The She Farmers Initiative, a group for women in agriculture, has called on female farmers to work in clusters to thrive in Nigeria.
The National President, Mrs. Temitope Ande, made the call in an interview with reporters on Wednesday in Lagos.
The She Farmers Initiative is a Nigerian organization dedicated to empowering women-led agricultural businesses, promoting gender equity, and enhancing food security. It helps transition rural women from subsistence farming to profitable commercial agribusiness through training, modern technology, and improved inputs, aiming to empower 10 million women.
Ande noted that most women farmers are based in rural areas, highlighting the need for cluster farming to succeed in the sector.
“Data shows that over 70% of women farmers operate in the agricultural ecosystem, mainly in primary production. These women are in remote areas where commercial-scale farms are available.
“To help women thrive, She Farmers promotes cluster farming. Women in different regions grow crops suited to their local soil. By coming together in clusters, they can increase productivity and succeed collectively,” Ande explained.
She emphasized that collaboration allows women to benefit from government and stakeholder support.
“Identifying women farmers in an ecosystem and providing large tracts of farmland enables co-thriving. They gain access to financial support, modern inputs, and technology for land preparation and production.
“Clearing land is expensive, but if 20 women farmers join forces to clear 100 hectares, the cost per farmer drops significantly,” she said.
Ande stressed that farming alone is less effective. “Commercial farmlands run by individuals or women-led corporate teams work better when operated in clusters. Collaboration provides support from agronomy groups and assistance in harvesting.
“Farming isn’t just planting; management after planting is crucial. With rising population demands, we must change food production models and empower women farmers, who account for 80% of those ensuring food security in Nigeria.”
