Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and the Environment Dr. Sam Sesay has stated at the Ministry of Information weekly press conference that tractors were deployed in the gboli lands.
The Minister said he was reacting to the points made by people that the tractors were only deployed in one part of the country rather than to all areas. He said those who knew practical agriculture would attest that tractors were more demanding in the gboli areas than the hill land areas.
Despite that, he said the farmers were asked to give an input based on demand and those who produce petrol to run the tractors. He stated that for last years’ production with 86 tractors, 48,000 acres of land was worked on which increased yield to 73,000 bushels. Speaking about the 2009 pending farming season, the Minister explained that 23 combined harvesters have been secured to increase production as well as starting a recovery of seeds. To recover the seeds for 2006 he said was problematic as only 83,000 was recovered and for last year, out of 73,000 bushels given out, 24% of that was recovered. Dr. Sesay also disclosed that the tractorization scheme will be continued and an increase of the tractors from 86 to 100 with an additional package from India and Libya and with the increase of the tractors, the demand also increases.
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