However, insecurity remains a major challenge. The government must ensure farmers can access their fields safely,” he emphasized.
On his part, Marcelo Constantino Babitimo, Agricultural Consultant in the State’s Ministry of Agriculture, highlighted the long-term benefits of the training.
“This initiative will significantly contribute to food security in the state and beyond. With proper farming techniques and record keeping, farmers will increase their yields, reduce post-harvest losses, and attract better markets,” he said.
The training is expected to boost local food production, reduce dependency on food imports, and empower communities economically. Farmers who underwent the training will train others, and expand modern farming skills across the region.