The German development agency GIZ has provided essential tools and equipment to the Yei Crop Training Centre to revive tractor services for farmers in Yei River County. This initiative is part of the Community-Driven Rural Development (CDRD) project, aiming to support land preparation ahead of the upcoming planting seasons. The equipment includes an air compressor, a mobile diesel welding generator, mechanical toolboxes, and personal protective gear.
Years of conflict and inadequate maintenance facilities had rendered many tractors in Yei inoperable, while the few remaining operational machines struggled to meet demand from farmers. GIZ reported that the provided equipment will support servicing and field repairs for eight tractors operating across Yei County. This development is expected to significantly alleviate the challenges faced by farmers in accessing tractor services.
Local officials have welcomed the equipment, emphasizing its potential to enhance tractor services for farmers. David Amule, administrator of the Yei Crop Training Centre, expressed his gratitude for the equipment, stating that its availability would enable the centre to resume more reliable tractor services. Isaac Asiki, director of agriculture in the county Agriculture Department, urged those responsible to put the equipment into immediate use and ensure its proper maintenance.
The impact of this initiative is expected to be substantial, with GIZ estimating that repairing the tractors could help at least 3,000 farmers expand the area they cultivate. The serviced machinery is anticipated to bring more than 10,000 hectares of land into cultivation. This development aligns with the goals of the CDRD project, which seeks to support rural development in South Sudan.
The CDRD project, implemented by GIZ on behalf of Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, is co-funded by the European Union and the Netherlands. As part of this project, GIZ will also provide training for tractor operators and farmers in the use of agricultural machinery for ploughing, harrowing, and sowing. This training is expected to enhance the skills of farmers and operators, ensuring the effective use of the tractors.
One farmer had previously cited a pressing need for tractor services, having been 18th on a waiting list for tractor services. He was informed that the tractor assigned to his farm had broken down, despite being promised ploughing within three days. The availability of the equipment and the resumption of reliable tractor services are expected to address such challenges, enabling farmers to prepare their land in a timely manner.
In conclusion, the provision of equipment by GIZ to the Yei Crop Training Centre marks a significant step towards revitalizing tractor services for farmers in Yei River County. With the potential to support 3,000 farmers and bring over 10,000 hectares of land into cultivation, this initiative is poised to make a positive impact on agricultural productivity in the region.
Key points
- GIZ provides equipment to Yei Crop Training Centre to repair tractors for 3,000 farmers.
- The initiative aims to bring over 10,000 hectares of land into cultivation.
- The project is co-funded by the European Union and the Netherlands.
