Crop Destruction and Market Challenges Plague Wa East Farmers

File Photo

The Monitoring and Evaluation Officer for the Department of Agriculture in the Wa East District, Mr. Edward Puobanye, has identified key challenges threatening the livelihoods of local farmers. In an interview on Info Radio, Mr. Puobanye emphasized that crop destruction by livestock, especially cattle, remains one of the most pressing issues facing the district’s agricultural community.

He explained that the frequent damage to crops often leads to tensions between crop farmers and herdsmen, despite the department’s efforts to promote sensitization and mediate disputes. Unfortunately, he noted that farmers frequently do not receive justice in these cases, exacerbating frustrations within the community.

Mr. Puobanye also revealed a significant oversupply of farm produce, particularly cereals, which has resulted in a glut in the market and a consequent sharp decline in prices. The lack of adequate storage facilities has worsened the situation, with only two warehouses under construction—located in Funsi and Bulenga—part of the government’s ‘One District One Warehouse’ policy. However, these facilities are still incomplete, leaving farmers with limited options to preserve their produce.

The district official called for urgent intervention to address both crop destruction and market infrastructure deficiencies to support sustainable farming and improve the economic prospects of local farmers.