Fatshimetrie, October 29, 2024 – A glimmer of hope has shone in the territory of Kabeya Kamwanga in Kasai Oriental in the Democratic Republic of Congo, as nearly 2,500 households received vital assistance in the form of improved maize seeds. This initiative, the result of the commitment of the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and the African Agricultural Leadership Institute, aims to transform the agricultural landscape of this central region.
Paul Dontsop, IITA’s head of office, stressed the importance of this support for local communities, saying: “We have been able to register nearly 2,500 households here in Kabeya Kamwanga, during this agricultural season, we will support this first group of farmers with seeds, fertilizers and also good farming practices. We hope that with these seeds, we will be able to increase agricultural production.” These words resonate as a call to action for better food security in the region.
The distribution of these improved maize seeds marks the beginning of a new era for local agriculture, with the introduction of an innovative variety intended to increase yields and combat malnutrition in the region. Mr. Paul Dontsop stressed that this action is part of a broader program initiated by the President of the Republic, with the technical support of IITA and AALI.
The beneficiaries of these seeds expressed their joy and gratitude to the institutions involved. Mwa Mbuyi Régine, one of the beneficiaries, said: “We are very happy because today, we have this support and that the President of the Republic finds our recognition here and we pray that this does not stop here only, but that it is done for other farmers in our territory.”
As part of the Congolese government-backed Agricultural Transformation Agenda, Kabeya Kamwanga represents a key step in the distribution of improved seeds, following the success in Tshilenge. This initiative is part of a broader approach to modernize and energize the Congolese agricultural sector to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
In conclusion, this distribution of improved maize seeds in Kabeya Kamwanga marks the beginning of a new era for agriculture in the region. By helping local farmers increase their productivity and improve their food security, this action represents an important step towards a brighter future for the entire community.