8,950 Farmers Trained in Manure Production in Benue

In Benue State, 8,950 smallholder farmers across eight Local Government Areas have been trained to produce their own manure as part of an agricultural intervention by the Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA), supported by The Nippon Foundation (TNF). This initiative aims to reduce fertiliser costs and enhance soil fertility.

Nathaniel Otene, SAA’s Technical Coordinator for Climate Resilient and Sustainable Agrifood Systems, disclosed this during a media field trip to demonstration farms in Cheedu, Gwer-East, and Luga, Gboko LGA. The programme encourages farmers to convert animal manure, leaves, and crop residues into compost, promoting biochar for improved soil health.

The training, in collaboration with the Benue State Bureau of Agricultural Development and Mechanization, covers various crops, including soybean, maize, rice, and horticultural products. Beneficiary Patience Kwaghgba noted that the training has improved farmers' knowledge of manure production and crop management, transforming their approach to farming from subsistence to a business model.