The Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises Project for the Niger Delta, LIFE-ND, on Tuesday sensitised farmers in Abia on the effects of climate change, nutrition mainstreaming and basic farming techniques.
The farmers, from different communities in the 10 local governments of the state, received training at a session in Umuahia, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN.
LIFE-ND is a project initiated by the Federal Government in partnership with the International Fund for Agricultural Development, IFAD, and the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC. Its aim is to address food insecurity in the nine Niger Delta states.
Dr. Uchenna Onyeizu, the State Project Coordinator for LIFE-ND, stated that the 500 farmers were educated about climate change and its impact on the environment. They were also informed about the importance of tree planting to reduce the effects of climate change.
Onyeizu mentioned that the farmers received training on various aspects including basic farming techniques, bookkeeping, nutrition, hygiene, and sanitation. He added that the beneficiaries would be part of 1500 others attending a training program in the state.
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The empowerment process follows an incubation model, where beneficiaries go through different sessions to prepare them for their ventures. During the working session, they learn about the project’s goals, the duration of their stay in incubation centers, and other relevant details.
Furthermore, Onyeizu highlighted the importance of teaching accounting to help beneficiaries maintain good records for their businesses. Chigozie Kanu, the LIFE-ND Environment and Climate Change Specialist, emphasized the significance of tree planting. He stressed that planting trees locally can have a positive impact globally, underscoring the importance of such actions for environmental sustainability.
Mr. Godwin Chukwuekezie, the State Agribusiness Promotion Officer for LIFE-ND, mentioned that the beneficiaries would receive training at various incubation centers focusing on four agro commodities.
These commodities include poultry, oil palm processing, rice, and cassava production.
A participant named Smart Nwaegusoro from Ugwunagbo Local Government expressed appreciation to LIFE-ND, stating that the sensitization had prepared him for the empowerment program.
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