By Waure Eddy
In a major step toward strengthening food security and sustainable livelihoods, 90 farmers from Ezo, Yangiri, and Ringasi have received essential agricultural tools to support their second farming season.
The distribution was carried out by the Catholic Organization for Development and Peace (CODEP) under its Sustainable Agriculture Project, funded by the Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund (SCIAF), based in Glasgow.
The distributed tools include hoes, Pangas, gam-boots, Rex-hoes, fox-hoes, pickaxes, tape measures, and overalls each selected to enhance productivity and reduce labor intensity.
The initiative is part of a broader plan to train 120 farmers across Western Equatoria State in sustainable farming techniques, with a strong emphasis on empowering women and persons with disabilities.
The distributions began on Wednesday in Ezo County and continued Thursday in Yangiri and Ringasi, under Nzara County. Each location saw 30 farmers receive their tools.
Speaking during the handover in Ezo, CODEP Coordinator Mr. Charles Rangabia praised the farmers for their commitment:
“Someone who gives you ready food doesn’t want you to farm. But someone who gives you tools wants you to continue farming. As you receive these tools, make good use of them,” Rangabia urged.
Project Manager Mr. Gibson Kamilio Bakuyo emphasized the long-term impact of the initiative:
“These tools are not for sale, not for violence they are for cultivating your gardens and improving your yields. This project will benefit over 120 farmers directly and more than 720 household members indirectly.”
He added that technical training will soon begin in Ezo, Yangiri, Ringasi, Yambio, and Mambe of Maridi County to equip farmers with practical skills in agricultural production.
“This is your project as farmers. Our role is to train and equip you. The seriousness I see here gives me hope that this initiative will succeed,” Kamilio said.
The impact of the distribution was felt immediately, with farmers expressing deep appreciation:
Ruzetha Augustino, a farmer from Ezo, shared “This hoe means more than just a tool it’s a chance to feed my children and grow my future. I thank CODEP and SCIAF for remembering us.”
Agume Jackson also from Ezo, said “We’ve struggled with farming using bare hands. These tools will help us work faster and smarter. I’m ready to start.”
Joseph Mario a disabled farmer from Yangiri, expressing his joy noted, “I never thought I would be included in such a program. With these tools, I can farm again and support my family. Thank you for seeing us.”
Archangelo Kutio from Ringasi, added “This is the first time I’ve received support like this. I’ll use these tools wisely and share what I learn with others.”
