Ibadan: The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS) on Friday empowered 60 small-scale women farmers and people with special needs on sack farming and home gardening with farm tools and seedlings. The event took place during a one-day workshop and sensitisation programme for selected women across the South-West Zone in Ibadan.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Permanent Secretary of FMAFS, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, emphasized the potential of sack farming and home gardening to revolutionise food production levels in Nigeria. Represented by the FMAFS South-West Zonal Coordinator, Mrs. Temitayo Alao, Ogunbiyi highlighted that this method, which requires minimal space, is ideal for both urban and rural areas. By adopting these practices, individuals can not only enhance household food security but also contribute to the nation’s overall food sufficiency.
Ogunbiyi further acknowledged the crucial role women play in the agricultural sector and the importance of inclusivity for people with special needs. He expressed confidence that with dedication to sack farming and home gardening, Nigeria could achieve agricultural sovereignty by promoting local food production and consumption.
Mrs. Zara Kachallah, Director of Special Duties at FMAFS, stated that the initiative aligns with the ministry’s commitment to inclusive agricultural development. She noted that the training supports Sen. Oluremi Tinubu’s pet project, ‘Every Home a Garden’, and the Renewed Hope Initiative for Women Agricultural Support Programme, which aims to empower rural women and people with special needs with essential skills.
Dr. Perpetual Iyere-Usiahon, the workshop facilitator, described sustainable home gardening as an eco-friendly farming approach that enhances food security and biodiversity while preserving the environment and natural resources. She mentioned that this approach benefits both the environment and individuals by providing fresh produce, fostering a connection with nature, and reducing reliance on external resources.
Mr. Oluwatoyin Adefesobi, the State Director of FMAFS, stated that the workshop is one of the strategies employed by the ministry to empower rural women across various communities. Adefesobi underscored the potential of home gardening and sack farming to improve food security, empower marginalised groups, and transform the nation’s agricultural landscape.
Mrs. Kehinde Babalola, a participant from Ogun State, shared that the workshop enlightened her on innovative methods for achieving bumper harvests from home gardening and sack farming. The News Agency of Nigeria reported that participants from each of the six states in the South-West Zone received starter packs containing hand shovels, seedlings, and other farm tools.