#ACReSAL #IMPACT
Kentors Multipurpose Cooperative Society Limited in North Bank Community, Makurdi, is experiencing a surge in rice production thanks to the Benue ACReSAL (Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes) project and its Community Revolving Fund (CRF) loan program. Comrade Philip Swende, 41-year-old President of the cooperative, reports a significant increase in farm size and yield after receiving a ₦7 million loan.
For years, Kentors Multipurpose Cooperative, comprised of local farmers, struggled with insufficient capital to purchase necessary farm inputs and improved rice varieties. Their annual production was limited to 3 hectares, yielding approximately 60 bags of 100kg of rice per season. After repeated unsuccessful attempts to secure loans, they learned about the ACReSAL CRF loan program during a sensitization campaign in their community.
Following rigorous training and screening, Kentors was selected as one of five beneficiary Community Interest Groups (CIGs) in the North Bank Community. The loan, presented by Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia and the World Bank team, spurred the cooperative to action. The Governor encouraged citizens to increase agricultural production, emphasizing its potential to improve livelihoods.
Using the ACReSAL loan, disbursed in three tranches, Kentors expanded their rice farm from 3 to 10 hectares. Despite a setback where 3 hectares were submerged by flooding from the River Benue, they still harvested 200 bags of rice (100kg). They are currently hoarding their produce, anticipating a rise in commodity prices to maximize profits for bullet loan repayment.
Further capitalizing on training received from Benue ACReSAL on Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA), the cooperative has ventured into dry season farming, utilizing a nearby dam. They’ve cultivated 2 hectares of rice, employing solar-powered irrigation pumps, in anticipation of a bumper harvest of at least 80 bags of 100kg.
“We are incredibly grateful for the ACReSAL CRF loan,” said Comrade Swende. “It has transformed our cooperative and our ability to provide for our families.”
Kentors Multipurpose Society Limited now plans to expand their farm size to 15 hectares in the upcoming rainy season. The ACReSAL CRF loan intervention has led to several positive changes for Kentors Multipurpose Cooperative Society Limited, including:
Increased farm size: From 3 to 10 hectares.
Increased rice yield: From 60 to 200 bags of 100kg each.
Adoption of Climate Smart Agriculture: Engaging in dry season farming, leading to climate resilience.
Expanded membership: From 25 to 57 members.
Increased inter-loaning: Improved financial activity within the cooperative.
The success of Kentors Multipurpose Cooperative Society Limited serves as a testament to the impact of the ACReSAL program in empowering local farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Benue State.