Federal Government sets aside $2 million to boost food security
GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: The Federal Government of Somalia has allocated $2 million towards the Somali Seed Systems Recovery Initiative (SSSRI).
The Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation (MoAI) says the two year program is an important steps to strengthen the national seed supply system and develop crops which can adopt to the impacts of climate change.
The program is funded through the Somalia Crisis Recovery Project (SCRP) financed by the World Bank and it targets seed production and distribution through coordinated efforts between MoAI, Seed Systems Group, private sector, Somali seed companies, and farmers nationwide.
“SSSRI demonstrates our priority to establish public-private seed sector partnerships that will boost rural livelihoods for years to come,” State Minister for Agriculture Asad Abdirisak who officiated the launch of the program said.
The minster added that five leading seed companies have been selected to receive training and grants to expand production and marketing of drought-tolerant seed varieties.
Minister Abdirisak further revealed that MoAI scientists will carry out crop research activities with support from SCRP. The testing of new, high-yielding varieties of sorghum, cowpea and other staple food crops will provide valuable insights for shaping informed national seed policy.
Additionally, he said, SCRP will fund fellowships for MoAI crop specialists, enabling them advance their education in plant breeding and seed systems development.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Finance, I pledge our full support to ensure efficient implementation and accountability of funds. Projects like this which empower farmers are investments in Somalia’s long-term development. I call on all partners to unite behind achieving food security for our people,” Saleiman Sheik Umar, Director General of the Ministry of Finance, stated.
The ministry targets that over 100,000 farmers will have experimented with new seed varieties and identify those that suit their farms and hence produce in larger quantities hence boost the country’s food security.
WFP Somalia’s Deputy Country Director, Baimankay Sankoh, emphasized the importance of the Seed Systems Recovery Initiative project during the event, stating, “This Seed Systems Recovery Initiative project will provide a platform for all stakeholders to come together, share expertise, and work towards a common goal: ensuring food security for all Somalis”
FAO Somalia’s Country Representative, Etienne Peterschimtt underscored the shared dedication and cooperative efforts demonstrated by all partners and government.
“I am privileged to witness the strong commitment and collaboration among stakeholders through the Somalia Seed Systems Recovery Initiative. Strengthening Somalia’s seed systems is a crucial step towards ensuring food security and improving rural livelihoods. Together, we are forging a path towards a resilient and prosperous agricultural sector in Somalia.”