WACHEF Links Farmers to Markets, Promotes Agroecology at Jalingo Town Hall Meeting
From Hilary John
The Women and Children Health Empowerment Fund (WACHEF) has held a town hall meeting on market access and linkage under its SPAC Project, aimed at expanding sustainable market opportunities for small holder farmers in Taraba State.
The meeting, held at Galaxy Spot, Jalingo, was organised by WACHEF with support from ActionAid Nigeria and other partners.
It brought together key stakeholders across the agricultural value chain to discuss strategies for strengthening agroecology and improving farmers’ access to markets.
In her welcome address, the Executive Director of WACHEF, Mrs. Beden Margu Barnabas, represented by Mrs. Faiza Abubakar Yaro, said the organisation was marking its 25th anniversary with renewed commitment to sustainable agriculture.
She explained that the SPAC Project is designed to reduce farmers’ dependence on inorganic fertilisers while promoting environmentally friendly farming practices.
She thanked participants for their continued support and noted that WACHEF has implemented several impactful interventions across Taraba State.
She also commended the management of the Taraba Agricultural Development Programme (TADP), particularly the Director of Extension, for sustained collaboration.
Speaking at the event, the Director of Extension, TADP, Mrs. Robia Yoila, said extension agents play a critical role in educating farmers on modern farming techniques, harvesting, storage, preservation and demonstration practices.
She added that extension services also support farmers by linking them to markets, financial institutions and potential buyers.
Founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of WACHEF, Dr. Garba Danjuma, stressed the importance of agroecology and the use of organic, locally sourced fertilisers instead of chemical inputs.
Dr Garba Danjuma
He warned that the excessive use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides poses serious health and environmental risks, urging farmers to take the training seriously.
Also speaking, Mr. Nuhu Manasseh, Extension Agent for the Northern Zone of Taraba State under the SPAC Project, outlined the benefits of agroecology.
He encouraged farmers to adopt practices such as tree planting on farms, composting organic waste and minimising the use of chemical pesticides.
According to him, these practices help conserve soil, improve yields and ensure safer food production.
In an interview after the meeting, Mr. Manasseh said the town hall provided a platform for farmers, cooperatives, transporters, marketers and other stakeholders to review progress under the agroecology project.
He noted that discussions focused on linking farmers to wider markets, improving marketing skills and using media platforms to reach buyers beyond their local communities.
He disclosed that the initiative session would be extended to other local government areas to strengthen climate resilience among farmers across the state.
Stakeholders at the meeting included officials of the Taraba Agricultural Development Programme (TADP), members of the Female Lawyers Association (FIDA), human rights groups, marketers, transporters, farmers and cooperative societies.
