From Magnus Eze, Enugu
No fewer than 90 farmers in two rural communities of Enugu State have been equipped with skills in modern and safe farming techniques in a bid to strengthen agricultural practices and climate resilience among the communities.
South Saharan Social Development Organization (SSDO) and The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) in collaboration with The Nigeria Climate Justice Alliance, successfully held the Agroecology for Climate Resilience and Food Security (AGROCRAF) project.
The four-day intensive workshop which ends on Saturday at Eke and Amagu Oduma in Udi and Aninri LGAs, respectively, was facilitated by an official of the Enugu State Ministry of Agriculture.
The farmers actively participated in the workshop, gaining invaluable insights into agroecological approaches to farming and climate-safe agricultural practices after being taken through the use of organic fertilizers, dry-season farming, and the adoption of improved seedlings.
Addressing the participants, the Head of Programme, SSDO, Mr. Udochukwu Egwim, underscored the pivotal role farmers play in ensuring the nation’s future food security.
He urged the participants to prioritize and apply the learnings from the workshop in their day-to-day farming activities. Recognizing the significance of a holistic approach, the training went beyond agricultural techniques, and guided the farmers through establishing cooperatives and securing grants and loans.
“The interactive sessions were not just theoretical; farmers actively engaged in practical exercises to reinforce their understanding of the concepts discussed. As a tangible outcome of the workshop, each participant received improved palm seedlings, symbolizing a tangible step towards the practical application of sustainable agricultural practices,” Egwim said.
The visibly elated farmers commended the organizers for their foresight in addressing their needs. Their joy emanated from the realization that the training enhanced their farming knowledge and equipped them with the tools and resources to forge ahead with sustainable and resilient agricultural practices.
With the successful staging of the AGROCRAF workshop, organisers said the communities of Eke and Amagu Oduma stand poised to embrace a future where agriculture harmonizes with ecological balance, offering a beacon of hope for a more secure and sustainable food supply for the entire country.