Women farmers in Bauchi State are enjoying record soybean yields thanks to the CASCADE programme (Catalyzing Strengthened Policy Action for Healthy Diets and Resilience), implemented in collaboration with Seed Co Nigeria. The initiative equips women with modern farming techniques, improved nutrition knowledge and sustainable agricultural practices, transforming both productivity and livelihoods.
Speaking at the Mega Brown Soybean Field Day in Bauchi, John Agboola, Head of Marketing at Seed Co Nigeria, highlighted the programme’s impact. “This initiative began three to four months ago, targeting women farmers across Bauchi, Jigawa, Kebbi, and other northern states. Through this project, women received improved soybean seeds and essential inputs to boost productivity. Beyond inputs, they were trained in Good Agronomic Practices, from planting to harvest,” said Agboola.
Farmers applied the techniques in their fields, supported by ongoing agronomic guidance. Practices such as proper fertiliser application, weeding and field management have dramatically increased yields. Agboola noted that many women are now harvesting between 10 and 15 bags of soybeans per acre, a significant improvement over previous seasons. The initiative also teaches women to process soybeans into soy milk, flour, and other nutritious products, improving dietary protein intake for children and lactating mothers. “This field day celebrates their hard work and achievements. The improved soybean variety planted this season shows remarkable pod yields compared to local varieties. We expect these women to continue applying modern practices and to share knowledge within their communities, empowering even more women,” added Agboola.
The Head of Women in Agriculture at the Bauchi State Agricultural Development Programme (BSADP),Helen S. Sarki Chiroma, praised CASCADE for its impact across ten local government areas.“Women farmers have gained access to quality inputs, improved knowledge and better farming practices, resulting in higher yields and stronger livelihoods. Soybean is a high-value crop with immense market potential, surpassing rice and maize in profitability. Beyond income, we encourage women to include soybeans in their daily meals to improve household nutrition,” said Chiroma.
Beneficiaries including Sadiya Haruna Mohammed of Tsohon Kamfani and Hauwau Mohammed, expressed satisfaction with the programme, highlighting the benefits of training and access to fertiliser. The CASCADE project, supported by CARE, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands and Seed Co Nigeria, continues to serve as a model for empowering women, improving household nutrition and promoting sustainable agriculture across Northern Nigeria.
