At the core of IITA–CGIAR‘s mission is the unwavering commitment to improving livelihoods across sub-Saharan Africa and creating systems where cutting-edge research seamlessly meets the real world. This commitment was demonstrated in a recent, transformative outreach event for female yam farmers, a collaborative effort between Radio IITA and the IITA Yam Breeding Program. The outreach initiative, celebrated for its practical, hands-on approach and focus on value addition, aims to empower farmers and significantly enhance their livelihoods across the continent.
The yam outreach event focused on women farmers and providing the resources to become leading seed yam producers in south-west Nigeria.
The event, vibrant with the energy of dedicated female farmers, underscored the pivotal role women play in agriculture and food security. IITA Head of Communication, Katherine Lopez, celebrating the participating women during her welcome remarks, said, “These incredible women are the backbone of our communities, tirelessly nurturing their homes and fields. IITA-CGIAR stands firmly with them, offering unwavering support as they cultivate not just crops, but also a brighter future for their families and nations.” Highlighting IITA’s dedication to creating equitable opportunities within the agricultural sector, where Social Science and Agribusiness initiatives have a wide-reaching impact, “this enables IITA to put its innovations and breakthroughs into use and see how they shape policy, production, and people’s lives,” Lopez added.
Dajie Blessing Odok, Radio IITA Lead, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing IITA-CGIAR’s deliberate efforts to uplift women farmers. “At Radio IITA, and indeed throughout IITA, we are committed to celebrating and empowering women. This program, specifically designed to train them as seed yam farmers, is a testament to that commitment,” Odok stated. She proudly referenced the impact of previous initiatives, noting, “The impressive results from last year’s outreach and the heartfelt testimonies we’ve received speak volumes about how Radio IITA’s farmer outreach is truly empowering women farmers and fostering sustainable growth.”
The comprehensive training session was led by Dr Pelemo Olugboyega, Manager Field/Seed System, IITA-Yam Breeding Program. He guided the women through the steps of seed yam production, emphasizing their crucial role in the agricultural landscape. “We specifically identified women for this program because of their dedication, and vital contributions to the entire yam value chain,” Dr Pelemo explained, stressing the strategic importance of their involvement.
Further reinforcing the program’s reach and ambition, Dr Asrat Amele, Head of IITA-Yam Breeding Program also addressed the participants, outlining the broader activities of the Yam Breeding Program. Dr Amele affirmed IITA’s ongoing dedication, stating, “IITA is eager and ready to train even more women in seed yam production. Our goal is to expand this initiative, ensuring that knowledge and resources are accessible to as many aspiring female farmers as possible.”
A highlight of the outreach was the immediate application of learned skills. In a display of practical learning, the women farmers, guided by the Yam Breeding Program team, transitioned from the venue to the field, where they applied their newfound, science-based knowledge on seed yam production, demonstrating a readiness to implement best practices.
The next crucial step took the outreach participants to the processing unit for hands-on learning in yam value addition. This segment of the training was designed to improve both their skills and potential income. Participants learned various techniques for processing yams into marketable products, including flour, chips, and even fortified yam-based foods. This focus on value addition not only extends the shelf life of the produce but also opens up new avenues for income generation, allowing the women to tap into broader markets and increase profitability beyond raw yam sales. By transforming their harvest into diverse products, they are poised to significantly boost their economic independence and contribute more to their local economies, directly aligning with IITA’s goal of improving livelihoods.
The enthusiasm and determination of the female farmers were palpable throughout the program. Olusayo Olajide, a participant from Oyo State, shared her excitement, “This training has been a game-changer. Getting our hands dirty in the field for seed yam production and then learning about value addition – it’s all so practical and empowering. I feel equipped to do so much more with my yam harvest.”
Another farmer, Modupe Adeoluwa, added, “I’ve always grown yams, but now I see how I can turn them into different products and earn more. Radio IITA and IITA have truly opened my eyes to new possibilities.”
This collaborative effort between Radio IITA and the IITA-Yam Breeding Program is a clear demonstration of IITA’s unwavering commitment to empowering women farmers across Africa, ensuring they have the knowledge, skills, and resources to thrive as key players in the agricultural sector and ultimately, improve their livelihoods through real-world application of research breakthroughs.
Contributed by Bamise Dada
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