The Benue Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project has empowered no fewer than 53 women farmers in Otobi Akpa, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State with practical skills in organic fertiliser production through composting techniques.
Organised by the Environment and Climate Change Amelioration Initiative (ECCAI), the ACReSAL focal non-governmental organisation (NGO) for Benue South Senatorial District, the training equipped participants with knowledge on the production of organic manure using readily available local materials.
During the hands-on training session, the women were taught how to convert materials such as animal dung, green leaves, grasses, kitchen waste, dump-site soil, sawdust, rice stalks, and water into nutrient-rich compost capable of improving soil fertility and boosting crop yields.
TNT understands that the initiative forms part of ACReSAL’s efforts to promote climate-smart agriculture, encourage environmentally friendly farming practices, reduce dependence on chemical fertilisers, and strengthen food security in rural communities.
Participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity, describing the training as timely and impactful. They noted that the newly acquired skills would not only improve their farm productivity but also enhance household incomes while contributing to a healthier environment.
As part of the empowerment package, each beneficiary received a seedling of either Tenera palm or locust bean to support tree-planting efforts, promote environmental conservation, and create future economic opportunities for their families.
A spokesman for ACReSAL in the state said the programme underscores the project’s commitment to empowering women, building resilient communities, and advancing sustainable agricultural development across Benue State.
