April 03, 2024

Transforming Nigerian Agriculture: The Youth-Led Tomato Farming Revolution

Fresh Produce

Nigeria

Nigeria's love affair with tomatoes is undeniable. This juicy staple adds vibrancy to stews, soups, and salads. But getting those tomatoes from farm to table can be a back-breaking affair, especially for young people, who make up most of the labour force behind their production.

For many years, small-scale farmers in Nigeria used basic tools like hoes and cutlasses to prepare their land. However, this traditional approach has been strenuous and time-consuming. It not only leads to physical exhaustion among farm workers but also results in delays in planting. These delays ultimately lead to lower crop yields, reduced profits, and negative impacts on the health of young farmworkers.

The consequences of these delays extend beyond tired muscles. Studies have shown that post-harvest losses of vegetables in Nigeria can be as high as 50%. This means that a significant portion of the potential harvest never reaches consumers. This contributes to a serious problem: micronutrient malnutrition. Vegetables such as tomatoes are important sources of essential nutrients. However, if they spoil before reaching families, it can have devastating health effects.

By addressing these challenges, we can improve both the livelihoods of farmers and the health of consumers.

To mitigate this, VD&L/Royal Blue Contractors and 2SCALE joined forces to tackle challenges like shortage of labour, lack of interest in farming by southern youths, and implementation of conservation agriculture. Their solution? A three-pronged innovation centred around a micro-mechanization tool called “the Hand Tiller Machine”. This diesel-powered wonder can plow a whopping 6 acres of land in just 8 hours, a 90% reduction in labour time!

The partnership purchased the equipment from the seller who provided technical training on the usage and operational maintenance of the hand tiller machines. Interested youths were selected from various agribusiness clusters (ABCs) within the vegetable partnership and trained on how to use and maintain these machines. These trained youths in turn provide tilling services to the members of the ABC’s and serve as operators and maintenance technicians.

The revolution to “Micro’’ Mechanization

With the Hand Tiller Machine at their disposal, farmers experienced newfound efficiency and productivity. Joseph, a seasoned farmer, once relied on manual labour, employing age-old techniques using a hoe and cutlass. However, the laborious process often resulted in delays, reduced yields, and reduced profits. It was a cycle that seemed unbreakable until a ray of hope emerged in the form of innovation. Joseph recalls how the once tedious task of land preparation became a breeze, enabling him to plant his crops in a fraction of time. The result? Reduced post-harvest losses and timely delivery of produce to the market, translating to increased profits and a better quality of life.

For 15 years, I used hoes and cutlasses, says Joseph. Finding labourers was a constant struggle, and planting was delayed. The tiller machine services changed everything. Now, we save time, money, and energy. It even helps us reduce post-harvest losses by getting our tomatoes to market on time!

But the benefits go beyond saving time. The availability of the Hand Tiller Machine bridged the labour gap, providing employment for the youths and an avenue for farmers to cultivate tomatoes year-round.

Ms. Adeyoju Bola, a young farmer, highlights the impact on her finances.

Before, using a hoe meant wasted time, high labour costs, and inefficiency. The tiller services changed that. It drastically reduced labour expenses and allows me to cultivate tomatoes year-round, even during lean seasons. This translates into higher income.

Forging ahead, a tale of success

The introduction of micro-mechanized services brought great relief to youth workers like Ademola Lukeman, who once laboured tirelessly in the fields as a manual labourer. Now a trained operator of the Hand Tiller machine, Ademola witnessed a significant improvement in his income and well-being. Gone were the days of body pains and reduced efficiency; instead, he found himself reaping the rewards of his labour, both financially and physically.

Manual ploughing was tough. It took me five days to do one acre, causing pain and limiting my clientele. Now, I can plow up to six acres in a single day! My income has gone up from ₦3,000 ($4) to ₦30,000 ($40) monthly, and I barely need pain medication anymore,

says Ademola.

This strategy isn't just about efficiency; it's about empowering young people. While accessing new equipment can be challenging, this initiative demonstrates the power of collaboration. Communities are not only benefiting from this technology but youths also becoming entrepreneurs by providing tiller services.

By equipping young people with the tools they need to thrive in agriculture, initiatives like the inclusive agribusiness model are not only transforming the industry but also paving the way for a brighter future for Nigerian youths. More nutritious food on our tables, more smiles on our faces!

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