By Waure Eddy.
The Episcopal Vicar of Central Deanery, Reverend Father Basana Alfred, has toured the Uze Farmers Group at Bakiri Center and the Ngindo Farmers Group at Baguga Chapel, accompanied by the Catholic Organization for Development and Peace, affirming the Diocese’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and community self-reliance.
The Wednesday visit formed part of ongoing supervision of the Sustainable Agriculture Project funded by Manos Unidas and implemented by CODEP.
Strengthening Farmer Commitment
Project Manager Mr. Mamu John expressed appreciation for the Vicar’s presence, noting that his visit strengthened farmers’ commitment to applying skills acquired during training.
“Today we are happy to see the Episcopal Vicar around us. We appreciate his hospitality to join us, and we thank the leadership of Bishop Barani Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala,” he said.
Vision for Food Security
Father Basana Alfred commended farmer progress and praised the Bishop’s leadership in supporting Christians and farming communities.
“I am thinking that long time from now, no more hunger will be among the community because of the Bishop’s effort,” he remarked, expressing confidence that the Diocese’s agricultural initiatives will achieve long-term food security.
The Vicar encouraged perseverance, urging farmers not to abandon their work and assuring them that dedication would yield abundant harvests. He emphasized that the Bishop’s vision for the Diocese was rooted in resilience and self-reliance.
Warning Against Counterproductive Aid
Father Basana cautioned against organizations providing money instead of practical training and tools, arguing that cash handouts weaken farmer motivation and work ethic.
“Some organizations are giving money to farmers, but they are making them lazy. For us in the Diocese, we train farmers and give them tools for cultivation. That is the only error I have seen around,” he said.
He stressed the importance of mindset change: “Someone who is giving knowledge is better than the one giving ready food. They weaken the ability to work. We encourage farmers not to put money ahead of their work.”
Collective Strength
Father Basana concluded by urging farmers to work as one team, highlighting that collective effort ensures greater financial returns when produce is sold.
The Diocese of Tombura-Yambio, under Bishop Hiiboro’s leadership, continues spearheading initiatives aimed at strengthening the Church and empowering Christians to achieve faster development and improved livelihoods through sustainable agriculture and community-based development.
