**The success story of the maize harvest in Kaniama-Kasese, DRC**
In the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in the Haut-Lomami province, a major change is taking shape in the agricultural sector. President Félix Tshisekedi’s recent speech before both houses of Parliament reveals a significant step forward in the fight against food dependency.
The impressive initiative of the National Service in Kaniama-Kasese, aimed at boosting maize production, deserves our full attention. On nearly 5,000 hectares of sown land, an imminent harvest is expected in early 2025. With an expected yield of 5 tonnes per hectare, this is nearly 25,000 tonnes of additional maize that will reinforce the existing stocks of 2,500 tonnes. In addition, the cattle herd on site has increased from 1,000 to 5,000 heads, demonstrating a real success of the program initiated in Kaniama-Kasese.
The integrated and collaborative approach adopted by the National Service in Kaniama-Kasese reveals its full potential. Indeed, the valorization of local talents hitherto underestimated, transformed into real actors of national development, proves to be the key to the success of this project. This approach, adaptable to each region, requires an urgent replica in other provinces of the country, in close symbiosis with local authorities, to ensure maximum impact and effectively respond to the challenges of Congolese agriculture.
In addition, the government, under the leadership of President Tshisekedi, is fully committed to implementing an initiative to develop agropoles and agro-industrial parks throughout the country. These strategic projects, complementary to the agro-pastoral development poles, aim to accelerate the transformation of the Congolese agricultural sector, thus strengthening the foundations of a diversified and stable economy.
It is undeniable that food self-sufficiency can and must no longer be a simple slogan, but a tangible reality for the Congolese people. The success observed in Kaniama-Kasese is an example to follow, a model of inspiration for the entire country. The future of Congolese agriculture looks promising, driven by the commitment and vision of a leadership concerned with the well-being of its population.
In conclusion, the maize harvest in Kaniama-Kasese, DRC, is much more than a simple agricultural success. It is the symbol of a profound change, a radical transformation, a better future for an entire nation committed to the development of its resources and its potential.