Receiving the seeds for distribution, the Regional Delegate of Agriculture and Rural Development, Forwang Lawrence Nyakanga, praised SOWEDA for their time-tested efforts in supporting agriculture. He said the gesture would improve farm sizes and yields. The Delegate however expressed disappointment that he discovered the same batch of SOWEDA maize already with field staff in Lebialem, Manyu and Meme Divisions without the knowledge of MINADER regional authorities. He expressed fears that distributing maize directly to frontline agricultural staff without his knowledge may not ensure proper accountability.
It has been an uphold task for SOWEDA to prepare seeds and seedlings for farmers since 2009 when they produced 21 metric tonnes. Last year, they stepped up to 29 metric tonnes and this year the quantity has risen to 35.8 metric tonnes. Farmers are advised to take advantage of the improved seeds to move from subsistence agriculture to large-scale production. Working through registered Common Initiative Groups, CIGs, SOWEDA produces improved farming materials that are highly subsidized by government. A kilogramme of improved maize seed sells for FCFA 300 instead of FCFA 1,000, its real cost. Some 2,400 plantain suckers and cassava cuttings were also produced by SOWEDA for distribution to farmers.
