Halfa agricultural project to cultivate 75,000 acres of wheat amid challenges in Sudan

SUDAN – The Halfa Agricultural Project in eastern Sudan is set to plant over 75,000 acres of wheat this winter season, according to Ahmed Khalifa Idris, the project’s director.

This announcement comes as the project, covering an area of 366,000 acres, continues to grapple with reduced operations due to declining water storage in the Khashm el-Girba dam caused by silt accumulation.

Idris, speaking to Sudan Tribune, highlighted the completion of preparations for winter planting despite significant challenges, including uncleared irrigation canals.

He expressed gratitude to Harvest Company for its efforts in boosting summer crop production, noting the company’s role in cultivating corn and peanuts on 36,000 acres, 90% of its target.

“The company prepared the land, supplied improved seeds and fertilizers, and is working to ensure seed availability for farmers,” Idris said during a summer harvest festival.

However, while acknowledging progress, farmers voiced frustration over insufficient government support.

Mohamed Abdallah Ahmedia, a farmer, criticized the lack of functionality within the Agricultural Bank, which he claimed disregards agricultural issues. Another farmer, Omer Taj al-Din, called on the government to fulfill its responsibilities, lamenting the lack of clear agricultural policies and the persistent challenges of irrigation canal maintenance, invasive mesquite trees, and inadequate services such as electricity and education.

“The state only shows up during harvest to collect taxes, leaving farmers to fend for themselves,” Taj al-Din remarked.

Sudan’s agricultural sector has faced significant obstacles, including economic instability and the impact of conflict.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Sudan’s grain production in 2023 dropped to 4.1 million tons, a 46% decrease from 2022. Key staples such as sorghum and millet accounted for the bulk of this output.

However,  recently, acting Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Dr. Abu Bakr Omar Al-Bushra, refuted allegations of famine during a press conference in Port Sudan.

He emphasized that recent reports were politically motivated and lacked proper data on malnutrition rates. The minister also highlighted the country’s agricultural potential, pointing to an expected summer grain harvest of 7-8 million tons, exceeding domestic needs.

Despite the setbacks, Al-Bushra praised the agricultural sector’s resilience, crediting partnerships with international organizations and private entities for successful preparations for the winter season.

“The progress made showcases Sudan’s ability to overcome challenges, even in the face of destruction caused by the violations of the Rapid Support Forces,” he said.

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