Edo State Govt. empowers rural women farmers with sprayers, fertilizers

The Edo state ministry of social development and gender issues has empowered women farmers in Uhumwode Local Government Area with agricultural inputs to boost crop production.

The inputs included sprayers, fertilizers, and manure, aimed at improving productivity in the local agricultural sector.

Mrs. Christabel Ekwu, the State Commissioner for Social Development and Gender Issues, on Thursday in Uhumwode, praised the women’s resilience and contributions to agricultural development in the state.

Ekwu noted that the inputs were part of the ministry’s gesture to support the women’s efforts in ensuring food security across the state.

“Your efforts are deeply appreciated. You are breadwinners, change-makers, and innovators, contributing immensely to the progress of our great state,” she said.

The commissioner reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting women farmers and addressing the challenges they faced.

Mr Stephen Idehenre, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, stressed the need to invest in empowering women with skills, education, resources, and rights for community resilience.

In his welcome address, Kenneth Adolfo, the Uhumwode Local Government Council Chairman, commended the state government’s efforts to address the challenges faced by women farmers in different communities.

Additionally, the women were trained in modern farming techniques by Senior Agricultural Extension Officers, Mrs. Pamela Izevbigie and Mrs. Mercy Osayomore, of the Edo Agricultural Development Programme (ADP).

The event’s high point was the presentation of agricultural inputs, including sprayers, fertilizers, and manure, to the farmers by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Barbara Osobajo.

The distribution of the inputs was part of activities to commemorate the International Day of Rural Women, observed worldwide annually on Oct. 15.

NAN / Foluke Ibitomi