The Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA) has launched a three-year project to support 100,000 small-scale farmers improve the productivity and competitiveness of maize and soybean in Kaduna and Niger States.
The project, “Enhancing the Productivity and Competitiveness of Maize and Soybean Value Chains,” is funded by AGRA and was inaugurated at an inception meeting in Kaduna with partners, farmers, and extension agents.
SAA Country Director, Dr. Godwin Atser, said the project will target 50% women, 40% youth, and 5% persons with disabilities.
“We’re adopting a market systems approach that ensures access to improved seeds, better practices, and guaranteed markets,” he said.
Tackling Low Yields and Weak Supply Chains
AGRA Programme Officer, Esther Ibrahim, noted that farmers face challenges such as poor soil fertility, low-yielding varieties, and limited financing.
She said the initiative aims to raise yields by 35% and strengthen seed systems and cooperatives.
“Farming is no longer just subsistence, it’s a business,” Ibrahim added.
Kaduna Agriculture Commissioner, Murtala Mohammed, represented by Vasty Shamaki, praised the initiative, saying it will boost farmers’ income and benefit the wider economy.
The project is co-implemented by AFEX, Premier Seeds, and Da All Green Seeds, in partnership with Kaduna and Niger State governments.
