Minister of Agriculture: Relying on IFAD for Increased Support to Farmers

Acting Federal Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Dr. Abu Bakr Omar affirmed Sudan’s reliance on a more prominent role for the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) in supporting small farmers. He highlighted the violations by Rapid Support Forces militias in production areas, including infrastructure destruction, livelihood losses, strategic stock theft, burning of main crops, and forced displacement of farmers. The minister praised IFAD’s essential role in swiftly responding to the needs of small farmers and rural populations. He made these remarks during his meeting with IFAD President Alvaro Lario on Friday in Rome on the sidelines of the 52nd Food Security Committee meetings.

The minister discussed ongoing projects between the Sudanese government and IFAD, stressing the need for continued and increased support from the fund. He urged the IFAD president to provide technical and capacity-building support, particularly in value chains. Ambassador Sayed Al-Tayeb praised IFAD’s substantial efforts in Sudan and invited Lario to visit Sudan soon. He also noted the ongoing visit by Cindy McCain, Executive Director of the World Food Program, as a sign of solidarity with Sudan during these times. IFAD President Alvaro Lario reaffirmed IFAD’s commitment to working with Sudan to support small farmers, exploring project and program transfers that contribute to stability and improved conditions. He promised to consider visiting Sudan soon.