The Government of Bojonegoro continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to achieving food self-sufficiency through innovation in the agricultural sector. This effort was marked by the inaugural harvest of the Gamagora 7 rice variety, held in Bayamgede Village, Kepohbaru District, on Saturday (February 28, 2026). Carrying the theme “Towards Sustainable Food Self-Sufficiency in Bojonegoro,” the event represents a strategic collaboration between the Food Security and Agriculture Office (DKPP) of Bojonegoro Regency and Universitas Gadjah Mada in addressing climate change challenges while enhancing regional agricultural productivity.
The Regent of Bojonegoro, Setyo Wahono, emphasized in his remarks that agriculture remains a top development priority, considering that the majority of the local population depends on this sector for their livelihoods. He highlighted the importance of strengthening water management through the construction of reservoirs, river normalization, and irrigation infrastructure improvements as key factors for sustainable production. In addition, collaboration with UGM in the development of superior seed varieties continues to be encouraged to enhance agricultural competitiveness. “Our goal is not only to maintain productivity but to increase it to become one of the highest in Indonesia,” he stated optimistically.
The Head of DKPP Bojonegoro, Zaenal Fanani, reported that rice production in 2025 reached 886,443 tons, reflecting a significant increase of 24.7 percent compared to the previous year. This growth was supported by relatively favorable climate conditions and strategic government interventions, including the development of 24,248 meters of irrigation networks, normalization of 23 reservoirs, and installation of 16 water pumps. Furthermore, the intensity of farmer assistance through Agricultural Extension Officers reached 99 percent, contributing to the minimal occurrence of pest and disease outbreaks throughout the year.
During the harvest event, a representative from the Department of Plant Pests and Diseases UGM, Dr. Tri Harjaka, S.P., M.P., was also present as part of the academic team supporting sustainable agricultural development in Bojonegoro. His presence reinforced the importance of integrated pest management within cultivation systems, ensuring that increased productivity aligns with effective and environmentally friendly plant protection practices.
Looking ahead to 2026, agricultural challenges are expected to intensify, particularly with projections indicating a return to normal climate patterns and the potential for a dry season. This may reduce planting areas and overall production. Nevertheless, the Bojonegoro Government remains optimistic through various anticipatory measures, including the development of Gamagora rice demonstration plots in five districts: Dander, Ngasem, Kepohbaru, Sugihwaras, and Kedungadem. Field trial results have shown highly competitive productivity, reaching up to 11.4 tons per hectare in Bayamgede Village—well above the national average.
The Vice Dean for Cooperation at the Faculty of Agriculture UGM, Prof. Subejo, S.P., M.Sc., Ph.D., explained that the Gamagora variety (Gadjah Mada Gogo Ranca) is designed to be adaptive to varying environmental conditions, including both water surplus and deficit, and is supported by environmentally friendly technologies such as biofertilizers. This innovation is expected to address modern agricultural challenges, including soil degradation and limited water resources.
Through strong synergy between local government, academia, and farmers, the Gamagora 7 harvest in Bayamgede Village stands as a symbol of renewed optimism in establishing Bojonegoro as a resilient, innovative, and competitive sustainable food production hub at the national level.
This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 2 (Zero Hunger), Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), Goal 13 (Climate Action), and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Through the development of adaptive rice varieties such as Gamagora, strengthening irrigation infrastructure, and fostering collaboration among local government, academia, and farmers, this effort contributes to enhancing food security, promoting sustainable agricultural innovation, and building resilience against climate variability while reinforcing multi-stakeholder partnerships.
