By Bakah Derick
Farmers in the North West Region have expressed concerns about the deteriorating situation of farm to market roads. Speaking on behalf of farmers at the launching of the 2022 Farming Season in the region Ngong Elizabeth, expressed the need for the administration to look into the issue of roads which will enable them transport their farm produce with ease. She has also used the event to complain on the increase in fertilizer prices, insufficient availability of chicks and insecurity.
Ngong Elizabeth addressing the farming season launching event
Talking to www.hilltopvoices.com, North West Governor Adolph Lele L'Afrique admitted the road issue as a problem and said government is working on it. Prioritising the main road into the region from Babajou, the Governor indicated that the contract has been signed and contractors are soon to go to work. He has appealed for calm as even the inter city roads are under consideration. He elected not to comment on the fertilizer price increase and availability of chicks. The Governor has attributed the improved security level to the efforts of farmers whose farms have enabled the availability of food."
The farmers received 12 tons of maize seeds, agro-chemicals as well as chemical and organic fertilizers. Through Ngong Elizabeth, they have expressed gratitude to their donor; The North West Development Authority (MIDENO)
As the General Manager of MIDENO, Cletus Anye Matoyah disclosed that though with financial difficulties, the institution has ensured farmers donot go without the necessary farm input support for the season.
"As we all are aware, good seeds constitute a critical factor for Agricultural production and productivity. That is why MIDENO considers access to improved seeds by farmers as a prime concern. At a time when he Region is running a risk of food insecurity, which is a manifest consequence of the ongoing crisis, I therefore urge you all to ensure these seeds are effectively planted." Cletus Anye Matoyah, MIDENO General Manager said.
"We are here today again, like last year within the framework of one major responsibility assigned to MIDENO by the state which is to enhance production and productivity of farmers. The farm inputs you are going to be receiving during this ceremony are in this perspective. The farmers who are the beneficiaries of these inputs have all reason therefore to remain thankful to the government through the North West Development Authority. The soil has never deceived anyone; so do not be afraid to take the plunge and become the agricultural entrepreneurs that Cameroon needs. It is a noble and rewarding profession for our economy." The Governor said
Before declaring launched the farming season in the region, Governor Adolph Lele L'Afrique urged the beneficiary farmers "to make proper use of the inputs so that the agricultural sector in the region can experience a boost, while enhancing the livelihood of the rural population of the North West Region."
Created in 1981, MIDENO has the mission to coordinate, supervise and support rural development in the North West Region. The institution has the responsibility to meet the needs of the over 80% of the population involved in agriculture.