By Lizzy Carr
The Catalyzing Strengthened Policy Action for Healthy Diets and Resilience (CASCADE) project, through its Farmers’ Field and Business School, is empowering women with nutrition-sensitive agriculture skills to combat malnutrition in Bauchi, Jigawa, Kebbi, and Nasarawa states.
Program Manager of CASCADE, Mr. Isaac Audu, stated this during the Farmers’ Field Day held at the CASCADE model farm, located at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Gubi Campus, Bauchi.
He explained that CARE, the global lead of the CASCADE initiative, promotes the Farmers’ Field and Business School approach to support climate-resilient practices among smallholder farmers.
According to him, CASCADE has organized “train-the-trainer” programs enabling university faculties to provide technical support to Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) staff in the implementing states.
“We are working closely with the Association of Deans of Faculties of Agriculture in selected universities, who are driving the integration of this approach into their curriculum. In the long run, students will graduate with hands-on knowledge in agricultural extension services, bridging the gap in access to vital farming information,” he said.
He added that CASCADE is collaborating with academic institutions to close the technology gap and support ADPs in implementing field-level agricultural practices.
Mr. Audu emphasized that promoting the consumption of locally grown crops is a sustainable solution to the rising problem of malnutrition in the states.
During the event, the university showcased various nutrient-rich crops such as okra, eggplant, onion, pumpkin, and gboma sika. Women smallholder farmers were also trained on how to prepare nutritious meals using the harvested vegetables.
Representing ATBU, Dr. Rashida Abdulmumin noted that the crops would not only improve household nutrition but also serve as a source of income for women.
“For those with limited space for backyard gardening, experts have demonstrated how to grow crops in sacks and plastic containers. These practices will help increase yields and food security,” she said, urging the women to share the knowledge with others in their communities.
Also speaking at the event, the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture at ATBU, Professor Ambrose Wamba, said the model farm is designed to equip students with practical skills to replicate the approach in their local communities.
Bauchi State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Iliyasu Gital, commended the Farmers’ Field Day and Business School initiative, describing it as a strategic approach in the fight against malnutrition in the state.
