PFN Embarks on Community Cluster Farming Initiative
The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has expressed its readiness to collaborate with rural communities to engage in community cluster farming across the six South-South states of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers. This initiative aims to achieve food security in the region and promote community development.
Director, South-South Directorate of Agriculture and Empowerment of PFN, Apostle Dr Timiebi G Kiyaramo who dropped the hint when he visited the Acting Paramount Ruler of Ayakoro community in Ogbia local government area of Bayelsa State maintained that the initiative seeks to empower rural communities, improve agricultural productivity, and enhance food security.
According to the clergy, Community cluster farming involves grouping farmers together to achieve common goals, such as improving crop yields, accessing markets, and sharing knowledge and resources, pointing out that PFN’s initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s efforts to boost agricultural production and achieve food security in Nigeria.
He said the church which gives priority to the well-being if its members is concerned about the challenges being faced by rural communities, saying the organization is ready to partner with stakeholders, including government agencies and NGOs to support the initiative.
The PFN believes that its agricultural empowerment initiative which demonstrates the potential of community cluster farming to improve food security, increase income, and promote sustainable agriculture in the Niger Delta region. This will result in job creation for the rural communities.
The Regional director noted that cluster farming could lead to higher yields and better market access, resulting in increased income for farmers and improved livelihoods, informing that Community cluster farming could create employment opportunities for local youth, reduce unemployment and promote economic growth.
“Collaborative farming efforts can lead to improved infrastructure, such as roads, storage facilities, and irrigation systems. Community cluster farming fosters social cohesion, promoting unity and cooperation among community members.
“Cluster farming can lead to increased food production, improving food availability and accessibility in rural communities. Community cluster farming can promote diversified crops, reducing reliance on a single crop and improving food security. Access to fresh, locally grown produce can improve nutrition and health outcomes in rural communities. Collaborative farming efforts can lead to improved storage and processing facilities, reducing post-harvest losses.
“Community cluster farming can promote sustainable agricultural practices, reducing environmental degradation and promoting eco-friendly farming methods. Training and capacity-building programs can enhance farmers’ skills, improving agricultural productivity and competitiveness.
“Community cluster farming can improve market access, enabling farmers to sell their produce at competitive prices. Community cluster farming can empower women, providing them with opportunities for economic participation and decision-making. In the South-South region, community cluster farming can be particularly effective in addressing challenges such as land degradation, poor infrastructure, limited access to markets and limate change impacts
“By leveraging community cluster farming, rural communities in the Niger Delta can improve food security, promote economic growth, and enhance overall well-being,” Apostle Kiyaramo reiterated.
Chief ThankGod Expenses, spokesman of the Chiefs Council and acting paramount ruler of Ayakoro community, Chief Micah Itesi, expressed gratitude to Apostle Kiyaramo for visiting the community, highlighting the community’s eagerness to collaborate with the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) to boost agricultural productivity.
Chief Itesi’s statement underscores the community’s recognition of the importance of agriculture in improving livelihoods and food security. By partnering with PFN, the community aims to leverage expertise and resources to enhance farming practices, increase yields, and promote sustainable agriculture.
This initiative aligns with the federal government’s efforts to involve farmers in policy decisions and boost agricultural productivity. The government has introduced programs like AGROW, which focuses on strategic value chains, private sector engagement, and transparent land administration.
