Lakes State agriculture minister appeals for urgent food assistance

By Jenifer James 

The Lakes State Minister of Agriculture and Food Security has called on local and international humanitarian organizations to support efforts to address food insecurity in the State.

This appeal comes after the minister identified a significant gap in food accessibility within the State.

In an exclusive interview over the weekend, Poth Majak Daljang, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, highlighted the challenges caused by flooding which has hindered farming activities in several areas.

 “Food insecurity is a real issue in some parts of Lakes State due to the flooding. Last year, communities cultivated extensively for both home and market consumption, but this year floods have devastated parts of the state, leaving people dependent on humanitarian aid,” said Daljing.

Daljing urged the worsening food situation requires urgent attention to prevent thousands of people getting hungry. 

“We need rapid intervention to provide emergency food supplies to the affected populations while we work on long-term solutions. Without this support, many families will continue to struggle to meet their basic needs,” he said.

Daljing emphasized the importance of addressing the underlying causes of food insecurity in the State. 

He also emphasized the need for investment in flood-resistant food crops and infrastructure to ensure that communities recover and become resilient.

Mary Nyakook Abiel, a widow and resident of Pacong Payam in Rumbek East County, shared her struggles with the harsh realities of life in her community. 

She explained that food scarcity is a constant challenge, with many families going for days without a meal due to their reliance on humanitarian organizations.

“Life here is hard; sometimes people go days without food because we depend so much on these organizations although we cultivate every year, this year we lost everything to floods and had no choice but to rely on aid,” said Abiel.

Abiel emphasized the emotional toll the situation has taken on families.

“As a mother it hurts deeply to see your children hungry, asking for food you don’t have. We just pray for better days,” she said.