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| One kilogram of maize seeds is being sold at nearly 25,000 Fbu by private sellers, while it is available for 4,500 Fbu at the provincial agriculture office. |
Farmers in Ngozi district, are facing challenges due to ever-increasing potato and maize seed prices. This increase in seed costs has worried farming communities, especially in remote areas.
Private sellers are now offering one kilogram of maize seed at the shocking price of about 25,000 Fbu, in sharp contrast to the 4,500 Fbu price at the provincial agriculture office As a result of this huge price gap, many farmers face financial pressure , while trying to acquire what is needed for the upcoming planting season
The Ngozi District Bureau of Agriculture, Livestock and Environment (BPEAE) recently launched the sale of seeds and fertilizers, aimed at supporting local farmers. But the situation remains challenging, with prices varying widely within a single retailer, especially in remote areas of the region. This leads to price differentials leading to speculation and uncertainty, which has compounded the challenges faced by rural farmers.
Farmers in Ngozi County have raised concerns about rising seed prices, fearing that rising costs could threaten their ability to maintain a sustainable agricultural livelihood. The discrepancy between private traders and government channels has created an urgent need for affordable access to all farmers to stabilize seed prices.
Local agriculture officials are actively monitoring the situation and working to find a solution to address this issue. As the planting season approaches, farmers in Ngozi State are eagerly awaiting interventions that can meet the economic burden of high prices.
