During a meeting held on 21 December in Barentu, it was reported that significant efforts have been made in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, local administrations, agricultural experts, and farmers to improve the agricultural sector in the Gash Barka Region of Eritrea.
Mr. Abubeker Osman, Director General of Agriculture and Land in the region, highlighted the abundance of arable land and livestock resources in Gash Barka. He emphasized the ongoing expansion of the agricultural sector through joint efforts at the government level and with the Ministry of Agriculture.
In 2024, community-based and farmer-focused preparations were carried out to enhance agricultural practices in the region. Various training programs were organized, leading to increased harvests and advancements in irrigation farming.
Renovation of over 18,000 hectares of water diversion schemes and terraces has been completed. Distribution of dry organic fertilizer, liquid fertilizer, and supply of vegetables and fruits to markets have contributed to agricultural growth. Pesticides were also sprayed on approximately 4,800 hectares of land to control the spread of tree locusts.
Nine dams are currently under construction in Gash Barka, with five already completed. These dams will have a collective capacity of 1.2 million cubic meters of water, providing essential irrigation for agricultural activities.
Mr. Arefaine Berhe, Minister of Agriculture, emphasized the Ministry’s focus on developing small and medium-scale agribusinesses and promoting family agricultural activities. He called for increased participation in implementing these programs to further boost the agricultural sector.
Ambassador Mahmud Ali Hirui, Governor of the region, attributed the abundant agricultural yield this year to the collaborative efforts of agricultural experts, farmers, and local administrations, along with favorable rainfall. He urged for continued efforts to enhance the quantity and quality of agricultural production in Gash Barka.
During the meeting, participants engaged in discussions and adopted recommendations to prioritize the development of green animal fodder, expand livestock vaccination programs, and conduct sustainable awareness-raising activities to support agricultural growth in the region.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.
