To advance agriculture and improve food security in Nigeria, IITA–CGIAR continues its field demonstration trials of the PROSSIVA Method in two local governments in the southwestern Oyo State.
The events took place in Agunrege and Lagbanda local government areas on 4 and 5 October, showcasing the PROSSIVA Method and engaging the local community, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among farmers, motivating them to actively participate in and promote sustainable agriculture.
To ensure farmers receive only top-quality and disease-free seed yams, IITA has devised new technological certification methods. The mini set technique involves cultivating seed yams from tiny, disease-free yam sets (tubers). This method generates superior planting material while successfully halting the spread of diseases, according to PROSSIVA Project Lead Morufat Balogun.
IITA Goseed, Sahel Consulting, NASC, and two other partners also offered training on marketing strategies, seed certification procedures, and data use in farm management.
According to Joshua Ojedeji, chairman of the Agunrege Agbewumi association, the old yam that farmers are planting is full of disease, and there is a large loss in marking it. But the IITA types are the best to start a successful yam business.
Some farmers refused to plant the seed yams given to them since they all mistakenly believed them to be groundnuts. However, they were amazed when they saw the results from their fellow farmers’ fields. Sakius Oladunni, a farmer from Lagbadunda, appreciated IITA for the opportunity. “Even though the Regis we use for it is small, it produces a decent yield, though the IITA seed is so tiny and we ignore it that it won’t grow,” said Oladunni.
The PROSSIVA Method’s impact on yam seed propagation and its contribution to enhancing farming productivity and sustainability is commendable. By addressing issues related to seed quality, knowledge dissemination, and market access, these initiatives contribute to the overall development of the agricultural sector and the well-being of farmers in the region.
Contributed by Victoria AdabaleContribué par
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