BUJUMBURA January 21st (ABP) – The oil palm crop cultivated in the Imbo and Moso region is no longer productive as before, say farmers in Isare and Mubimbi communes.
According to our source, the old variety which is cultivated and which gives a very appreciated oil has degenerated for lack of renewal of the germplasm or introduction of new, very productive varieties.
The oil palm has always provided a great income to households testifies Ezéchiel Misago of the Martyazo zone in Mubimbi commune. “Our parents supported themselves and sent their children to school thanks to this culture,” he explained, adding that it is the same for their neighbors in the Benga zone in Isare commune.
The Director of Environment, Agriculture and Livestock (DPAEE) Mr. Daniel Mazarahisha contacted on Wednesday by the check by ABP to find out why people no longer feel interest in this crop and indicated that the oil palm cultivated in Isare, Kanyosha, Kabezi and Mubimbi communes no longer provides enough income as before, indicating that the old variety cultivated in that province has degenerated and that people are not open to new varieties.
Instead, he recommends that farmers switch to new varieties that give high production instead of keeping the old variety.