By Ahmed Ahmed
Stakeholders in Bauchi State have urged the government to adopt inclusive strategies that empower women with disabilities to engage meaningfully in Moringa-based agricultural livelihoods and value chains.
The call was made during the official launch of the “Empowering Women in Moringa Production and Processing (EWoMoPP)” project in Dass and Bauchi Local Government Areas at destination Hotel Bauchi.
The initiative is being implemented by the Youth Adolescent Health Initiative and Counselling (YAHIC), with funding support from the French Embassy Fund for Civil Society Organizations (FEF-CSO).
Participants at the event highlighted the challenges faced by women, especially those with disabilities, such as limited access to land, credit facilities, agricultural inputs, education, and markets.
Cultural norms, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of tailored training methods were also noted as barriers to full participation.
Hajiya Amina Ahmed, one of the stakeholders, advocated for the introduction of accessible training formats using sign language and braille, inclusive business models, and mentorship support networks.
She further emphasized the importance of public sensitization to combat stigma, and the formulation of inclusive policies to ensure equal opportunities in agricultural development.
YAHIC Executive Director, Ms. Eswayi Polycarp, explained that the EWoMoPP project aims to improve economic empowerment and climate resilience among rural women, with a deliberate focus on inclusion.
She said the year-long project, scheduled from July 2025 to June 2026, will directly benefit 90 rural women, including 15 with disabilities, and indirectly impact 450 individuals.
Polycarp noted the project’s alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1 (No Poverty), 2 (Zero Hunger), and 5 (Gender Equality). Moringa, described as the "miracle tree," was chosen for its nutritional benefits, low water needs, and strong market demand.
Mr. Tameshiya Titus, YAHIC Programme Officer, outlined key project components, including Moringa cultivation and processing training,
“Solar-powered greenhouses, Village Savings and Loan Associations, market linkage support, and awareness campaigns on Gender-Based Violence,” he said
He said the project is expected to start full implementation in September 2025, promoting sustainable livelihoods and social inclusion for rural women in Bauchi.
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