Minister urges farmers to make optimum use of micro-dams and water reservoirs

The Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Arefaine Berhe, urged members of the farming community to make good use of available water resources in nearby water reservoirs and micro-dams, and thereby promote vegetable farming and irrigation farming so as to harvest twice a  year.

Adi-Tekelezan, 19 March 2011 – The Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Arefaine Berhe, urged members of the farming community to make good use of available water resources in nearby water reservoirs and micro-dams, and thereby promote vegetable farming and irrigation farming so as to harvest twice a  year.

In the course of a visit to Adi-Tekelezan sub-zone, the Minister, accompanied with other government officials and experts, visited the Setaimess micro-dam and the plains in Dekemhare administrative area and observed the ongoing agricultural and development activities. Mr. Arefaine explained that there are plans to cultivate fruits and vegetables that are suitable in the area.

He further highlighted the significance of micro-dams and water reservoirs being constructed across the nation in enriching underground water resource. The Minister called on farmers to work diligently in preventing silt deposition in the micro-dams.

Noting that the Ministry is striving as regards making available seeds and cattle that conform to the weather of the country, Mr. Arefaine urged farmers to boost agricultural output and improve their living standard. He also stressed the need for the farmers to enhance participation in animal husbandry, bee farming and poultry, besides preserving wildlife resource.

The Administrator of Anseba region, Mr. Gergis Girmai, indicated on his part that the necessary agricultural preparations are underway before the onset of the rainy season.