Kaffrine: Between crop conditions and grievances, the Minister of Agriculture faces the producers

The Minister of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Livestock, Cheikh Oumar Ba, was in the field in the Kaffrine region to take stock of the agricultural campaign and gather the concerns of producers.

The tour began in Khourdane, in the commune of Ida Mouride, department of Koungheul, before continuing to Niahène, in the department of Malem Hodar, then to Sikilo and Diamagadio, in the department of Kaffrine. It ended in Médina Thiakho and Nawel, in the department of Birkelane.

At each stage, the minister focused on the state of the crops, the availability of inputs, and their timely delivery. "The primary objective of this mission was to assess the progress of crop establishment," he explained.

Encouraging signs

Despite uncertainties related to rainfall and climate change, initial observations are considered encouraging. In particular, adapted varieties have been offered to producers, such as Nerica 6 for rice. For maize, the "Maize Granary" program is expected to help improve practices and yields.

“Here, we have received information that crop performance is very good,” stated Cheikh Oumar Ba, while noting that conditions can vary from one area to another. The minister also pointed out an overall increase in quotas this year, which he believes is a sign of strengthened support for producers.

Marketing remains a challenge

Beyond production, marketing remains a major concern. "We can only fully rely on producers if we also manage to resolve the marketing issue," he said.

A meeting with the Ministry of Trade and Industry is announced to examine the difficulties encountered during the previous campaign.

The tour also provided an opportunity to gather complaints, particularly regarding boreholes and roads. For one broken borehole, repair crews are scheduled to intervene as early as Thursday. Studies are also planned for three other boreholes before the end of October.

“We must not let these issues drag on,” insisted the minister, who wants to prioritize quick responses to the concerns of the people.

For Cheikh Oumar Ba, this approach reflects a desire to strengthen ties with the rural world. "We are in a time where we have a duty of accountability to the people," he stressed.