Towards the end of 2024, had the privilege of attending the Women and Youth in Small-Scale Agribusiness (WAYFARC) conference, organized by the Nigerian Agribusiness Group and supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The event focused on innovation, networking, policy dialogue, and awards, offering a powerful reminder of the need for a modern, business-oriented approach to agriculture in Nigeria. This was a great opportunity for Duketrah Fisheries and myself personally since I was invited to speak at the conference. Here are some of the insights that I would like to share with you as we begin 2025.
Key Takeaways from the Conference
1. The Need for a Paradigm Shift in Agriculture
Traditional farming practices in Nigeria often fall short of meeting the demands of today’s competitive markets. The conference underscored the importance of transitioning from subsistence farming to a profit-driven, sustainable agribusiness model. Key components of this shift include:
- Market Research: Identifying market demand, profitable fish and agricultural products, and potential buyers to ensure profitability.
- Value Addition: Transforming raw materials like fish into processed products such as smoked fish, fish oil, and flakes to maximize value.
- Financial Management: Employing sound financial planning, tracking expenses, and accessing credit and investment opportunities.
- Technology Adoption: Utilizing innovative tools such as mobile apps for market trends, weather updates, and connecting with buyers to boost productivity and profitability.
2. Women and Youth as Catalysts for Change
Women and youth play a pivotal role in driving agricultural innovation in Nigeria. Their unique strengths include:
- Entrepreneurial Spirit: A strong determination to build sustainable and scalable businesses.
- Adaptability: Openness to embracing modern technologies and innovative practices in fisheries and agribusiness.
- Community Engagement: Leveraging strong social networks to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.
However, challenges persist, including limited access to land, finance, and technology, as well as insufficient training and market access for small-scale farmers.
3. The Role of Support Systems in Agribusiness Success
The conference highlighted the critical need for support systems to empower women and youth. Key recommendations included:
- Government Policies: Introducing policies that provide access to credit, training, and subsidies for small-scale agribusinesses.
- Mentorship and Training: Equipping farmers with essential business, technical, and financial skills through workshops and mentorship programs.
- Access to Technology: Ensuring affordability of tools like smartphones, internet connectivity, and processing machinery for fish farming and other agricultural ventures.
- Market Linkage: Facilitating connections between farmers and buyers through cooperatives, online platforms, and producer organizations.
Moving Forward
The WAYFARC conference served as a call to action to rethink agriculture and embrace the potential of women and youth to transform Nigeria’s fisheries and agribusiness sectors. The event inspired actionable steps, including:
- Empowering Women and Youth: Providing the necessary resources, training, and mentorship to succeed in agribusiness.
- Fostering Innovation: Encouraging the adoption of sustainable farming practices and new technologies in fisheries and agriculture.
- Strengthening Communities: Promoting collaboration and knowledge sharing within farming networks.
- Advocating for Policies: Working with policymakers to create an enabling environment for agribusiness growth.
By implementing these principles, Nigeria can unlock the potential of its fisheries and agriculture sectors, creating sustainable livelihoods and fostering economic prosperity.
A Platform for Networking and Collaboration
The event was graced by notable personalities, including the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Kwara State, the Commissioner for Environment, Kwara State, a delegation representing the Ministry of Agriculture in Kogi State, and members of the Small-Scale Women Farmers Organization of Nigeria (SWOFON). Attendees had the invaluable opportunity to network with potential partners and stakeholders committed to advancing Nigeria’s agribusiness sector.
Together, we can reimagine the future of agriculture, foster sustainable fish farming practices, and empower Nigeria’s next generation of agripreneurs.
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