Women in Mechanised Agriculture (WIMA) has urged the Nigerian government to promote policies allowing women access to mechanised farming equipment, increasing agricultural output and empowering women across the country.

Dr Aisha Waziri, Chairperson of WIMA’s Board, called during a news conference in Abuja on Wednesday, emphasising the significance of mechanisation in transforming agriculture, increasing efficiency, and creating new opportunities for women in the industry.

According to Waziri, the government’s assistance is critical in allowing women to use sophisticated farming gear, reducing the stress of manual labour and enhancing food production throughout Nigeria.

“We urge key ministries such as Women’s Affairs, Trade and Investment, Agriculture, and Science and Technology to incorporate mechanisation support for women in their policies.

“This is not just a proposal; it is a proven solution that has the potential to transform lives and boost agricultural output in the country.”

Waziri explained how the initiative works: women would have access to agricultural machinery on a lease basis, with zero upfront costs, enabling them to improve farm productivity without the financial barrier of purchasing expensive equipment. 

The initiative operates entirely on a women-led model, with urban women in cities like Abuja linking with rural farmers to offer mechanisation services. 

“This model is a win-win situation for both the women involved and the government. It is a sustainable approach to empowering women and enhancing agricultural production, contributing to Nigeria’s shift away from oil dependency,” Waziri added.

In addition to the mechanisation push, WIMA’s President, Mrs. Aisha Bako, spoke about the organisation’s journey since its inception. 

“WIMA developed its business model in 2019, enabling women to act as aggregators of mechanisation services. Starting with only six women, WIMA’s growth has been remarkable.”

With Mastercard’s support, the organisation expanded to 250 members by 2020, and by 2022-2023, its membership had reached approximately 500. 

“This year, WIMA aims to expand to 2,000 women, providing them access to farming equipment through a vendor financing model, allowing them to offer services and repay the cost over time.

“We are not a charity but a business membership organisation. Our members acquire equipment through vendor financing, providing a sustainable model for women in agriculture,” Bako said.

Source: AgroNigeria