‘Consult locals over crop consolidation’

MUSANZE - Local authorities have been cautioned against implementing the land and crop consolidation policy without prior sensitisation of residents. Legislator Marie Theresa Murekatete, made the remarks after meeting residents in Cyuve sector, following reports that some residents had opposed the latest policy.

Tuesday, October 06, 2009
Residents who gathered last week to resolve differences arising out of the new agricultural policy in Gataraga sector.(photo/ B. Mukombozi)

MUSANZE - Local authorities have been cautioned against implementing the land and crop consolidation policy without prior sensitisation of residents.

Legislator Marie Theresa Murekatete, made the remarks after meeting residents in Cyuve sector, following reports that some residents had opposed the latest policy.

Under the new consolidation policy, farmers are supposed to grow the same type of crop on merged plots contrary to the common practice of mixed farming.

Under the new system, local authorities in Musanze are encouraging extensive growing of potatoes and maize as well as other proposed crops.  

During the meeting, angry residents presented a list of 17 families whose sorghum crops had been forcibly uprooted to pave way for the new programme.   

The residents criticised the local authorities especially the cell leaders for enforcing the new move against the will of the locals. In return the local authorities accused residents of being uncooperative in ensuring that the new policy is implemented.  

Murekatete advised residents to fully cooperate with authorities, saying the consolidation policy was in line with the agricultural transformation program-which is meant to improve national food security.

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