Transforming agriculture in Gash Barka region

A meeting conducted in Barentu discussed collaborative efforts undertaken to enhance the agricultural sector in the Gash Barka region

Known for being rich in arable land and livestock resources, the Gash Barka region has drawn the attention of the Ministry of Agriculture, who in collaboration with local administrations, agricultural experts, and farmers have introduced a wide range of initiatives to encourage agricultural development in the region.  

Participants at the meeting involved in detailed discussions regarding various issues that were raised, giving due attention to the development of green animal fodder, expanding livestock vaccination programmes, and conducting sustainable awareness-raising activities.

Director General of Agriculture and Land, Abubeker Osman highlighted the various community-based and farmer-focused preparations and training programmes organised in 2024 that not only gave rise to ample harvests, but also encouraged developments in irrigation farming. Moreover, well over 18,000 ha of water diversion schemes and terraces were renovated and nearly 8,700 cu m of dry organic fertiliser and 50,000 l of liquid fertiliser were distributed, in addition to around 1.1 million quintals of vegetables and fruits that had been supplied to markets.

The spread of tea locusts, which is considered one of the major challenges in the region were also addressed, as pesticides were sprayed over nearly 4,800 ha of land in the same year. Furthermore, the construction of five dams witnessed successful completion, with nine more being currently under construction. 

The region Governor, Ambassador Mahmud Ali Hirui also called for stronger efforts to improve the region’s agricultural sector in both quantity and quality.