Active participation of institutions and farmers vital to achieve food security: Minister
The Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Arefaine Berhe, stressed the need for enhanced contribution of all government institutions and farming communities in development programs towards achieving food security. He made the remarks at an assessment meeting of the Ministry’s branch office in the Northern Red Sea region.
Massawa, 20 January 2011 – The Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Arefaine Berhe, stressed the need for enhanced contribution of all government institutions and farming communities in development programs towards achieving food security. He made the remarks at an assessment meeting of the Ministry’s branch office in the Northern Red Sea region.
Pointing out that the importance of farmers’ experience in outlining agricultural infrastructure facilities, Mr. Arefaine highlighted the contribution of soil and water conservation programs under implementations on the part of farmers in raising productivity. He called on farmers to engage in the production of milk and honey as well as poultry and bee breeding.
In a report he presented at the meeting, Mr. Tesfit Gebregziabher, head of the branch office in the region, pointed out that a number of farmlands which were eroded due to river waters have been renovated at substantial expenditure, and commended the popular participation which the people and members of the Defence Force demonstrated. He went on to say that various activities including the distribution of select seeds, livestock vaccination and training course to farmers were undertaken.
Moreover, the report stated that terraces, embankments and roads were repaired through the Summer Work Program, in addition to the distribution of 200 bee hives and 3,000 livestock to needy citizens.
The Administrator of the Northern Red Sea region, Ms. Tsigereda Woldegergis, reminded farmers to reinforce their endeavors without expecting undue support from the government.
The participants of the meeting adopted a number of recommendations, including expanding livestock vaccination program and the deployment of machinery.