Jayapura, Papua – The Papua Provincial Government continues to show its commitment in strengthening the agricultural sector as a pillar of regional food security. This is marked by the distribution of 43 units of agricultural tools and machinery (alsintan) in the form of tractors by the Governor of Papua, Mathius D Fakhiri, to farmers in Swentab Village, Kemtuk Gresi District, Jayapura Regency.
The handover of the aid was carried out in conjunction with the first rice planting activity of two hectares which was held on Saturday, as the first step to encourage an increase in agricultural production in the region.
In his statement, the Governor of Papua said that this alsintan assistance is part of the government’s efforts to improve the quality and productivity of the agricultural sector, especially for local farmers in Papua.
“This assistance is a form of government support in improving the quality of the agricultural sector, so that farmers can be more optimal in managing their land,” said Mathius D Fakhiri.
He emphasized, his direct presence in Swentab Village became a real manifestation of the government’s attention to the development of community-based agriculture. According to him, the support of production facilities such as tractors is very important to speed up the land cultivation process and increase the efficiency of farmers’ work.
“With the support of this facility, we hope that the community will be more motivated to develop farming businesses sustainably,” he added.
In addition to increasing productivity, the government is also committed to strengthening the bargaining position of farmers in the distribution chain of agricultural products. One of the steps taken is to encourage farmers to no longer depend on tengkulak in marketing their crops.
This effort is expected to be able to improve the welfare of farmers as well as create a more independent and competitive agricultural system in Papua.
With the distribution of alsintan and continuous support from the local government, the agricultural sector in Jayapura Regency is expected to develop faster and become one of the main supporters of food security in the Papua region.
