Empowering Farms: New Initiative Boosts Soybean Production in Kwara

Kwara State, Nigeria - In a delightful twist on sustainable agriculture, a unique partnership has bloomed in Kwara State, Nigeria. OLAM Agri has joined forces with IDH and Arzikin Noma to enhance soybean production, creating opportunities that stretch from the fields to the marketplace. This alliance aims to support about 5,000 smallholder farmers, particularly empowering women and young individuals in these communities. As Guardian reports, the initiative isn’t just about planting seeds; it’s about cultivating a robust agricultural framework.

The magic of this partnership lies in a comprehensive support program that spans credit facilities for essential farming inputs, mechanization, and training in sustainable practices. Farmers will also have access to financial assistance and market linkage, making their journey from the field to the marketplace smoother. On a grand scale, this project aligns with Olam Agri’s recently established 350,000 MT soybean processing facility in the region, which relies on locally sourced soybeans.

A Focus on Sustainability

At the heart of this initiative is a commitment to sustainability. Olam Agri has already contributed to the Kwara State Soybean Sustainability Programme by providing equipment and training for agricultural extension workers. According to Eniola Fabusoro, the Country Director at IDH, this effort bridges the essential gap between large corporations and smallholder farmers. By integrating these farmers into Olam Agri’s supply chain, they not only gain greater access to markets but also benefit from practices like crop rotation and organic fertilization.

In a similar vein, Zambia’s agricultural scene is experiencing its own transformative journey. The Practice for Change (PfC) Soy project began in 2018, aiming to address a knowledge gap in soybean production in Katete. As highlighted by Solidaridad, an assessment revealed that low yields stemmed from farmers‘ lack of understanding about soil fertility and reliance on recycled seeds. By providing training, technical support, and access to quality hybrid seeds, the project has reshaped the agricultural landscape for many farmers, like Mr. Lyson Tembo.

From Crops to Cash Flow

Mr. Tembo serves as a shining example of what this support can bring. After switching to soybean farming due to a cost-benefit analysis that showed soybeans were more profitable than maize, he thrived. His production jumped to 360 bags of soybeans during the 2020/2021 season, netting him 11,880 Euros. This success allowed him to support his large family, pay school fees, and even invest in a house and a motorbike.

The ripple effect of soybean cultivation isn’t limited to just individual farmers. In fact, advancements in agricultural technology are playing a crucial role in improving yields and practices. As noted by Soy Connection, innovations in biotechnology are transforming soybean farming. Farmers are now experiencing reduced herbicide applications, decreased pest pressures, and ultimately, increased yields and profits.

Tools such as GPS and satellite mapping have paved the way for precision farming, which enhances farm efficiency significantly. These developments not only tackle immediate agricultural challenges but serve to address broader global issues like malnutrition and climate vulnerability.

In conclusion, as farmers from Nigeria to Zambia innovate and support one another, we find hope in the sustainable agriculture sector. The efforts of OLAM Agri, IDH, and Arzikin Noma in Nigeria, alongside the successes of projects like PfC in Zambia, showcase the power of community, technology, and knowledge in shaping a brighter, greener future.