Africa-Press – South-Sudan. The government of Western Equatoria State has unveiled a fleet of 20 tractors in Yambio, in a renewed push to boost food production and strengthen food security across the region.
The tractors were commissioned by Governor Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa alongside the leadership of the Azande Kingdom during a ceremony held at the Royal Palace in Bazungua.
The event drew government officials, traditional leaders, church representatives, and community members, highlighting growing coordination between state authorities, cultural institutions, and development partners in revitalising agriculture.
The equipment—comprising tractors and agricultural processing machines—was donated by the Chinese government and handed over earlier this year to His Majesty King Atoroba Peni Rikito Gbudue in Juba.
Authorities say the machinery is intended to support large-scale mechanised farming in the Azande Kingdom, an area long regarded for its fertile soil and strong agricultural potential.
Speaking at the launch, Governor Rimbasa framed the initiative as part of a broader strategy to transition from subsistence farming to more efficient, large-scale production.
“This is a key step in transforming agriculture in our state. The tractors will enhance farming efficiency, reduce manual labour, and help communities increase crop yields,” he said. “By supporting mechanised farming, we aim to reduce hunger, strengthen livelihoods, and encourage youth involvement in agriculture.”
Rimbasa also stressed that the success of the initiative will depend on how well communities organise around it, urging farmers to form cooperatives and adopt year-round farming practices. He said the state government would provide technical support, training, and facilitate access to markets.
Meanwhile, King Atoroba of the Azande Kingdom echoed similar sentiments, calling on residents to make effective use of the new equipment and reduce reliance on imported food.
“Farming is the backbone of our community. I urge our people to work the land, produce sufficient food, and reduce dependence on imports. With these tractors, we have the tools to feed our families and generate income,” he said.
The tractors are expected to support the production of key staple crops, including maize, cassava, groundnuts, and vegetables. Agricultural experts say mechanisation could significantly increase productivity by allowing farmers to cultivate larger areas and improve harvest volumes.
Local farmers who attended the ceremony expressed optimism about the initiative. Mary Juma, a farmer from Yambio, said the tractors would ease the burden of manual farming and expand production capacity.
“These tractors will save time and effort. We can now prepare larger fields and grow more crops, which means more food and income for our families,” she said.
State officials said training sessions on tractor operation, maintenance, and sustainable farming practices will begin in the coming weeks to ensure the equipment is used effectively and sustainably.
The rollout forms part of wider efforts by the Western Equatoria State government to modernise agriculture, improve food security, and stimulate economic growth—particularly for rural communities, youth, and women—amid ongoing concerns over rising food prices and dependence on imports.
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