(MAGWI COUNTY) – Female farmers in Pajok Payam in Magwi County in Eastern Equatoria State are urging women to join farming groups or form cooperatives to improve agricultural productivity, secure food and generate income.
Speaking to Voice of Freedom on Thursday, September 25, 2025, Mrs. Amoo Josephine Lokila, Chairperson of Cung Atii Farmers Group in Lagi Boma, emphasised the importance of group farming. She said being part of a cooperative allows women to access government and development partner support, including subsidised farm inputs and training.
“Support is rarely given to individuals,” she said. “Farmers working in groups receive more opportunities, including training and access to agricultural inputs.”
Another farmer, Auma Mary Polo from Onen I Tic Farmers Group, described her experience working alone before joining a group. She said it was difficult to secure agricultural inputs as an individual. Joining a group, she explained, has allowed women to grow together not only in agriculture but also in social life.
Akello Esther, Chairperson of Lubanga Ber Farmers Group, said membership in a group provides opportunities for mutual support and accountability. “Working in groups allows women to share experiences, solve problems collectively, and care for one another,” she said. Akello added that through their cooperative, members successfully planted cassava and groundnuts, which benefited each participant.
Last month, the County Director of Agriculture in Magwi encouraged farmers to form groups, describing them as vital for both social and economic development. Local partners and government agencies are increasingly focusing on cooperatives as a way to expand market access, increase income and provide training for smallholder farmers.
Benefits of Joining Farmers Groups in Pajok
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Access to subsidised inputs | Seeds, fertiliser, and tools provided by government and partners |
| Training and capacity building | Agricultural practices, cooperative management and financial literacy |
| Market access | Easier access to local and regional markets |
| Social support | Peer mentoring, accountability and shared problem solving |
| Income generation | Collective farming increases productivity and sales |
Farmers in Pajok continue to demonstrate that organised groups and cooperatives are a key tool for boosting productivity, income, and food security in the region.