The Enugu Fadama Platform, under the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme, has trained 408 farmers on the effective utilization and maintenance of power tiller machines to enhance agricultural productivity and improve livelihoods of farmers in the area.

At a 3 day training workshop held in 6 locations for farmers from 51 Farmers Community Associations (FCAs), drawn from the 17 LGAs, the Head Technical Services, Enugu Fadama, Engr. Godson Onugwu explained that the training was crucial, as it will enable them to increase their productivity, reduce labour costs, and enhance their overall livelihoods.

Engr Onugwu affirmed the State Government commitment to supporting farmers in Enugu State, saying that the workshop demonstrates its dedication to empowering them with modern farming techniques. He commended the efforts of the Enugu State Government under the leadership of His Excellency, Dr. Peter Mbah in empowering farmers with mechanized system of agriculture, saying that such gesture is a step in the right direction.

According to him, the training was also aimed at equipping the farmers with necessary skills and knowledge to optimize the use of power tiller machines distributed to them by the State Government.

He enjoined participants to take the training seriously in order to maximise the positive impact towards agricultural productivity and food security.

One of the participants, Mr Benson Udeh who spoke on behalf of the farmers, appreciated the State Government and Fadama team for organizing the training.

Describing it as an eye-opener and life changing experience, Ude who is from Amoli Farmers Community Association (FCAs) in Awgu LGA said “I never knew how to properly maintain a power tiller machine until this training. Now, I can confidently operate and repair it, which will significantly improve my farm’s productivity, it’s been very informative and practical”.

The training culminated in a field test-run, where participants had the opportunity to operate the power tiller machines and experience their practical application.

Correspondent reports that Some areas which they were trained include Power tiller machine operation and safety precautions, Maintenance and troubleshooting techniques, Soil preparation and planting methods as well as best practices for machine repair and maintenance.