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n a shocking turn of events, hundreds of vegetable farmers in Battiland of Bum Chiefdom have expressed their anger and frustration following a wildfire that destroyed their crops over the weekend.
The blaze wasted various vegetables, including garden eggs, watermelons, okra, peppers, cucumbers, and more.
Mohamed Kebbie, the Manager of Battiland, explained the dire situation faced by over 500 farmers who cultivate the land due to its rich nutrients. Farmers travel from across the country to work in Battiland , which is known for its food production. However, this is not the first time they have faced such adversity.
Kebbie revealed that tensions have been escalating for three years as two neighboring villages, Hogboi and Tongoi in the Bum Chiefdom Bonthe District, have been involved in a court battle over land ownership. On that fateful day, flames were seen approaching from Tongoi, leading to the destruction of crops and temporary shelters.
Kebbie urgently called on the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security for assistance, as the farmers are racing against time. With the rainy season expected to begin in May, the risk of flooding looms large.
He emphasized the need for more seedlings to ensure they can replant in time for the upcoming planting season.
Amoh Charles Sengova , a 50 year-old farmer from Blama Pula in the Kpanga Chiefdom, shared his lifelong dedication to vegetable production.
He has been traveling to Battiland to work, paying a fee of one thousand for access to the land. Like his fellow farmers, Sengova was dismayed to see all their hard work go up in flames.
“We are in dire need of vegetables to replant,” he said, echoing Kebbie’s appeal to Lucy Koker, the District Agriculture Officer, for swift action.
Adama Fullah , another affected farmer, voiced her dissatisfaction with the incident. Despite the loss, she remains hopeful and believes that with assistance, they can recover.
Lucy Koker, the District Agriculture Officer for Pujehun, expressed sympathy for the farmers’ plight, acknowledging the significant loss to the community and the government. She noted that the President is committed to ensuring the success of the Feed Saloon project, which aims to improve food security through the production of rice, livestock, and vegetables.
Koker revealed that the government has recently distributed livestock, such as high-breed chickens, goats, and sheep, to enhance the nutritional aspect of the Feed Saloon initiative. She pledged to escalate the farmers’ unfortunate situation to her superiors, emphasizing the urgent need for immediate support.
As the community grapples with this crisis, the call for assistance grows louder, highlighting the resilience and determination of these farmers who strive to feed their families and communities despite overwhelming challenges.
