Big news for Naija farmers! Women in Mechanisation Agriculture (WIMA) is rolling out a massive plan to equip one million women farmers across Nigeria with cutting-edge agricultural technologies by 2030. This initiative aims to transform the food system, boost incomes, and build resilience against climate change. Let’s dive into what this means for Nigeria’s food future!
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Goal: Empower 1 million women farmers by 2030.
- Focus: Providing access to modern agricultural technologies.
- Impact: Improved food systems, higher incomes, and climate resilience.
- How: Capacity building, access to mechanization, policy advocacy, and market linkages.
WIMA: Empowering Women, Transforming Agriculture
WIMA’s President, Aisha Yakubu Bako, made it clear at the launch in Abuja: “Our plan is to build a future where no woman is too rural, too poor, or too marginalised to access technology, finance, and opportunity.” Started in 2019 by a small group of passionate women, WIMA is targeting the grassroots, ensuring even the most disadvantaged farmers benefit.
The Four Pillars of Progress
WIMA’s strategy rests on four key pillars:
- Capacity Building: Training women to operate tractors, harvesters, and other essential machinery. They’re also using mobile learning platforms, thanks to partnerships like TrackTrack.
- Access to Mechanisation: Ensuring women have access to the tools they need, from tractors to water pumps.
- Policy & Advocacy: Pushing for policies that support women in agriculture.
- Market Linkages: Connecting rural farmers with urban markets, creating investment opportunities.
Solar-Powered Hubs: A Game Changer
With support from PropCom Plus, WIMA has already established 12 solar-powered mechanisation service hubs across Nigeria. These hubs bring renewable-energy-powered equipment like threshers and water pumps to women in remote areas. This ensures that even those in hard-to-reach places can benefit from modern technology.
Bridging the Urban-Rural Divide
WIMA is also working to connect urban investors with rural service providers. This cost-sharing model allows urban residents to invest in mechanisation tools, fostering partnerships that benefit everyone involved. It’s a win-win situation!
Call for Support
Bako emphasized the need for more support from the government, financial institutions, and donor agencies. “When women rise, food systems rise. When women mechanise, productivity scales. And when women are involved in decision-making, nations prosper,” she stated.
Concerns Over Marginalisation
Dr. Aisha Umar, Chairperson of WIMA’s Board of Trustees, highlighted the increasing marginalisation of women farmers. Many still rely on basic tools due to a lack of access to mechanised equipment. WIMA aims to change this by collaborating with various stakeholders to provide the necessary support.
WIMA’s Impact So Far
WIMA has already made significant strides, reaching about 300 women in Kaduna State. The plan is to expand this initiative across Nigeria and eventually throughout Africa, ensuring more women have access to the tools they need to succeed.
The Bigger Picture: Agriculture in Nigeria
Agriculture is a massive part of Nigeria’s economy, employing a huge chunk of the population. According to the World Bank, agriculture accounts for about 24% of Nigeria’s GDP. Empowering women in this sector is not just about gender equality; it’s about boosting the entire nation’s economy.
What’s Next?
With WIMA leading the charge, the future looks bright for women farmers in Nigeria. By providing access to technology, training, and markets, WIMA is setting the stage for a more sustainable and prosperous agricultural sector.
So, let’s get ready for a farming revolution, powered by women and driven by technology!