Uvira, 25 September 2024 (ACP) – There is a great deal of excitement in the market garden fields of Uvira, in the South Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of Congo. An FAO delegation visited the area to see first-hand the impressive results of the region’s market gardeners, who have invested themselves with passion and determination in vegetable production.
In the heart of these nourishing lands, women market gardeners stand out for their hard work and the fruits of their labour do not go unnoticed. The FAO delegation, led by Chief Sylla Viseso, expressed satisfaction with the quality and quantity of vegetables produced, particularly tomatoes. Despite the difficulties encountered, these women manage to pull through, supported by the technical and material assistance of the organization.
During the inspection visit to the market garden fields in Kaboya, Kihuli, Rwege, Katogota, and Luvungi, sound advice was given to producers, emphasizing the importance of processing crops. Indeed, the delegation was concerned about the waste of tomatoes broken during the harvest, which could be used in processed products such as tomato paste. This observation highlights a crucial need in the market gardening sector: that of processing for optimal value of the harvests.
In addition, solidarity was also expressed through concrete actions, such as the distribution of market gardening kits to schools and farmers in the region’s market gardening areas. These initiatives aim to strengthen the socio-economic resilience of small producers and vulnerable communities, supported by a program funded by the German government.
This inspection visit confirms FAO’s commitment to supporting agricultural development in the region by highlighting the work of market gardeners and promoting sustainable practices. These combined efforts between local and international stakeholders demonstrate a shared desire to strengthen food security and promote more equitable and sustainable agriculture.
The territory of Uvira, in the heart of South Kivu, embodies a real pool of agricultural talent, where the passion for the land and the determination of market gardeners pave the way for a promising future for local agriculture. This success story, driven by the dynamism and commitment of field stakeholders, is an inspiring example of resilience and innovation in the Congolese agricultural sector.