A non-governmental organisation called the Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA) has urged social media influencers in Benue and Nasarawa States to raise awareness about the availability of better, disease-free cassava seedlings.

SAA made the call at the Building an Economically Sustainable Integrated Cassava Seed System Phase 2 (BASICS II) project workshop, held in Makurdi for social media players and influencers.

According to the BASICS II project’s communication focal point, Ms. Aveseh Asough, social media platforms have revolutionised how agricultural information is shared because they make connecting globally simple.

Asough also stated that farmers may use mobile phones to share their farming experiences, learn new practices, and receive weather and market price data.

“Social media influencers break things down in simple, relatable ways through videos, photos, and stories, which helps build trust by showing real-life results.

“Influencers can play a crucial role in spreading information about the benefits of certified cassava seeds, the dangers of disease-prone planting materials, and the importance of a reliable seed supply chain.

“The BASICS II model has proven effective in improving cassava productivity by establishing a structured seed system that delivers disease-free, high-quality cassava planting materials to farmers,” she added.

The focal person emphasised that despite the success, the widespread use of recycled and unimproved varieties continues to limit cassava yields.

She explained that the workshop is dedicated to social media influencers. It will equip selected voices in Benue and Nasarawa with the needed knowledge to amplify the BASICS II project and increase its reach.

“The objective of this workshop is to make sure influencers are equipped with practical communication tools and content ideas for creating engaging posts that would promote the adoption of disease-free certified seeds.

“It is also meant to build the capacity of social media influencers in Benue and Nasarawa on the BASICS II Cassava Seed System, which includes its benefits, structure, and impact on cassava productivity.

“The aim is to create a network of influencers actively promoting the BASICS II Cassava Seed model across social media platforms and reaching out to farmers and agricultural communities,” she said.

Speaking at the session about the Market-Oriented Agriculture (MOA) program, Mr. Jonathan Yassah, an officer,  explained that the SAA program was established to increase agricultural production and food security in Africa.

He claimed a strong demand for better seeds in the two states and that 14 extension agents received training on using improved cassava disease-free seeds in March 2024.

Source: NAN

Image Credit: Mbolo’s Facebook