The persistent issue of herder-farmer conflicts, often stemming from the encroachment of grazing livestock onto farmlands, poses a significant threat to agricultural productivity and livelihoods, particularly for cassava and potato farmers. These crops, while vital for food security and income generation in many regions, are vulnerable to damage by grazing animals. A promising solution to mitigate this challenge and foster sustainable...
In a significant step towards promoting sustainable agriculture and mitigating the impact of climate change, Ayosifam Integrated Service Limited has officially commenced the enrollment of smallholder farmers in Kwara State for its innovative carbon credit program. This initiative aims to empower local farmers by providing them with the resources and financial incentives to adopt climate-smart farming practices. The program, which kicked...
Calcium is a vital nutrient for plant growth, playing a crucial role in the health and productivity of crops. Smallholder farmers can identify calcium-rich land by observing specific visual cues and characteristics. Here are some of the key indicators: 1. Soil Texture and Colour: a. Texture: Calcium-rich soils tend to have a slightly gritty texture due to the presence of calcium carbonate. This can be felt by rubbing the soil between your...
Calcium is an essential secondary macronutrient for plant growth, playing a crucial role in cell wall structure, cell division, and nutrient uptake. For farmers cultivating crops like cassava and potatoes, ensuring adequate calcium levels in their soil is paramount for achieving optimal yields. Here's a guide on how to ensure your land provides the necessary calcium: Understanding Calcium's Role: a. Cell Wall Strength: Calcium strengthens plant...
Embarking on a cassava farming venture holds immense potential, but success hinges on strategic planning and a clear understanding of the market. Before you invest significant resources into planting, consider a crucial step: forging a strong relationship with a cassava processing company. Why Partner with a Processor? a. Guaranteed Market: One of the biggest challenges farmers face is finding a reliable market for their produce. By having a...
Potato farming in Nigeria holds significant potential, but timing is crucial for maximizing yields and profitability. While many factors influence a successful harvest, planting potatoes between October and March offers distinct advantages over later planting, leading to better financial outcomes for farmers. Understanding the Climate Dynamics: Nigeria experiences two primary seasons: the wet season and the dry season. The period from October...
Nigeria's agricultural sector, a cornerstone of its economy, faces a dire threat: the escalating violence perpetrated by cattle herders, kidnappers, and bandits against smallholder farmers. These attacks, often involving land seizures, destruction of crops, and displacement, are not merely localized conflicts; they represent a systemic assault on the nation's food security and a major driver of rural poverty. The government must urgently...
Food security is a cornerstone of national stability, and in many regions, it is threatened by factors like climate change, land degradation, and conflicts between farmers and herders. Governments can play a crucial role in mitigating these challenges by establishing dedicated farmland settlements focused on staple crops like cassava and potatoes. This approach not only boosts food production but also creates employment opportunities and...
Venturing into cassava processing can be a lucrative endeavor, but establishing a strong foundation through cassava farming offers significant advantages. Here's a breakdown of why cultivating your cassava crop before launching a processing factory is highly beneficial: 1. Ensuring a Stable and Predictable Raw Material Supply: Control over Quality: By farming your cassava, you have direct control over the quality of the raw material. This...
In the realm of root crops, the sweet potato stands as a nutritional powerhouse. While yellow-fleshed varieties have long been a staple, the orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) is emerging as a superior choice, offering numerous benefits for both farmers and consumers. Here's why farmers should prioritise cultivating OFSP: 1. A Vitamin A Powerhouse: OFSP is exceptionally rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. This vital nutrient plays...
