Central farmers losing money

FARMERS from Kairuku-Hiri in Central who rely on the sale of vegetables from their gardens are being hit hard by the national emergency triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Farmers Allan and Catherine Oa in Bereina estimate that they have lost about K2,000, equal to a month’s income.
They were visited by Agriculture and Livestock Minister John Simon recently.
Allan said for this month alone, about K2,000 worth of watermelons and other vegetables had been harvested but could not be sold.
Allan said people were so afraid of the pandemic that they did not want to touch the vegetables.
Wife Catherine said the Covid-19 has badly affected them economically.
Simon said the Department of Agriculture and Livestock was working on a plan to support farmers.
He said the country was yet to feel the real impact of the pandemic.
The watermelons sell for K15 to K20 each.
Simon bought 10 watermelons during the visit.