Aminuis farmers welcome information on drought

OMAHEKE farmers in the drought-hit Aminuis constituency have called for more frequent information-sharing sessions to help them deal with livestock challenges such as drought and improve production.

The farmers made the call on Thursday after attending an information-sharing day by the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry (MAWF) in conjunction with Agribank.

Most farmers Nampa spoke to said such sessions are needed as they open farmers’ minds and the opportunity to learn and add value to the production.

Among others, Onderombapa farmer Sophia Kanguvi said she feels a bit relieved after the difficult drought period and she now learned more about the planting of grass which will help her feed her livestock during the dry season, instead of buying from established dealers.

“This is one of the topics that I believe will bring relief during the dry season. I almost gave up on farming but now I learned how to survive and to look after my produce,” said Kanguvi, who is also a retired teacher.

Sharing the same sentiment, Erastus Kandjii from Ozohambo za Nderombapa said the session enlightened him with more information regarding livestock feeding, planting of grass and applying injections.

“We need more trainings of this nature, as they are rare in our community. I learned a lot in a short period and urge the MAWF and Agribank to organise such events more frequently for the benefit of the farmers,” Kandjii urged.

On her part, Cynthia Kautoorora said despite focusing more on livestock farming, she will turn to poultry farming as well, as it is cheap. Kautoorora also said she will extend her garden to make provision for planting grass and save her livestock during the dry period.

The information-sharing session was aimed at educating farmers on animal diseases that occur during the rainy season, planting of grass, rangeland management, animal nutrition and different injections, among others.

– Nampa