This collective call for support echoes the sentiments of many farmers across the region who recognise the pivotal role of timely assistance in ensuring a bountiful harvest.
Speaking to The Point, Pa Sillah, a native of Kuntaur, being a farmer for over 30 years, said: “The rain did not fall how we expect it this year. The only thing that could have substituted the rain is the availability of enough and timely fertilisers.
"We are urging the government to provide fertilisers early and in a conducive way. The digitalisation of buying fertilisers this year was also a challenge, the period after depositing your payment and accessing your product takes about a month, which also contributes immensely to low quality production.
“Sometimes you will have money but to have fertilisers is a problem. We therefore, want the government to provide enough fertilisers and on time.”
He also said the low and late rain caused him to limited the amount of crops he planted. "Normally this time of the year finds me done with my farming,” he remarked.
The farmers' plea underscores the critical need for proactive measures to bolster agricultural productivity and safeguard livelihoods in Kuntaur.
For his part, Abdoulie Sonko, another farmer, said: “I have been a farmer since l was young. This year I was late to plant my crops, thus the reason for my likely bad harvest. Even though the rain also fell very late this year, farmers that planted early will certainly have good harvest.”
He however lamented: “The fertilisers accessibility are a challenge. Some individuals buy some huge amounts from the government and re-sell it in neighbouring Senegal and this causes shortage making it hard for local farmers to access fertilisers.
“We plead with the government that if they can even distribute fertilisers before the rains commence, it will always be better, so we do not have to be waiting for it when the rain has already fallen.”
Nyima Ceesay, also a farmer, expressed hope for this year's harvest. “My challenge is farming equipment and fertiliser,” she said. "If I have these things in hand, I am assured to have enough harvest to feed my family and also sell for income.”
By advocating for timely intervention, the farming community in Kuntaur demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing the pressing issues that affect their agricultural practices.
Amid the lush landscapes of Kuntaur, the farmers' plea for early fertiliser distribution resonates as a beacon of hope and resilience.
Their unwavering determination to secure the necessary resources for a successful harvest exemplifies the spirit of unity and perseverance that defines the agricultural community in Kuntaur.
