How Mai Kaltungo Encourages his Community to Embrace Cassava Farming in his Domain as a Solution to Hunger
From Abdulwahab Muhammad, Bauchi
The First Class Emir in Gombe State Mai Kaltungo Engineer Saleh Mohammed Umar has suggested cassava farming as a solution to the country’s lingering hunger, poverty and food insecurity in the country.
Mai Katungo said this when he answered a Question from reporters at the end of community self help farming in his farm in Kaltungo.
He said he started the cassava farming as a solution to hunger in one of his community called Ture Balam, he got the seed from Taraba they planted the cassava after one year it was harvested they loaded over seven trucks with cassava.The monarch said he is also introducing cassava farming to the second community gradually it will go round all communities in the area.He said if Allah help us Gombe State will become the largest producers of cassava.He said he once discussed its advantage during security meeting and Gombe State Governor Inuwa Yahaya picked interest he directed each local government to cultivate five hectares of land for cassava farming, if we all embrace the farming we will become one of the largest producers.Mai Kaltungo said production of cassava is more cheaper than production of rice and maize because it didn't require any fertilizer and is less cost." once you planted it if it grow you will only wait to harvest it after one year"
While urging the Federal Government and relevant policymakers to embrace cassava farming,the monarch said that the production and consumption of garri (Nigerian staple made from processed cassava tubers) could tackle food insecurity. “Promoting cassava farming on a larger scale could provide job opportunities for millions of unemployed Nigerians, especially rural dwellers,”
Monarch called on governments at all levels to support farmers’ contribution to the nation’s food security and urged the government to intervene particularly in the areas of investment, technological advancements, and favorable government policies to boost their productivity. “Cassava farming has its own demands, but requires little capital investment, and has the potential for significant income generation. By encouraging farmers to engage in cassava cultivation, we can tackle both food insecurity and unemployment in one fell swoop. “Together, we can create a future where agriculture is not only seen as a source of sustenance but also as a thriving business venture. By supporting our farmers, we can ensure food self-sufficiency and economic empowerment for all Nigerians,” he said. He called on the government to diversify the agricultural sector to address the root causes of hunger and unemployment.The monarch said he introduced cassava farming to his communities as a solution to hunger, unemployment
and economic activities.
Mai Kaltungo said any community he planted cassava they will harvest it after one year and he donated the harvest to the community which serves as eye opener and capital.Many people interviewed in the farm expressed their gratitude to the monarch for his commitment to their wellbeing.They said it's a joyous moment and a blessing working in the farm of Mai Kaltungo.
End.