Bangal Suso, an urban farmer in Brikama Jamisa told this medium that his hope for a pumper harvest is hampered by pest infestation in his maize farm.
Bangal who cultivates small maize farm at his backyard during rainy season is adversely affected by pest destruction
” I harvested 25 bags of maize last year. I sold it at Brikama Market at two thousand dalasis each. All together, I scored D50,000. But looking at the situation of my farm, I don’t think I will harvest more than ten bags!”
He attributed the problem to a lack of financial resources to purchase pesticides on time.
” I don’t have money to buy pesticide on time. If I had done the spraying on time, the damages would haven’t been minimal”
He calls on the government to assist farmers with free pesticides noting that the cost is not affordable to all.
” Although the price of fertilizer is reduced it’s still not easy for the farmers to buy. Food self-sufficiency cannot be fully realized if farmers lack fertilizers, pesticides, and other farming tools.”
This medium contacted Alhagie Bojang, an agricultural field extension staff who admitted that farmers endure challenges but urged them to report to them early if they notice any pest infestation in their farms.
” Sometimes it is too late for us to get information about pest infestation. Agric extension officers are around, and farmers should always consult us to give them advice and possible assistance.
Mr Banjal Suso who uses his farming proceeds to sustain his family is now frustrated and yearning for alternative means to get money.
Urban farmer in distress as pests invest his maize farm.
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