South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Waure Eddy
Western Equatoria is poised to enhance food security and promote rural development through the launch of a new seed company initiative.
The Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Environment, Letecia Benito underscored the government’s commitment to facilitating private investment aimed at creating jobs and reducing youth involvement in criminal activities.
During a visit to Acting Governor H.E. Justin Joseph Marona, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Environment, Letecia Benito, welcomed a representative from Pro-Seed Company.
This new seed company initiative represents a crucial advancement in Western Equatoria’s efforts to achieve food self-sufficiency, stimulate rural economic growth, and empower youth. “We cannot employ everyone, but we can empower investors to create opportunities,” she emphasised.
Minister Benito introduced Mr. Oja as “a son of the soil,” whose return to Western Equatoria brings renewed hope for farmers and youth alike.
“We are fortunate to welcome a guest who introduces a promising project—a seed company that will benefit our farmers,” said the Minister. She reiterated the government’s role in fostering private sector investment to generate employment and mitigate youth criminality. “We cannot employ everyone, but we can empower investors to create opportunities,” she reiterated.
Mr. Isaac Oja, the finance head of Pro-Seed, outlined the company’s strategic shift from seed production to maize grain cultivation. Operating in the state since 2020, Pro-Seed now aims to mobilise farmers for commercial maize farming using hybrid seeds and tractors.
“Our goal is to reduce reliance on imports from Uganda and Tanzania by producing our own food,” Oja stated, describing Western Equatoria as “the food basket of South Sudan” and encouraging farmers to lead by example.
Acting Governor Marona expressed strong support for the initiative, noting its alignment with the state’s environmental and economic objectives.
“We are pleased with the company’s commitment to climate stability and tree protection,” he remarked.
Discussions also addressed the domestication of agro-industrial products and the potential for Western Equatoria to supply both regional and international markets.
Justin Marona indicated that the initiative could significantly enhance the state’s GDP and living standards. He acknowledged local concerns regarding fertiliser use but praised the technical explanations provided by experts.
“We need organic products that can reach markets like Dubai,” he stated, advocating for a balance between productivity and sustainability.
The evening concluded with a collective call for peace, reconciliation, and youth empowerment. “As a government, we are dedicated to stabilising peace and supporting initiatives that uplift our communities,” said Marona.
This collaboration between Pro-Seed and the government heralds a new era for agriculture in Western Equatoria, one founded on innovation, sustainability, and shared prosperity.
