ACReSAL Team Visits HRH Hama Bata, Engages Demsa Communities on Planned 6,000-Hectare Irrigation Project

In a major push to transform the agricultural landscape in Demsa, today the joint World Bank and Federal Government of Nigeria mission team, under the ACReSAL project, engaged with the Demsa community in Adamawa State to discuss the planned 6,000 hectares Dwam Irrigation Project.

This initiative promises to transform the agricultural terrain, boost food production, and enhance the economic well-being of the community.

CHIEF THIMAWUS AFRAIMU FWA JP expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its potential to unlock the full potential of their land. “Agriculture is the backbone of our economy, providing livelihoods for many of our families.

However, our farmers face challenges such as limited access to water, poor soil quality, and unpredictable weather patterns. This irrigation project will address these challenges, empowering our farmers to increase productivity, improve crop yields, and enhance economic stability.”

The project is not just about agriculture; it’s about community development, creating jobs, stimulating local economic growth, and improving the overall quality of life for the people. The success of this project depends on the active participation and support of the community, as well as developing a sustainable plan for management and maintenance, he said.

Dr. Joy Iganya Agene, Task Team Leader for the ACReSAL Project, informed the community that the mission team has been working tirelessly to develop a bankable design for the irrigation scheme.

She noted that 6,000 hectares of arable land have been identified for irrigation, with approximately 20,000 farmers that will benefit from the project. The mapping exercise captured over 6,200 households and 32,000 residents in the 28 communities.

The Community-led Irrigation Project is about empowering farmers, who constitute over 80% of the people in Demsa. This project is a solution for all farmers in the entire area.

The Demsa community received insights into the catchment management plan, which will provide valuable guidance on effective land and water management to boost yields. Through this initiative, ACReSAL aims to not only equip the community with irrigation skills but also promote sustainable environmental practices.

To foster a harmonious environment, the mission team facilitated in-depth discussions with community members on peaceful coexistence and conflict transformation within their catchments. This engagement aimed to promote sustainable development and social cohesion.

Prior to the community engagement, the mission team paid a courtesy visit to His Royal Highness, Hama Bata, the revered Paramount Ruler of the Bata Kingdom, to solicit his blessings and endorsement for the project.

ACReSAL….greening the environment, saving lives.