East Nusa Tenggara (ANTARA) - Social Affairs Minister Tri Rismaharini suggested that residents of Golo Wune Village, East Manggarai District, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), make the most of their fertile lands to make profits instead of leaving the village.

She expressed belief that Golo Wune Village is blessed with fertile soil that can help its residents achieve prosperity.

"You do not need to go far, as you can run businesses and make food here. I think you can plant corn and other crops using your environments. The government will help provide the seeds and agricultural equipment," she told local villagers on Sunday.

Rismaharini then encouraged the villagers to develop livestock farms in the village, noting that the Ministry of Social Affairs is ready to provide them with the livestock animals they desire.

For instance, she said, the ministry will help those wishing to run a chicken farm to produce eggs that can either be sold or consumed.

"That way, you can fulfill the nutritional needs of your children," she pointed out.

The minister then emphasized the importance of the villagers strengthening their self-reliance, so they will not have to rely on anyone.

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Furthermore, Rismaharini told the villagers that her office would work together with higher education institutions and experts of agriculture and farm to assist them in tapping into the potential of their fertile lands in the hopes of boosting the economy of Golo Wune Village.

"But, please, do not leave this village," she appealed to local men and youngsters.

She further said that her ministry would carry out labor-intensive programs in the village, such as road repairs and development of water canals for irrigating crop fields and delivering drinking water.

"Those participating in the programs, including mothers, will be paid," she concluded.

During her visit to the village, Rismaharini also participated in the distribution of assistance in the form of groceries and devices for persons with disabilities.

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Translator: Mecca Y, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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