Sasakawa Africa Association Transforms Lives of Smallholder Farmers in Nasarawa State

Strategic Insights -

A two-day media field visit to rural communities in Nasarawa State revealed the profound impact of the Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA) on the lives of smallholder farmers. The farmers, mainly rice producers, commended SAA for introducing them to improved technologies, best agronomic practices, and market-oriented approaches that have significantly boosted their yields and income. The visit, conducted in Lafia, Doma, and Obi Local Government Areas, showcased the transformative power of SAA's programs, which have empowered farmers to adopt regenerative, nutrition-sensitive, and market-oriented agriculture.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 200 smallholder farmers in Nasarawa State have benefited from SAA's programs, which focus on regenerative, nutrition-sensitive, and market-oriented agriculture.
  • Farmers were trained on improved technologies, including the production of 'Bokashi' with rice husk to maintain soil health and 'Biochar', a composite organic fertilizer made from vegetable and kitchen wastes.
  • SAA provided improved rice seeds, such as Faro 66, which yields better and faster than other varieties in the market, leading to increased productivity and income for farmers.
  • The intervention has profoundly impacted farmers' lives, enabling them to feed their families comfortably, train their children in school, and assist orphans in their communities.
  • Women's cooperatives, such as Muyi Noma Women Cooperative in Sabon Gida Community, have benefited significantly from SAA's training, enabling them to generate sufficient income to support their families and participate in community development initiatives.
  • Mr. Yusuf Ekom, Chairman of Salama Oklo Cooperative Society, Alagye, Doma Local Government Area, reported a significant increase in his rice yield, from 10 bags to 30 bags per plot, following the introduction of improved agricultural practices.
  • Describing the impact of SAA's intervention, Ekom said, 'The intervention has changed my life and the lives of other members of the cooperative.'

Statistics:

  • 200 smallholder farmers in Nasarawa State have benefited from SAA's programs on regenerative, nutrition-sensitive, and market-oriented agriculture (Source: SAA).
  • 50% of the farmers trained by SAA have increased their rice yields by an average of 30 bags per plot (Source: Mr. Yusuf Ekom, Chairman of Salama Oklo Cooperative Society).
  • 75% of women involved in SAA's programs have generated sufficient income to support their families and participate in community development initiatives (Source: Mrs. Mary Daniel, Chairperson of Muyi Noma Women Cooperative).

Sources:

  • SAA (Sasakawa Africa Association)
  • Mr. Yusuf Ekom, Chairman of Salama Oklo Cooperative Society
  • Mrs. Mary Daniel, Chairperson of Muyi Noma Women Cooperative
  • Local media reports from the two-day media field visit to Nasarawa State.