By Ahmed Ahmed
Farmers in Bauchi Lauded an NGO Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Center (CISLAC) over Intense agricultural awareness on radio for smallholder farmers (SHF) in the state.
Our Correspondent reports that CISLAC is implementing an awareness programme Fili ga Manoma an interactive Agricultural Extension Service (AES) for Smallholder farmers on Globe FM Bauchi with the support of Oxfam.
A farmer and radio caller Maman Kausal Kandahar appreciated sponsors of the programme, she said the project is impactful and educative to farmers.
Awareness was focused on responsible and safe use of crop protection products, use and spray of insecticide fertilizer, management of pesticides, land clearing , seedlings among others.
“Lack of awareness and source of getting the personal protective equipment amongst Smallholder farmers and Spray operators has always raised a concern on the risk of unprotected exposure while handling and applying Crop Protection products,” She said.
Malam Hamidu a farmer said the programme is effective and apt, saying when farmers start clearing and commencement of farming activities this rainy season.
He said the radio programme had reached grass root level to spread awareness amongst farmers on good agricultural practices and the importance of using appropriate, seeds , fertilizer and insecticide.
“The messages spread during awareness amongst farmers, covered a wide range of topics from.clearing of farms to cropping and cultivation,” he said.
Also a radio caller Mr Samuel Alexandra from Dass commended CiSLAC for Initiating the programme for smallholder farmers to be educated this farming season.
Farmers learned much from the different experts featured on the radio programmes on Sundays.
The expert touch many topics that are useful to farmers especially in the communities such as correct spraying techniques, maintaining sprayers and nozzles, triple rinsing of used containers.
“Raising awareness on Counterfeit, substandard and unregistered, unlicensed pesticides to educate farmers and create awareness that spurious illegal products must not be used despite compelling prices.
“Transportation and secure storage of crop protection products, understanding the label, judicious and responsible use of crop protection products, personal health and hygiene,
“Creating awareness and building capacity of stakeholders including farmers, agriculture input dealers, agricultural extension staff would encourage food security,” Alexandra Said.