Episode 45 of 90: Small holder farmers in the Perspective.
Based on FAO reports, one-third of food consumed globally is produced by #smallholder farmers, making it evident that the fight against hunger and food insecurity can be addressed through strategic agricultural solutions:
1. Agricultural #Mechanization for Smallholders: Providing smallholder farmers with access to agricultural machinery and #farm equipment can significantly boost productivity. Despite having ample arable land, many small-scale farmers lack the necessary mechanization tools to maximize yields.
2. #Hybrid and #Genetically Improved Seeds: Continuing to sow traditional or native seed varieties may perpetuate low crop yields. As researchers develop high-yielding hybrid crops and genetically modified seeds, it is crucial to ensure these advanced seed varieties reach the fields of smallholder #farmers.
3. Organic #Fertilizer Production: Encouraging farmers to create their own organic fertilizers can be a cost-effective and sustainable solution. This can be achieved by digging pits, adding fresh plant matter, food waste, and animal manure, and allowing the mixture to decompose for six months.
4. Postharvest Management Technologies: Providing smallholder farmers with postharvest management technologies, such as community-based silos, hermetic storage drums, solar cold-chain facilities, and #logistics solutions, can significantly reduce food losses. Minimizing #postharvest losses through proper storage and handling techniques, as emphasized by the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI Nigeria) led by Prof. Lateef Dimeji Sanni, can contribute to food security efforts ("save a grain 🌾, save a plate 🍽️").
5. Agricultural Extension and Outreach: Creating aggressive awareness campaigns and educational programs at the grassroots level is crucial. Universities, agricultural research institutes like the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute, and agencies should continue to organize events to educate smallholder farmers about recent developments in the #agricultural ecosystem, improving their income and contributing to national food #security.
#Sustainable agricultural practices, access to modern farming technologies, improved seed varieties, organic fertilizer production, postharvest loss reduction strategies, and targeted extension services are key to empowering smallholder farmers. By implementing these solutions, we can tackle hunger, improve food security, and enhance the livelihoods of millions of small-scale agricultural producers worldwide.
Agriculturalist, Change maker and pod leader with Roots Africa, Award winner Change maker of the year Mountains of the Moon University
2mo"Dear IFDC Team, I am impressed by the transformative impact of the BRIGHT project in Uganda, bolstering resilience among highland farm households against economic and climate-related adversities. As a soon-to-be graduate in Agriculture, I am eager to leverage my skills and knowledge to support sustainable agriculture development and rural transformation. With a strong academic foundation in agriculture and a passion for innovative solutions, I am confident in my ability to make a meaningful contribution to the BRIGHT project. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss potential graduate trainee or internship positions, supporting project implementation and knowledge sharing. Please find my contact details below: Email: adamzaugustine21@gmail.com Phone: +256 771068407 LinkedIn: Adam Augustine Mumbere I look forward to exploring opportunities to collaborate and drive impact in Uganda's agricultural sector. Best regards, Mumbere Adam Augustine