"We have shown the project members proactive methods of cultivation such as draining of swamps, preparation of seed beds, proper care for crops, and application of irrigation systems using pipes and water reservoirs," said project officer Maj. Mahboob Alam.

Begun by the community in July 2009, the project supported the growing of vegetables like cabbages, tomatoes, okra, eggplants and onions as well as rice-planting.

Western Equatoria State Governor Jemma Nunu Kumba noted that most people in the state lacked the knowledge to use available resources. "Peace ... means guaranteed food security, sustainable peace of mind and enough ability to use," the governor said, pledging 2,000 SDG ($895) to support the association's endeavour.

Bangladeshi Sector Commander Col. Sanaul Haque complimented the group for producing plentiful yields on a small piece of land. "I urge you to ... make these 10 bags (700 kilograms) of rice you got last year ... more than 100 kilogram bags this year."

Association advisor Obedia Israel said the association was formed in an effort to eradicate poverty. "Instead of begging food from other organizations, we thought that we had the potential and energy to produce our own food."

The 25 by 50 metre piece of land the association had started with could expand into three hectares this year with support from the Bangladeshis, Mr. Israel said. "The good yields we have today have shown to us that there is survival in the swamps."

People had laughed, the advisor said, when they saw the association draining the muddy swamps. "Later when they saw the rice and vegetables, the mindset of the community greatly changed."

Association chairperson Mary Yapeta Wenepai said the group's success had motivated many people to join it, while others had been inspired to begin similar projects.

CIMIC Officer Maj. Dilip Kumar noted that UNMIS had donated $25,000 to five community based organizations in Southern Sudan last year, of which Yambio received $5,000.

Observing that most livelihoods in the state depended on agriculture, WES Minister of Agriculture Mathew Udo requested UNMIS support in acquiring machinery to convert products into finished consumable goods.

Formed in March 2009, the Ikpiro Sub-Parish Women Agriculture Association has 65 members (45 females and 20 males).