Federal Minister of Agriculture: Kassala has become the leading producer in agricultural projects

Federal Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Dr. Omar Abubakr Al-Bashir, stated that Kassala State has become the leading producer in agricultural projects after half of the area of the Gezira Project was occupied by the rebellious militia. During his address at the World Food Day celebration organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) under the theme “The Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future,” he praised the efforts of the organization in transitioning from relief programs to achieving development for farmers by providing production inputs.

He emphasized that this day is dedicated to celebrating food provision, particularly at a time when 733 million people globally are suffering from food shortages. He underscored the ministry's commitment to assisting small farmers as part of its strategic development goals, focusing on supporting women, youth, people with disabilities, and vulnerable communities in remote areas, all guided by the slogan "Leaving No One Behind."

He noted that the issue in the previous year was not a lack of production but rather the difficulty in delivering products to people in regions controlled by the rebellious militia. He reaffirmed the ministry's dedication to supporting small farmers to enhance their contributions to production.

Federal Minister of Agriculture: Kassala has become the leading producer in agricultural projects

In his remarks, the acting Governor of Kassala highlighted that holding the World Food Day celebration for the first time in Kassala signifies the provision of food to citizens, countering the prevalent narrative that Sudan is facing a major famine. He pointed out that what has been accomplished in the Kalhout Agricultural Project refutes this claim.

The governor mentioned that Kassala State has cultivated nearly 4 million feddans, with expected production reaching 5 million tons, which will pose a challenge to those with ulterior motives. He noted that the armed forces are fighting against aggression, while other fighters are defending the nation in the food sector.

The governor revealed the advantages of the current season, particularly the rainfall rates, and expressed gratitude to farmers and partners who have supported Sudan amid the current circumstances.

The resident representative of the FAO reviewed the organization’s efforts to support small farmers and distribute seeds to encourage local production. He mentioned that this celebration coincides with 160 countries around the world to emphasize the importance of food and the necessity of providing it to everyone at reasonable prices, as it is a shared responsibility. He noted that 25 million 600 thousand people in Sudan need food and thanked the federal and state ministries for their cooperation and response in distributing seeds across all states.

The Minister of Production and Economic Resources in Kassala State highlighted the significance of World Food Day, noting the significant openness the country is witnessing, especially in providing various types of grains through the current agricultural season.