Cal-Maji Foundation Begins Capacity-Building Workshop on Agroecological Farming in Kogi »

The Cal-maji Foundation, in partnership with Barns Connect and Heinrich Boell Foundation has launched a three-day capacity-building workshop in Kogi State, focusing on agroecological practices. The workshop, which commenced on Wednesday, September 4th, aims to equip smallholder farmers, women’s groups, and youth with practical knowledge to boost food security, enhance livelihoods, and protect the environment.

Delivering his welcome address at the opening ceremony, Mr. Abdulkareem Onivehu, the State Coordinator of Cal-Maji Foundation, emphasized the workshop’s importance in the context of Kogi State’s rich agroecological zones. He noted that by embracing agroecological principles, the state’s farmers could create more resilient farming systems that are both economically viable and environmentally sustainable.

On her part, the Program Director of Cal-Maji Foundation, Mrs Faith Nemie Ayegba, urged the participants to take full advantage of the seminar to aquint themselves with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in agroecological practices which she described as a significant step towards sustainable agricultural development, enhance livelihoods, and protect the environment.

Hon. Timothy Ojoma, the Kogi State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, also addressed the participants, commending the organizers for their foresight and dedication to improving the agricultural sector. “This initiative aligns with our state’s commitment to promoting sustainable farming practices that not only ensure food security but also safeguard our natural resources for future generations,” Ojoma stated.

The first day of the workshop included presentations facilitated Mr Ado Mannasah, who took participants through a range of agroecological topics. These included afforestation, tree integration, organic farming, intercropping, and natural pest control methods. The sessions were designed to be practical and interactive, ensuring that participants could easily apply the knowledge gained to their farming activities.

One of the highlights of the event was the emphasis on afforestation and tree integration. Participants were educated on the importance of trees in maintaining soil health, preventing erosion, and enhancing biodiversity. The resource persons also demonstrated organic farming techniques, encouraging farmers to reduce their reliance on chemical inputs, thereby fostering healthier soils and crops.

The workshop is set to continue over the next two days with more lectures and visits to demonstration farms, where participants will have the opportunity to see agroecological practices in action. This hands-on experience is expected to reinforce the theoretical knowledge shared during the sessions, giving participants the confidence to implement these practices on their own farms.

The workshop will conclude on Friday, September 6th, with a closing ceremony where participants will share their experiences and insights gained from the training.