Boost to sunflower production as farmers get subsidised seeds
SINGIDA: SUNFLOWER farmers in Singida Region have all reasons to smile as the Agricultural Seeds Agency (ASA) began distribution of at least 600 tonnes of subsidised sunflower seeds. The improved seeds, record variety, have been distributed to the growers in the country’s sunflower hub region as per the government’s directives.
Among others, the vision of the exercise is to make sure farmers in the region get the high-yielding variety at affordable prices to engage in mass production of the edible oil raw crop.
Speaking to the sunflower growers and stakeholders during the tailor-made forum for the official launching of the seed distribution exercise, Chief Executive Officer of ASA, Dr Sophia Kashenge said the region will receive a total of 600 tonnes of the subsidised seeds, out of which, 315 tonnes is hybrid seeds.
“These seeds which have high yielding potential will be marketed to the farmers at indicative affordable prices to help them boost production and productivity,” Dr Kashenge.
She urged the seed dealers to make sure they market the seeds at the set prices, and not otherwise, saying the government through the Ministry of Agriculture has decided to subsidise the seeds to help elevate production of the crop and curb shortages of edible oil across the country.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Agriculture Minister David Silinde expressed that the government was working to ensure at least 5,000 tonnes of improved sunflower seeds are produced. He informed that so far, a total of 2045 tonnes have been produced through ASA and other institutions in the private sector.
“The government is working to overcome the existing shortage of edible oil in the country, that is why it is executing diverse initiatives, including a move to ensure the farmers access enough improved seeds, and at affordable prices,” he insisted.
Singida Regional Commissioner Peter Serukamba insisted on the need for the farmers to use the seeds effectively to heighten their production. He hailed the government for initiating the subsidised seeds scheme, saying the development would result in major improvements in the performance of the sub-sector.
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