News in brief:
– Niger State farmers are urged to adopt dry season farming to combat drought.
– The government is promoting drought-resistant crops and supporting farmers with resources.
Farmers in Niger State are being encouraged to embrace dry-season farming as a shield against the region’s unpredictable weather patterns.
According to the state’s Ministry of Agriculture, the little dry season, which began in July, is expected to end soon, but the threat of future droughts looms large.
To mitigate the impact of these dry spells, the government is urging farmers to adopt drought-resistant crops like TELA maize. These hardy varieties have proven their resilience in previous seasons and can significantly boost farmers’ yields.
“We must move away from traditional farming methods,” Dr. Mathew Ahmed, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, emphasised. He highlighted the importance of modern farming techniques and the availability of improved seeds to help farmers thrive, even in challenging conditions.
To support this shift, the state government is partnering with organisations like FADAMA N-CARES, IFAD, and ATASP to provide farmers with the necessary resources and training. By embracing dry season farming and adopting new agricultural practices, Niger State farmers can increase their resilience and ensure a more stable food supply.
