Sudan's Al-Jazeera project has initiated a comprehensive plan to revitalize its operations, with a focus on addressing pressing issues such as irrigation, financing, and localization. The project's management council, led by Chairman General Khalid Abedin Al-Shami, convened its first meeting in Khartoum to outline priorities for the next phase. The council aims to tackle challenges related to irrigation, water scarcity, and pump maintenance, while preparing for the upcoming winter season.
The council, comprising various stakeholders, including government officials, project managers, and representatives from the private sector, will oversee the implementation of the plan. The meeting was attended by Governor of Gezira State, Al-Tahir Ibrahim Al-Khair, and project manager, Engineer Ibrahim Mustafa. The council's formation and priorities were announced by the project's legal advisor, Molana Dr. Sadig Mfarah.
The Al-Jazeera project has made significant progress in its summer season, with approximately 900,000 feddans of land under cultivation. However, the project faces challenges related to irrigation, due to scarce rainfall. Project manager, Engineer Ibrahim Mustafa, briefed the council on the current status of the summer season and preparations for the winter season, which is expected to receive funding from various financial institutions.
Chairman General Khalid Abedin Al-Shami emphasized the importance of securing external financing for the project's development and revitalization. He highlighted the need to localize the production of essential inputs, such as fertilizers and seeds, to enhance the project's self-sufficiency. The council also discussed the need to address the issue of water scarcity and pump maintenance.
Gezira State Governor, Al-Tahir Ibrahim Al-Khair, urged the council to prioritize its tasks and develop a clear strategy to drive the project's performance. The governor emphasized the need to address the challenges facing the project, including the rehabilitation of its infrastructure. Meanwhile, the representative of the Ministry of Finance, Mohammed Ali Jumaa, stressed the importance of restoring the project's leading role in supporting the national economy.
The council also discussed the need for a comprehensive survey of cultivated land, identification of areas with water scarcity, and ensuring the availability of fuel for the winter season. Engineer Abd al-Baqi Nur Al-Daim, a member of the council, emphasized the importance of collaboration and the formation of committees to oversee the project's operations.
The Al-Jazeera project's revitalization efforts have been welcomed by stakeholders, who see the project as a crucial component of Sudan's economy. Representative of the project's owners, Walid Umar Abbas, emphasized the need for government support to ensure the project's success. The project's management council is expected to play a critical role in driving the project's growth and development.
Key points
- The Al-Jazeera project's management council has outlined a comprehensive plan to address pressing issues, including irrigation, financing, and localization.
- The project has made significant progress in its summer season, with approximately 900,000 feddans of land under cultivation.
- External financing is expected to play a crucial role in the project's development and revitalization efforts.
