Foundation trains 28 seed producers, distributes agro-inputs to boost farming

The Foundation for Sustainable Smallholder Solutions, in collaboration with the HEINEKEN Africa Foundation, has launched an initiative to boost farming in Bauchi State. The program trained 28 community seed producers and distributed more than 1,000 agricultural inputs to farmers' hubs across the state.

“

Before now, farmers in this community had to travel long distances to buy quality fertilisers, chemicals and other farm inputs. With the Farmers’ Hub now stocked with these products, farmers can access what they need closer to their farms and at the right time.

This intervention specifically targets smallholder farmers in northern Bauchi, addressing their limited access to quality agricultural inputs and reducing reliance on informal seed sources. Mohammed Dahiru, Manager of the Bulkachuwa Farmers’ Hub, highlighted the practical benefits, stating that farmers will now access essential items like fertilizers and chemicals closer to their farms, saving on transportation costs and time.

The training, held in Azare, focused on practical seed production for rice, millet, sorghum, groundnut, and cowpea. Participants received instruction on seed quality management, varietal purity, field inspection, and certification. This training was prompted by a baseline assessment revealing that 87% of seeds used were farmer-saved or local varieties, with only 12% being improved or certified.

“

This support will make farming easier for many farmers because they can get quality inputs without spending extra money on transportation. We are grateful for the support and will ensure code continues to serve farmers effectively.

To further support this, each participating organization received foundation seeds, fertilizers, and crop protection products to establish community seed multiplication fields. These fields are expected to cover at least 21 hectares collectively, aiming to increase the availability of quality seeds in the region. Abigail Kwila, a training participant, expressed gratitude for the practical knowledge gained, enabling them to manage seed production as a business and meet certification requirements.

“

Before this training, many of us did not fully understand the requirements for producing quality seed. We have learned about proper seed production practices, certification requirements and how to manage seed production as a business.