Farmers in Alebu make first harvest through drip irrigation

Farmers in Alebu, Haikota sub-zone, who have been working on a 20-million Nakfa drip irrigation project, have made their first harvest.

Alebu, 2 April 2012- Farmers in Alebu, Haikota sub-zone, who have been working on a 20-million Nakfa drip irrigation project, have made their first harvest.

The farmers explained that such a modern method of farming, which enabled them to save themselves from extra labor and weeds, was introduced for the first time among the farmers in Gash-Barka region. They also stated that the method of farming facilitates double harvests a year.

Among the farmers, Ms Letina Beraki and Ms Kaltum Mohammed, owners of vegetable and cereal farms, lauded the Government for implementing such an innovative and effective agricultural project in the area.

Mr. Mahmoud Mohammed Adem and Mr. Mohammed Daud, on the other hand, expressed appreciation for the Government’s initiative to introduce an incorporated and productive approach of farming, which has assisted them to improve their livelihoods and make advancement in production level.

Mr. Yonas Yosef, head of the Agriculture Ministry’s branch in Haikota sub-zone, who said that the project was aimed at supporting low-income families, said that 40 hectares of the project were allocated to 160 farmers at the ratio of ¼ hectare for household.

He further expressed that the farmers are cultivating green animal feed aimed at enhancing the production of milk and that a 24-hours electricity supply facility has been put in place at the area.