Farmers in South Sudan’s Ruweng Administrative Area (RAA) are grappling with a severe fuel shortage and devastating bird infestations, putting their livelihoods and food security at risk.
“We have a fuel crisis. We recently purchased a 250-liter barrel of diesel for 2,400,000 South Sudanese pounds,” said Mading Chol, secretary-general of the farmers’ union in Ruweng.
The high fuel costs and limited supply are restricting farmers’ ability to transport their crops to markets and access vital agricultural inputs.
Adding to these difficulties, swarms of quelea birds are ravaging crops, worsening the situation for farmers.
“We urge donors and our government to complete the remaining 10 kilometers of the inland port,” Chol appealed.
Poor infrastructure, especially the lack of reliable roads, further complicates the transport of goods and services in and out of the region.
Zubeida Zaka, acting chairwoman of Ajuong Thok Refugee Camp, emphasized the impact of flooding on the camp, which is intensifying the strain on resources and food security.
“We ask the government and host community for more land to expand our farms,” Zaka added.
Malual Jau, deputy paramount chief of Pariang, also called for support to combat both bird infestations and local insecurity, which have disrupted farming.
Agriculture Minister Josephine Lagu stressed the importance of peace and stability in overcoming these challenges.
“We must focus on building peace in our country. Only in a secure environment can we empower farmers to cultivate their land and rebuild,” Lagu said.
The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has committed to providing aerial spraying to control the bird population and protect crops.
