Farmers in Bauchi State have been trained in climate-smart agriculture

Educational events were held as part of the social and behavioral change communication campaign. The project is implemented with financial support from the HEINEKEN Africa Foundation and Nigerian Breweries PLC, and is aimed at combating practices that lead to vegetation burning, deforestation, decline in soil fertility, erosion, and land degradation. As stated by Clinton Inene, Brand and Communications Manager for the Foundation, the initiative is designed to reduce farmers' vulnerability to droughts and unpredictable rainfall.

During practical sessions, farmers mastered tree planting and protection, fire prevention, soil conservation methods, water management, mulching, composting, as well as the application of manure and organic fertilizers. Participants were also introduced to earth bunds and half-moons, which slow down water runoff, reduce erosion, and improve moisture absorption. The campaign reached 21,000 farmers, including 12,442 women and 13,850 young people. In addition, farmers were informed about the services of FSSS hubs, where improved seed, production inputs, mechanization, climate information, and market opportunities are available.

The ESTRRA project aims to directly reach 14,000 smallholders and restore 29,000 hectares of degraded land in the Bauchi North region. Local farmers Musa Abdullahi and Hauwa Ibrahim noted that the knowledge gained has transformed their approach to soil and water management, enabling them to use crop residues for mulching and retain soil moisture in their fields.