Bajil: The Community Seed Bank was inaugurated in Bajil District, Al Hodeidah Governorate, implemented by the Bajil Multi-Purpose Agricultural Cooperative Association. The seed bank, under the supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, the local authority of the governorate, and the Agricultural Cooperative Union, in partnership with the Central Agricultural Area at the Tehama Development Authority, aims to enhance food security and support farmers with improved local seeds.
According to Yemen News Agency, Dr. Ibrahim Al-Saraji, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries for Plant Resources, considered the launch of the community seed bank a strategic step for seed preservation and maintenance. He praised community seed bank initiatives for their role in conserving plant genetic resources, achieving agricultural sustainability, and reducing reliance on imported seeds. He also commended the level of partnership and coordination between official and community bodies in implementing the seed bank, which involves the local authority and mobilization office in Bajil District, the Agricultural Cooperative Union, the General Authority for Agricultural Research and Guidance, the Bonyan Development Foundation, and the General Corporation for Cereal Development and Production.
Ali Qadi, Head of the Tehama Development Authority, and Abdullah Al-Wadaei, Director of the General Corporation for the Multiplication of Improved Seeds, emphasized that implementing such initiatives and specialized projects is a key factor in supporting agricultural communities and enhancing their ability to face challenges. They highlighted the importance of continuing partnerships with the Ministry of Agriculture and related entities to carry out specialized projects that improve seed quality, preserve local varieties, and increase production efficiency.
Meanwhile, Abdul-Munim Al-Rifai, Director of Bajil District, expressed the local council's pride in launching the community seed bank, affirming the council's full support for agricultural and development projects that improve farmers' livelihoods and strengthen their resilience. Adel Sam, Head of the Bajil Multi-Purpose Agricultural Cooperative Association, stated that the establishment of the community seed bank reflects the integration of efforts between the association and its partners. He noted that it aims to provide farmers with high-quality seeds at affordable prices, with management guided by technical and organizational mechanisms to ensure its sustainability and expand the beneficiary base.