Shield Africa Initiative Graduates New Cohort in Sustainable Farming
In an effort to bolster food security and address unemployment challenges, the Shield Africa Sustainable Development Initiative has successfully graduated the 2025/2026 beneficiaries of the Shield Africa Farmers Academy (SAFA) in Benue State. This graduation follows an intensive six-month training program focused on fish production and management practices, offered free of charge to participants.
Partnership with Local University Enhances Training Efforts
The training program was developed in partnership with the Joseph Salwan Taluka University of Agriculture in Makurdi, specifically targeting youth and women in the Oju Local Government Area. This collaboration aims to equip participants with essential knowledge and skills relevant to modern agricultural practices.
Promoting Sustainable Agriculture and Economic Development
During the graduation ceremony, Shield Africa Chairman Osenaga Orokpo emphasized the initiative’s commitment to sustainable agriculture, empowerment of vulnerable communities, and rural economic development. She noted that the Shield Africa Farmers Academy stands as one of the organization’s premier programs, designed to provide participants with both practical agricultural insights and entrepreneurial skills.
Encouraging a New Generation of Farmers
Representing Orokpo, Managing Director Prince Umobuariye urged graduates to view themselves as aspiring farmers and catalysts for change within their communities. He encouraged them to leverage the skills they acquired to foster sustainable agribusinesses, generate employment, and uplift the living standards in their local areas.
Addressing Systemic Barriers in Agriculture
Orokpo highlighted the critical role of today’s generation in ensuring food security through innovative production methods and leadership in agriculture. She pointed out that by integrating capacity-building efforts with access to agricultural resources and market opportunities, Shield Africa is actively dismantling barriers that have historically limited youth engagement in the agricultural sector.
Hands-On Training and Essential Empowerment Packages
Over the six-month training period, participants received comprehensive instruction in various areas, including fish production techniques, farm management, and water quality control, all vital for successful agribusiness development. To facilitate the immediate launch of their enterprises, Shield Africa provided an empowerment package that included start-up funds and fry for establishing fish farms.
Gratitude from Graduates and Community Impact
Dr. Augustine Adike, the Director of the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme at the Joseph Salwan Taluka University of Agriculture, presented the empowerment packages to the beneficiaries. Graduates such as Mr. Edigbo Pele and Mr. Odigiri Victor expressed heartfelt thanks to Mrs. Orokpo and the organization’s Board of Directors, describing the program as innovative and transformative. They pledged to effectively utilize their training to develop successful aquaculture ventures and contribute to enhancing domestic food production and economic growth.
Attendees at the graduation ceremony affirmed that initiatives like the Shield Africa Farmers Academy play a vital role in combating unemployment, fostering self-reliance, and boosting agricultural productivity, particularly in rural communities.
