By Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri
The International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) has commenced the distribution of 4,000 metric tonnes (mts) of assorted seeds to 50,000 farmers in Borno State.
This is to cushion the effect of Boko Haram insurgency which displaced over two million people in the state, the epicentre of the decade-long crisis.
Conducting journalists round the ICRC warehouse in Maiduguri where the seeds and food items are packaged before being transported to the local government, the ICRC Head Sub-delegation office in the town, Beat Mosimann, said the seeds would be distributed to farmers in Kukawa, Mobbar, Monguno and Kala Balge Local Government areas of the state.
He said each of the estimated 50,000 farmers would receive between five and eight different types of cereal and vegetable seeds, which is best suited to the location of their farms.
He said they would also be given food to ensure that the seeds are not consumed during the lean season.
He said: “Since the rains are expected soon in Borno State, many farmers who have lost everything due to the armed conflict urgently need seeds to cultivate their lands and start producing food for their families again.â€
Mosimann disclosed that about 250,000 individuals are expected to benefit from the intervention will has already started and would be winding up on June 7.
He disclosed that the distribution has been coordinated with other relief organisations, who provide assistance in other areas of the troubled state.
He further disclosed that some 130 trucks will be transporting the seeds out of the warehouse to the distribution locations in the state.
He noted that the seeds being given to farmers include rice, millet, pepper, melon, onion, maize and sorghum.
