By Chinedu Nsofor
Coscharis Farms, a subsidiary of Coscharis Group founded by Dr. Cosmos Maduka, is making waves with an ambitious blockchain farming initiative. The program is set to transform farming in Nigeria, bringing both innovation and accessibility to the agricultural sector.
Coscharis Farms Ltd has three significant operational units. These include a 2,500-hectare farmland in Anaku, Ayamelum Local Government Area, a 40,000-metric-ton rice milling facility, and a 25,000-metric-ton capacity silo, built by the federal government. These operational units are strategically designed to foster productivity and efficiency, especially in rice farming.
Through the blockchain farming program, Coscharis Farms offers farmers, including those growing various other crops, a unique opportunity to engage in mechanized farming without needing extensive land ownership. Farmers can lease parcels of the vast 2,500-hectare farmland, supported by state-of-the-art mechanization and agricultural technology.
One of the hallmarks of Coscharis Farms’ approach is the meticulous process laid out for each participant. Before planting begins, Coscharis and the farmers agree on suitable Economic of Production (EOP) cost. An agreement ensures each farmer has access to essential resources like land, crop protection, and necessary services for a profitable farming cycle is signed. Additionally, Coscharis provides access to crop protection chemicals, quality seeds, and drone services, often partnering with leading providers to offer a comprehensive support system.
The commitment to mechanized farming is evident in the range of machinery available to the farmers. Services include ploughing, harrowing, and ridging, all offered at a reasonable cost, thus minimizing labor and maximizing yields. Coscharis Farms has also incorporated drone technology for precision agriculture, ensuring crops receive targeted care, thereby optimizing growth and reducing chemical wastage.
The Managing Director, Mr Chinedu Okere confirmed that the blockchain initiative has created an inclusive ecosystem. At harvest, Coscharis Farms purchases all harvested paddy for processing in the 40,000-metric-ton mill, branded as “Coscharis Rice,” which has quickly gained popularity in the market. Though the rice is highly demanded, the current production volume scarcely meets the needs of the Anambra region, demonstrating both the quality of Coscharis Rice and the untapped potential for scaling the program.
In addition to supporting the main farming activities, Coscharis Farms has implemented flood-resilient infrastructure in response to the region’s vulnerability to annual floods from the River Niger. The company constructed a 23.5 meter high dyke to protect crops, further demonstrating the innovative foresight driving this project. Also, The farm’s blockchain initiative incorporates a custom-built satellite and app, designed to assist farmers in monitoring crops, tracking planting and harvesting schedules, and accessing data-driven insights. This innovative approach enables farmers to optimize their yields conveniently from their own zones.
Coscharis Farms’ blockchain farming program represents a milestone in Nigeria’s agricultural development, paving the way for sustainable, mechanized farming and enhancing food security across the region.