My Message to the Ministry of Agriculture in Gaza: This is a Matter of Utmost Urgency…
It seems that we are heading quickly towards a complex food crisis in Gaza due to the ongoing events between Russia and the world. The rapid rise in the price of flour, bread, and all grains in Gaza is deeply alarming. As those responsible for the welfare of 2.5 million people in Gaza, it is critical for you to think seriously and practically about how to cultivate and develop local corn and wheat production and store as much as possible to secure at least the near future. It is clear that this will not be an easy task, especially for vulnerable nations like ours.
Currently, more than 1,200 dunams in Gaza are dedicated to growing tobacco, with 800 dunams in Al-Qarara and 400 dunams in the north, among others. It is time to stop growing unnecessary secondary crops that deplete the fertility of the soil and waste scarce irrigation water. We do not need cigarettes, watermelons, melons, strawberries, or ornamental plants. What we need are corn and wheat for the poor. Grow for the weak and hungry, and secure affordable flour for them to protect them from hunger. Prepare the fields and warehouses, and store what grain and crops you can. We do not know how long the war in wheat-producing countries will last, nor how its consequences will affect us. Major nations that once supplied half the world’s wheat are now focused on their wars, and others have halted grain exports to secure their domestic supplies. This is the food security of the people, the source of governance, and the state’s power, as seen recently with India.
The global market will see wheat and corn being sold on the black market to the highest bidder, the one who holds power and fear. We cannot afford this. I hope you do not leave things to “luck” or “complacency,” as often happens, where we eventually pay a heavy price. Listen to the experts’ plans, involve specialists in the discussion, form an emergency team, and provide them with all the support, protection, and funding needed. Don’t you know that some families in Gaza cannot even manage their needs in times of calm? How will they survive with the soaring prices? And you will be held accountable for them.
O Allah, protect us from calamities and the loss of blessings. You are the protector and capable of everything…
