The Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA) has launched a training programme to empower local agricultural machine fabricators to reduce postharvest losses in Nigeria.
This effort is part of the Evidence-Based Regenerative Agriculture to Address Climate Change in Africa project, supported by Japan’s policy and human resource development grant (PHRDG 1) through the African Development Bank (AfDB).
The first training session, held at the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, gathered 20 local fabricators from Nasarawa State to learn multi-crop thresher production techniques. SAA’s initiative supports smallholder farmers by promoting affordable technology to enhance productivity and resilience amid climate change.
“This training shows our commitment to reducing postharvest losses by upskilling local fabricators,” said SAA Nigeria’s country director, Dr. Godwin Atser. “By building capacities to produce essential agricultural tools, we improve productivity and foster food and income security for farmers.”
One trainee, Usman Jibrin from Akurba, Lafia LGA, expressed gratitude, saying he plans to use his new skills to support farmers in his community.
IAR’s executive director, Prof. Ado Yusuf praised SAA for providing practical postharvest solutions. The training includes instruction on welding, metal cutting, and safety practices to equip participants with the skills to produce multi-crop threshers and other tools.
A statement by SAA’s communication officer, Moses Nongoatse, noted that the training for 20 fabricators from various LGAs in Nasarawa commenced on November 11 and will conclude on November 21, 2024.
