Bauchi Women Farmers Lead Agricultural Revolution Through Soybean Production
By Mijinyawa Ahmed,
Women farmers in Bauchi State are spearheading a silent agricultural revolution as they embrace soybean cultivation, transforming the once male-dominated venture into a symbol of empowerment, food security, and economic resilience.
Ms. Helen Chiroma, Head of Women in Agriculture at the Bauchi State Agricultural Development Programme (BSADP), stated this during a Soybean Mega Field Day held on Friday in Bauchi.
According to her, women’s cooperative groups across several local government areas have adopted improved soybean varieties and modern farming techniques, leading to higher yields and better incomes.
“Soybean production is no longer a men’s affair. Women have taken ownership, and their success stories are evident in every farming community,” she said.
Mrs. Sadiya Mohammed, a farmer from Dass, said soybean farming has significantly boosted the financial independence of rural women.
“Before now, we relied on groundnut and maize, which gave little profit. But with improved soybean seeds distributed to us, we’ve recorded bumper harvests. We now earn enough to support our families and educate our children,” she said.
Similarly, Madam Hauwa Mohammed from Birshi ward, who has cultivated soybeans for over a decade, said training and seed support from CASCADE and Seed Co have helped improve productivity.
“Soybean has become a lifeline for my household. Beyond income, I use it to make milk and porridge for my children. It’s been hard work, but the results are fulfilling,” she said.
Mr. John Agboola, Head of Marketing at Seed Co, explained that the field day was designed to celebrate women’s achievements and share lessons on improved cultivation and post-harvest practices.
The initiative is supported by CASCADE, implemented by partners including CARE Nigeria, GAIN, Seed Co, and the Development Exchange Centre (DEC).
Dr. Sabo Ahmed, an agricultural economist, praised the women’s participation, noting that their growing involvement in the soybean value chain is enhancing rural livelihoods and contributing to Bauchi’s food security and economic growth.
