South Korean Peacekeepers Implement High-Tech Farming Techniques in South Sudan
Around 95 percent of South Sudan’s population depends on farming, cattle-keeping, or fishing for survival. Unfortunately, the country is currently facing one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, with over 7.7 million people experiencing acute food insecurity.
To help revitalize the agriculture sector, South Korean peacekeepers serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) are leading the way in implementing high-tech, mechanized farming techniques to transform farming practices in the Jonglei region.
The collaboration with the Dr. John Garang Memorial University of Science and Technology in Bor focuses on rice farming, horticulture, and orchid cultivation, essential for poverty reduction and sustainability.
Professor Abraham Matoch Dhal, the university’s Vice Chancellor, highlights the importance of workshops and field demonstrations in enhancing food production and promoting essential skills among local students and farmers.
This week, Colonel Kwon Byungguk and the peacekeepers showcased the impact of their efforts to the National Agriculture Minister and the Jonglei State Governor, featuring innovative machinery and advanced farming processes such as precision tractors, automated irrigation, greenhouses, and soil-testing kits.
Geetha Pious, Head of the UNMISS Field Office in Bor, commends the rapid expansion of the modern rice farm initiated by South Korean peacekeepers in 2023, emphasizing its strategic role in agricultural growth and local economies.
The project team’s prior research led to the identification of a suitable rice variety and the development of greenhouse and drip irrigation systems to enhance fruit and vegetable production efficiency.
The introduction of orchid farming, known for its commercial potential, presents new income opportunities for local communities, marking a significant advancement in the initiative.
By combining traditional knowledge with cutting-edge techniques, the initiative not only paves the way for sustainable agricultural growth in the conflict-affected nation but also sets a dynamic model for the future.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
