Smallholder farmers in Nasarawa State have called for the consistent implementation of policies that ensure sustainable access to agricultural grants for rural women. They say such support is essential for boosting food production and improving nutrition in local communities.
The farmers made this appeal during a two-day workshop in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital, aimed at equipping them with knowledge on financial linkages and resources to enhance agricultural productivity.
Strengthening Policies for Sustainable Agriculture
The workshop was organized for smallholder farmers, agribusiness owners, and small and medium-scale enterprises to enhance their understanding of financial institutions that provide funding for food production initiatives.
The initiative is part of the Catalyzing Strengthened Policy Action for Healthy Diets and Resilience (CASCADE) programme, funded by the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The programme aims to combat malnutrition across Bauchi, Jigawa, Kebbi, and Nasarawa states.
Mr. Isaac Ishaya, Project Manager of CASCADE, stressed the need for a multidimensional approach to achieving healthy diets, including capacity building and improved access to agricultural facilities for rural women.
“For us to achieve a sustainable food system, rural women and smallholder farmers must have access to financial resources and training,” Ishaya stated.
He further called for stronger collaboration between the government and relevant organizations to raise awareness on the importance of harnessing local resources to fight malnutrition.
Financial Access: A Key to Food Security
A financial expert and workshop resource person, Mr. Christian Ediagbonya, emphasized that access to financial facilities is fundamental for sustainable and quality food production in rural communities.
“Without proper financial support, smallholder farmers struggle to improve their yield and maintain food quality. Access to grants and loans is critical for long-term agricultural success,” he noted.
On her part, Hajiya Halima Yusuf, Chief Nutrition Officer of the Nasarawa State Ministry of Health, highlighted malnutrition and stunted growth as major factors limiting economic development.
“Providing smallholder farmers and agribusiness owners with adequate resources will go a long way in ensuring households have access to nutritious food,” she emphasized.
Farmers Gain New Perspectives
Participants at the workshop, including Mrs. Kadijat Yahaya and Mrs. Patience Phillip, expressed optimism, saying the training provided new insights into quality food production.
“This workshop has opened our eyes to better ways of improving food quality and linking with financial institutions for support,” said Kadijat Yahaya.
The event featured group discussions and interactive question-and-answer sessions, allowing farmers to share their challenges and explore practical solutions for improving food security. (Radio Nigeria)