Sudan's Agricultural Minister, Prof. Ismat Qureshi, has announced that the current agricultural season is successful, despite initial concerns. He stated that the final cultivated area has reached 21 million feddans, a 3-4 million feddan increase from the previous year. The minister made these remarks during a press conference in Omdurman, monitored by Radio Dabanga.
Minister Qureshi highlighted that the sector has overcome challenges, including uneven rainfall distribution and pest control. He noted that, despite harsh climate predictions, the agricultural sector has succeeded, with production expected to be at least on par with the previous season. The minister also mentioned that the targeted area for winter cultivation is 3.248 million feddans, with wheat covering 1 million feddans across various states and agricultural projects.
The minister discussed the challenges faced during the season, including uneven rainfall distribution and pest control. He stated that regions with rain-fed agriculture achieved good success rates, ranging from 77% to 88%. The minister also mentioned that the contract for aerial spraying and provision of pesticides and aircraft fuel has been secured.
In the eastern state of Kassala, the local authorities have reported an increase in cultivated areas. The state's agricultural committee announced that 6,337,670 feddans have been cultivated with various crops, exceeding the planned 7.6 million feddans. The committee also reported that 83% of the planned area has been cultivated, with 4,168,930 feddans dedicated to corn.
The agricultural sector in Kassala faces 17 challenges, according to the state's Minister of Production and Economic Resources, Eng. Ammar Abdallah Sulaiman. These challenges include climate change, which has led to drought and irregular rainfall, as well as the impact of deforestation. The minister emphasized the need for the federal government to adapt quickly to these challenges.
Meanwhile, former Kassala Governor and farmer, Karamallah Abbas al-Sheikh, warned that reports from various centers indicate a decline in rainfall rates during the current season, which will negatively impact production. He also cautioned against continued encroachment on vegetation and removal of tree belts in forests.
However, some voices have expressed concerns about the season's prospects. Yaser Ali al-Sab, head of the farmers' committee, stated that indications of the season's failure are greater than its success, citing the absence of many farmers and inadequate financing from the bank. He expressed hope that rainfall in the next 10 days could save the season in some areas.
Key points
- Sudan's Agricultural Minister announces current season's success with production expected to match last year's levels.
- The country targets 3.248 million feddans for winter cultivation, with wheat covering 1 million feddans.
- The agricultural sector faces challenges, including climate change, deforestation, and pest control.
