Benue Farmers Magazine

01/05/2025

27/04/2025

FARMERS AND THE PRINCIPLE OF MULTIPLICATION

There is no success without the application of the principle of multiplication. This principle is a natural and basic principle that every farmer understands.

Farmers' wisdom in using this principle of multiplication in tough times involves understanding the laws of harvest and applying them strategically.

No matter how much times are tough, farmers do not eat away there seeds. They believe in seedtime and harvest,
They are guided by some key insights about the Laws of Seedtime and Harvest.

1. The Harvest is Limited to the Planting: Farmers know that they can only harvest what they plant. This principle emphasizes the importance of sowing seeds generously to reap a bountiful harvest.

2. The Harvest Comes Later than the Planting: Farmers understand that there's a time gap between planting and harvesting. This requires patience and persistence, especially during tough times.

3. The Harvest is Greater than the Planting: A single seed can multiply into multiple harvests, providing a substantial return on investment. This principle encourages farmers to invest in quality seeds and care for their crops.

4. The Harvest is Proportional to the Planting: The amount of seeds sown directly affects the harvest. Farmers who plant more seeds can expect a greater harvest, while those who plant sparingly will reap minimally.

5. We Can't Change This Year's Harvest, but We Can Change Next Year's: Farmers recognize that past decisions affect current outcomes. However, they can adjust their strategies to improve future harvests.

To apply this principle of multiplication effectively, farmers should:

1. Invest in Quality Seeds: Planting high-quality seeds increases the chances of a bountiful harvest.

2. Care for Their Crops: Proper care, including irrigation, fertilization, and pest control, ensures healthy plant growth.

3. Diversify Their Crops: Planting multiple crops can help farmers adapt to changing environmental conditions and market demands.

4. Be Patient and Persistent: Farmers must be willing to wait for the harvest and persevere through challenges.

Biblical Perspective of the Principle of Multiplication

The principle of multiplication is also reflected in biblical teachings. According to 2 Corinthians 9:6, "Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously." This principle encourages farmers to be generous in their sowing, trusting in God's provision and multiplication. Isaac also applied this principle according to Genesis 26:12, Isaac sowed in the land and received a hundredfold harvest.

Think like a farmer.
Think like Awai David Tarfa
Think like Shenge Michael
Benue Farmers Magazine
Benue Agriculture and Food Systems Changemakers
Benue Agriculture and Food Systems Changemakers

17/04/2025

Another day at Soilless Farm Lab with Benue youth making us proud.

Benue Farmers Magazine
Benue Agriculture and Food Systems Changemakers
Benue Agriculture and Food Systems Changemakers
Shealife Agro-Tech Consultants

16/04/2025

TAKING THE BENUE YOUTH INTO THE FUTURE OF AGRICULTURE FOR FOOD AND JOB CREATION

The power to shape the future belongs not just to a few, but to all of us who are willing to make a change. Leading the change of the Benue youth in agriculture landscape is Hon. Ochanya Okoh, technical adviser to His Excellency the Executive Governor Benue State, Ahen Akawe Co-ordinator Benue Agriculture and Food Systems Changemakers
CEO Tarufa Awai David Tarfa
CEO Akasekwa Industries Viviane Blaq
CEO/ Co-Founder The Star Farmer Africa / Shenghait Global Ltd Shenge Michael

Therefore, through EYia over 50 youths from Benue state were sent to Soilless Farm Lab for youth training in construction and practice of soilless farming, to empower young people with valuable skills and knowledge, and support the development of sustainable agriculture and food systems.

The Youth training in construction and practice of soilless farming can provide valuable skills and knowledge for young people who are interested in agriculture and sustainable food systems.

Soilless farming, also known as hydroponics or controlled environment agriculture (CEA), is a method growing plants without using soil. Instead, plants are grown in a controlled environment, such as a greenhouse or indoor facility, using nutrient-rich water or other growing media.

We hope you'll be inspired to support this movement, Let's together build bridges, spark change, and shape a future of Agriculture and food systems in Benue state.
Baloo Jnr behind the Camara


Benue Agriculture and Food Systems Changemakers
Shealife Agro-Tech Consultants

16/04/2025

We're Benue Agriculture and Food Systems Changemakers

Benue youths making us proud in Modern Agriculture. A new day for our Benue youth at Soilless Farm Lab undergoing training in construction and practice of soilless farming for sustainable food systems.

Hon. Ochanya Okoh see your doing well Shenge Michael Awai David Tarfa Viviane Blaq

15/04/2025

Benue Agriculture and Food Systems Changemakers

15/04/2025

WHY UNEDUCATED PEOPLE DOMINATE THE AGRICULTURE SECTOR OVER GRADUATES OF AGRICULTURE

This is a complex issue with multiple factors contributing to it. Here are some possible reasons:

Lack of Practical Experience
1. Theory vs. Practice: Agriculture graduates may have a strong theoretical foundation, but they often lack practical experience in farming. In contrast, uneducated farmers have hands-on experience and skills passed down through generations.
2. Disconnect between Education and Reality: The agricultural education system may not adequately prepare graduates for the realities of farming, leading to a disconnect between theory and practice.

Socio-Economic Factors
1. Poverty and Limited Job Opportunities: In many developing countries, including Nigeria, poverty and limited job opportunities may force uneducated individuals to engage in farming as a means of survival.
2. Cultural and Traditional Practices: Agriculture is often deeply rooted in cultural and traditional practices, with uneducated farmers being more connected to these practices and more willing to adopt them.

