Launching of Cultivation Season B in Lomami: Provincial Agriculture Enterprise Aims to Produce Minimum of 1,000 Tons of Maize
The provincial authorities of Lomami province recently kicked off the Cultivation Season B in Kamende, the capital of Kabinda territory. Led by Vice-Governor Célestin Kayembe Ciaji Cibola, the ceremony marked the beginning of the agricultural activities for the season. Minister of Agriculture Doris Kayoka visited the farming operations of the Lomami Portfolio Agro-Pastoral Company (SAPLOM SASU) on January 16th at one of their sites in Bena Mpoyi groupement, Ngandajika territory.
Minister of Agriculture Impressed by Progress
During the on-site inspection, Minister Doris Kayoka expressed satisfaction with the speed and quality of the work done, despite the limited number of tractors available. Out of the expected twenty tractors, only two were present. The initiative aims to boost agriculture in Lomami province and address food insecurity, aligning with President Félix Tshisekedi’s vision of prioritizing soil over subsoil resources.
Minister Kayoka highlighted the need for additional support from the national Ministry of Agriculture to secure the remaining five tractors for the province. Despite this, he commended the efforts of the general director of SAPLOM and encouraged the continuation of the current momentum.
SAPLOM’s Ambitious Goals for the Season
SAPLOM’s general director, Engineer Alpha Somwe, shared that 54 hectares of land have already been plowed in Bena Mpoyi groupement, nearing their target of 100 hectares. Progress is also evident in Luilu territory, where work is advancing swiftly. The goal for Cultivation Season B across the province is to cultivate 250 hectares, even though the activities commenced behind schedule.
The province of Lomami, lacking in mineral resources, is placing its bets on agriculture due to its vast and fertile lands. Governor Iron Van Kalombo Musoko established the provincial public agriculture enterprise SAPLOM shortly after his inauguration on July 20, 2024, to oversee agricultural production in all five territories of Lomami.
In the midst of challenges and delays, SAPLOM and its partners remain committed to increasing maize production and enhancing food security in Lomami province.
**Random Humanizing Touch:**
Imagine waking up to the sound of roosters crowing in the distance, signaling the start of another day filled with hope and hard work for the farmers in Lomami province. As they toil under the sun, their hands in the soil, they are not just planting seeds but sowing dreams of a better future for their families and communities. Through their dedication and perseverance, they are nurturing not just crops but a legacy of resilience and growth that will sustain generations to come. So, the next time you enjoy a meal, remember the hands that cultivated the land to bring food to your table, and let their story inspire you to appreciate the journey from farm to fork.