In its pilot phase, Benue ACReSAL has distributed Climate-Smart farm implements to the Oweto community in Agatu Local Government Area, reinforcing its commitment to building climate resilience and improving rural livelihoods across the state.
The State Project Coordinator, Bldr. Victor Ama, represented by the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, Engr. Samson Naakaa informed members of the community that the ACReSAL Project is designed to support vulnerable communities in adapting to climate change while boosting sustainable agricultural production. He emphasized that the intervention aims not only to increase output but also to secure long-term economic stability for farming households.
The Social Livelihood Officer, Anna Okoh, underscored the importance of women’s participation in dry-season farming, urging community leaders to prioritize women as key beneficiaries of the distributed implements. In the same vein, the Drought and Desertification Officer, Engr. Emmanuel Olofo encouraged the community to leverage their proximity to the River Benue to expand farming activities and ensure year-round cultivation. The staff of the Environmental and Climate Change Amelioration Initiative (ECCAI), Benue ACReSAL’s FONGO in Zone C, were also present at the event.
Upon receiving the team, the Traditional Ruler of Oweto, Chief Ibrahim Ikwulono, expressed profound appreciation, noting that it was the first intervention of its kind in the community, despite the community’s low political representation. He assured that the water pumps, solar panels, inlet and outlet hoses, knapsack sprayers, irrigation guns, and related accessories would be optimally utilized for the benefit of all.