Ogoni Women Agribusiness Training (HYPREP)

In 2019, Aqua-Green Integrated Farming Support Initiative (AGI)

Project Description: Ogoni Women Agribusiness Training (HYPREP)

In 2019, Aqua-Green Integrated Farming Support Initiative (AGI), in collaboration with the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), launched a transformative program to support Ogoni women in Rivers State, Nigeria. This initiative was designed to empower women affected by the environmental devastation caused by hydrocarbon pollution, enabling them to rebuild their livelihoods through sustainable agricultural practices.

• The program began with an intensive needs assessment to understand the unique challenges faced by Ogoni women in polluted communities. Based on the findings, AGI developed a curriculum tailored to the region’s environmental conditions and economic opportunities. The training focused on aquaculture, poultry farming, snail farming, and vegetable cultivation, emphasizing eco-friendly practices that align with environmental recovery efforts.
• Participants received hands-on training in fish farming techniques, such as the use of collapsible tarpaulin ponds and water recirculatory systems (WRAS), which conserve resources and prevent further environmental degradation. For poultry and snail farming, AGI introduced innovative systems that require minimal space and resources, making them suitable for households in recovery zones.
• To ensure immediate impact, AGI provided startup packs containing essential resources like fingerlings, feed, chicks, and farming equipment. These tools allowed participants to begin their agribusiness ventures immediately after training. AGI also conducted follow-up visits to provide technical support, address challenges, and offer mentorship.
• Market access was another critical aspect of the program. AGI connected participants with local buyers and cooperatives, enabling them to sell their produce and generate income. The organization also offered guidance on packaging and branding to help participants add value to their products and stand out in competitive markets.
• The impact of the Ogoni Women Agribusiness Training was profound. Hundreds of women gained the skills and resources needed to establish sustainable livelihoods, reducing their reliance on external aid. The program also fostered a sense of empowerment and community, with participants forming support networks to share experiences and collaborate on farming projects.
• By combining environmental restoration with economic empowerment, this initiative showcased the potential of sustainable agriculture as a tool for rebuilding lives and communities in the Niger Delta. AGI’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity made the project a resounding success, leaving a lasting legacy in the region.