South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Waure Eddy
In a significant gathering that united farmers, government officials, development partners, and international agencies, Western Equatoria State celebrated World Food Day 2025 in Yambio. Held under the global theme, “Hand in Hand for Better Food and Better Future,” the event was both a celebration of resilience and a call for peace and support amid ongoing insecurity.
The Acting Governor of Western Equatoria State, H.E. Justin Joseph Marona, praised the unwavering commitment of farmers to cultivate the land despite the challenges posed by conflict and displacement.
“Guns are still speaking where seeds should be growing,” the Governor declared. “We want our farmers to cultivate in peace, without fear, and without disruption.”
He urged armed groups to lay down their weapons and embrace dialogue, emphasising that peace is essential for food security and community development.
Marona also called on humanitarian partners to urgently assist vulnerable communities in Mundri, Kediba, Nagero, and Tambura, where food insecurity remains severe.
Dennis Bounder-Jones, FAO’s Field Coordinator for Western Equatoria, marked the organisation’s 80th anniversary by reaffirming its commitment to combating hunger and promoting sustainable agriculture.
“This year’s theme is not just a slogan—it is a call to action,” Bounder-Jones stated. “Here in Western Equatoria, we face both challenges and opportunities. Climate change, conflict, and limited infrastructure are real issues, but so is the strength of our partnerships.”
He highlighted FAO’s ongoing collaboration with South Sudan’s government and local authorities, noting efforts to improve nutrition, distribute farming inputs, and build resilience within communities.
John Kenyi, representing the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Environment, emphasised that hunger can be defeated through unity, innovation, and inclusive policies.
“The future of our food system lies in the strength of our farmers, the vision of our leaders, and the solidarity of our communities,” Kenyi stated.
He outlined the ministry’s initiatives, from climate-smart agriculture training to livestock health support, and praised the dedication of extension workers and county agriculture departments.
Kenyi urged partners to continue supporting farmers across both public and private sectors, stressing that sustainable food systems require cross-border collaboration.
Speaking on behalf of farmers, Mr. John Kumbonyeki delivered a passionate plea for improvements in security and infrastructure.
“We have the capacity. We have the land. We have the knowledge. What we lack is peace,” he said. “Let this day mark the beginning of a new chapter—where farmers are protected, supported, and empowered.”
Kumbonyeki called for repaired bridges, accessible roads, and better market connectivity to ensure that agricultural produce reaches consumers across South Sudan.
As the celebration concluded, the message was clear: Western Equatoria’s farmers are the backbone of the region’s resilience. However, to unlock their full potential, peace must prevail, partnerships must deepen, and policies must prioritise the people who feed the nation.