By Baraka John
Farmers in three counties of Western Equatoria State have received new farming tools aimed at increasing food production during the second planting season.
The distribution, carried out by the Catholic Organization for Development and Peace (CODEP) under its Sustainable Agriculture Project, was funded by the Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund (SCIAF) based in Glasgow.
The support package included hoes, pangas, gam-toots, Rex-hoes, fox-hoes, pickaxes, tape measures, and overalls all selected to improve productivity and reduce the heavy labor burden faced by small-scale farmers.
Many beneficiaries expressed gratitude, saying the tools came at a crucial time.
“I am glad to receive these tools,” said Agume Jackson from Ezo. “We always used old tools that made farming very difficult. With these new ones, our work will be easier. We are not going to sell them, but use them for the benefit of our country.”
Another farmer, Ruzetha Augustino, said farming is his family’s main source of survival, but outdated equipment made cultivation a struggle. “I never thought I would be included in such a program. With these tools, I can farm again and support my family. We will use them to help our community in Ezo,” he said.
CODEP’s Program Manager, Gibson Kamilio Bakuyo, told farmers during the handover that the initiative goes beyond tool distribution. The project will also train 120 farmers in Ezo, Yangiri, Ringasi, Yambio, and Mambe of Maridi County on sustainable agriculture, with special focus on empowering women and persons with disabilities.
“We shall train you, and you will apply the knowledge on your farms to increase yields. With surplus, you can sell and help fight hunger in the community,” Bakuyo urged.
The project is expected to benefit 120 farmers directly and more than 720 household members indirectly.
Agriculture remains the backbone of livelihoods in Western Equatoria, dominated by subsistence crops such as maize, cassava, and groundnuts. Efforts are also underway to revive cash crops like coffee.
Some of the tools distributed on display (Photo: Baraka John/King Media Ltd)
Despite its potential, farmers in the state continue to face significant challenges, including poor roads, limited access to markets, and shortages of quality tools and inputs. Insecurity has also forced many to farm only near their homes for safety, reducing access to fertile distant fields.