Psychological and Attitudinal Factors
1. Risk Aversion: Agriculture graduates may be more risk-averse and less willing to take on the challenges and uncertainties of farming.
2. Perception of Farming: Some agriculture graduates may view farming as a low-status profession, leading them to seek alternative careers.

Systemic and Structural Factors
1. Lack of Support Systems: The absence of effective support systems, such as extension services, credit facilities, and market access, can make it difficult for agriculture graduates to succeed in farming.
2. Inadequate Infrastructure: Poor rural infrastructure, including roads, storage facilities, and irrigation systems, can hinder the ability of agriculture graduates to engage in farming.

Other Factors
1. Age and Experience: Uneducated farmers may have an advantage in terms of age and experience, having started farming at a younger age and having accumulated knowledge and skills over time.
2. Network and Community: Uneducated farmers may have a stronger network and community ties, which can provide them with access to resources, information, and support.

These factors are interconnected and can vary depending on the specific context and location. Addressing these challenges will require a comprehensive approach that involves governments, educational institutions, and other stakeholders.

Benue Agriculture and Food Systems Changemakers
Benue Farmers Magazine
Benue Agriculture and Food Systems Changemakers
Shealife Agro-Tech Consultants

30/03/2025

THE MIND OF FARMERS AS THE WET SEASON BEGINS

As the wet season begins, the mind of farmers are filled with a mix of emotions - hope, excitement, and a hint of anxiety. After months of dry spells, the prospect of rain brings relief and joy, as it quenches the thirst of their parched lands and replenishes water sources.

Farmers are eager to plant new crops, knowing that the rain will bring life to their fields. They're busy preparing their lands, selecting the right crops, and planning their farming schedule to ensure a bountiful harvest. The rain also brings a sense of rejuvenation, washing away the summer dust and turning dry grass into nutrient-rich soil.

However, farmers are also aware of the challenges that come with the wet season. They worry about excessive rainfall, which can lead to flooding, soil erosion, and crop diseases. They must be vigilant and take proactive measures to mitigate these risks, such as implementing good drainage systems and using integrated pest management strategies.

Despite these challenges, farmers are optimistic and resilient. They know that the wet season brings opportunities for growth and renewal, and they're eager to make the most of it.

Benue Agriculture and Food Systems Changemakers
Benue Agriculture and Food Systems Changemakers
Benue Farmers Magazine
Shealife Agro-Tech Consultants

20/03/2025

AGRICULTURE A TRUE RELIGION OF GOD WITH FARMERS BEEN THE PRIESTS

Practicing Agriculture is doing God's will, for me, I just want to do God's will.

Genesis 2:15, it is written:

"The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it."

This verse emphasizes God's instruction to Adam to cultivate and care for the Garden of Eden, which was a paradise created by God.

Key aspects of God's instruction:
1. Work: Adam was to work the garden, which implies cultivating, planting, and harvesting.
2. Take care: Adam was also to take care of the garden, which involves protecting, maintaining, and preserving it.

Human beings are indeed alive on earth because of plants and animals, which provide us with the necessary resources for survival. Here are some ways in which plants and animals support human life:

Plants:
1. Oxygen production: Plants produce oxygen through photosynthesis, which is essential for human respiration.
2. Food source: Plants provide fruits, vegetables, grains, and other edible products that are essential for human nutrition.
3. Shelter and clothing: Plants like cotton, h**p, and flax provide fibers for clothing and textiles, while trees and other plant materials are used for building shelters.
4. Medicines: Many plants are sources of medicines, such as antibiotics, painkillers, and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Animals:
1. Food source: Animals provide meat, dairy products, eggs, and other edible products that are essential for human nutrition.
2. Clothing and textiles: Animals like sheep, goats, and cattle provide wool, leather, and other materials for clothing and textiles.
3. Transportation and labour: Domesticated animals like horses, donkeys, and oxen have been used for transportation and labour throughout history.
4. Companionship and social support: Animals like dogs, cats, and other pets provide companionship, social support, and emotional well-being.

Interconnectedness:
1. Ecosystem services: Plants and animals work together to provide ecosystem services like pollination, pest control, and nutrient cycling.
2. Food chains and webs: Plants and animals are interconnected through food chains and webs, which support the balance of ecosystems.
3. Biodiversity: The diversity of plants and animals supports ecosystem resilience, adaptability, and overall health.

In conclusion, human beings are indeed alive because of plants and animals, which provide us with the necessary resources for survival, from food and shelter to clothing and companionship.

Benue Agriculture and Food Systems Changemakers
Benue Farmers Magazine
Benue Agriculture and Food Systems Changemakers

08/03/2025

Happy International Women's Day to Women in Agriculture!

To all the incredible women who work tirelessly in agriculture, we celebrate you today!

Your dedication, resilience, and passion for farming are truly inspiring. You play a vital role in feeding our communities, preserving traditional practices, and driving innovation in agriculture.

We recognize the challenges you face, from limited access to resources and markets to social and cultural barriers. But we also celebrate your strengths, including your ability to multitask, adapt to change, and nurture life.

Today and every day, we honor your contributions to agriculture and to our global food systems. May your hard work and perseverance continue to flourish, and may your voices be heard and valued.