By Nura Garba
In line with its mandate and to improve agricultural productivity and food security, the Centre for Dryland Agriculture (CDA) has conducted a comprehensive training program and distributed improved seeds to farmers from 22 adopted communities in Kano State.
Director CDA, Professor Jibrin Mohammed Jibrin, while addressing farmers and community leaders during a training programme, explained that the initiative is to train community representatives to foster a trickle-down effect benefit for all community members.
The training programme, which preceded the distribution of improved seedlings to the farmers held at the CDA complex at Bayero University Kano (BUK).
Prof Jibrin urged the beneficiaries of the training programme to share the knowledge gained with others in their respective communities to maximise its impact. He added that the CDA plans to continuously engage these communities, offering ongoing training on advanced farming techniques and collaborating to tackle agricultural challenges.
Following the training session, Professor Jibrin, accompanied by the Deputy Director Training, Professor Sanusi Gaya Mohammed and Dr Hakeem Ajiegbe, distributed both foundation and certified seeds to the farmers. The foundation seeds included varieties such as Samsorg 45, Samsorg 53, Chakti, Sosati, and Super Sosat. The certified seeds distributed were maize, rice, sorghum, and millet.
A number of the farmers expressed profound appreciation for the gesture, noting that previous seed distributions had significantly improved their yields.
Adamu Mohammed from Yanoko Community expressed his gratitude, saying, “Many farmers have inquired about the seeds provided by the CDA. We are extremely pleased with this new intervention, and the training has shown us the importance of proper seed care.”
Hajiya Hauwa from Doka Community praised the CDA for its support and training on best farming practices, stating, “Only God can reward the Centre for its contributions to our farming communities.”
Sulaiman Shehu from Ginsawa Community noted a positive shift in their agricultural approach following the training. “As a community representative, I am confident that our farmers will greatly benefit from the techniques and methods taught regarding the use of foundation and certified seeds,” he said, thanking the CDA for its continued support.
The CDA’s initiatives are poised to significantly enhance agricultural practices and productivity within these communities, reinforcing the Centre’s role in advancing food security and sustainable farming in the region.
