Taraba greenhouse makes first harvest
The greenhouse, recently revived by Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State, has recorded an impressive first harvest. This farm, situated near the Taraba State University Jalingo, lay fallow under the previous administration until its recent revitalization. On Thursday, the management of Taraba State Greenhouse celebrated a bumper harvest of green pepper and cucumber, marking a […]
The greenhouse, recently revived by Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State, has recorded an impressive first harvest. This farm, situated near the Taraba State University Jalingo, lay fallow under the previous administration until its recent revitalization.
On Thursday, the management of Taraba State Greenhouse celebrated a bumper harvest of green pepper and cucumber, marking a significant milestone since operations resumed. This success positions the greenhouse to play a dominant role in an innovation and technology-driven agricultural revolution.
A new era for greenhouse farming
Mr. Gil, the project manager, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “a new day has indeed arrived for greenhouse farming in Taraba.” He emphasized that this bumper harvest confirms the viability and global competitiveness of their farming technology. Gil, a leading agricultural expert, further highlighted that the “soil-less” farming concept is set to establish Taraba State as a frontrunner in agricultural advancement within Nigeria.
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He commended the state government’s strategic approach in preventing the project from succumbing to past inefficiencies. The greenhouse, often referred to as “Cucumber Farm”, was on the verge of collapse before Governor Agbu Kefas intervened. Dr. Kefas engaged experts to revitalize the complex, ensuring it reclaimed its rightful place in the ongoing agricultural revolution and addressing factors that had previously limited its operations.
Impact on markets and local community
Markets are already reacting positively to the abundant harvest. The ultimate goal is for the Taraba greenhouse to become the primary source for all essential, nutrient-rich vegetables, providing both high-quality produce for sale and sustenance. This initiative is also expected to benefit Taraba State immensely as marketers target the national market.
Mr. Ohad Shiltman, one of the partners, assured that the initiative is not overlooking the local market. He stated that the state will benefit from all products, and residents will also have the opportunity to participate in the bounty. He added that the greenhouse facilities will continue to provide expertise and training for local agro-entrepreneurs.
Shiltman noted that the farm’s proximity to higher learning institutions, such as the Taraba State University and the College of Agriculture, is a deliberate advantage. He stressed that the farm will generate jobs and stimulate economic growth for Taraba State as the host of the complex.
Farmers begin harvesting sesame, melon in Taraba
Farmers in Taraba State have commenced harvesting yams, sesame, melon, and groundnuts.
Harvests have begun in areas including Zing, Yorro, Ardo Kola, Bali, Gashaka, Gassol, and Kurmi local government areas.
Daily Trust investigations reveal that farmers in these regions have experienced bumper harvests of yams, sesame, melon and groundnuts. This success is attributed to early planting and uninterrupted rainfall in the harvesting areas.
Ramatu Ali, a female farmer from Nahuta village in Bali Local Government Area, informed Daily Trust that she planted melon and sesame seeds at the onset of the rains. She was fortunate that the rainfall continued, allowing her crops to flourish. Ramatu plans to use part of the proceeds from her sales to plant maize and white beans.
Ali Maihula, another farmer from Bali, reported that farmers in the region have reaped good yields of melon, groundnuts and sesame seeds. He expressed his satisfaction with the produce from his melon and sesame plantations. Ali noted that while there was a brief break in rainfall in some areas, the overall rainfall patterns this year have been favourable, and more rain is currently being observed.
Dauda John, a yam farmer in Yorro Local Government Area, told Daily Trust that farmers in Yorro and Zing local government areas began harvesting yams in late June, observing a good crop. He contrasted this with the previous year’s poor harvest due to unfavourable weather and insufficient rainfall, emphasizing that this year’s weather has been beneficial with ample rainfall for crop maturation.
Meanwhile, local markets are overflowing with food items such as raw cassava, yams, groundnuts, Irish potatoes and sweet potatoes, which has further contributed to a decline in grain prices across the state.