New Approach to Feed a Nation
Niger will soon face a serious challenge feeding its citizens if agricultural and economic needs are not effectively addressed. NCBA/CLUSA has analyzed the country’s agricultural needs and highlighted Molinga oleifera, or the horseradish tree (Moringa), as an ideal platform to address the larger economic and nutritional problems facing Niger.
NCBA/CLUSA’s Moringa Tree Food Security Program’s is strengthening the role of Moringa’s contribution to the economic growth and food security of Niger while improving the nutrition of Nigeriens as a secondary goal and byproduct of the success of the first goal. Specifically, the project aims to:
- Develop an effective agricultural extension system to assist existing and new Moringa producers;
- Support the producers, traders, and input suppliers in the value chain in developing their organizations, training their members and accessing viable credit sources and;
- Offer training to other human resources (peace corps volunteers, agricultural officers, NGO staff) to provide continued assistance to Moringa producers, traders and other actors once the program ends.
Impacts on Food Security and Economic Growth
- 95 new Moringa producers, 63 women and 32 men, were identified, trained, and given improved Moringa seeds and have started production.
- Over 2900 farmers benefitted from improved Moringa seeds distribution, training in production techniques, compost making, irrigation management and Moringa harvesting and conservation.
- The project helped form 30 Moringa cooperatives/producer groups and 17 trader associations. Each group has an average membership of 25 farmers/traders.
- 85 lead farmers received Moringa horticulture training from ICRISAT.
- Over 3000 participants, (2660 men and 350 women) benefited from agricultural input activities.
- 350 people trained in Business Skills in credit management, financial planning and farm budgeting.
