From Struggle to Success: How ACReSAL Empowered Sheda’s Women Cassava Processors

In the heart of Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, a revolution was brewing. The Sheda Women Cassava Processing Centre, once a hub of struggle and hardship, had become a beacon of hope and prosperity. Thanks to the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, the lives of over 100 women and their families have been transformed.

Before ACReSAL’s intervention, these women faced numerous challenges. They toiled in harsh conditions, exposed to scorching sun and rain, with limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities. Their productivity was restricted because they had to wait for three days for water to dry off from the ground, slowing their work down. Initially, their incomes were barely enough to make ends meet, with only 50 women engaged in the business.

Everything changed when ACReSAL stepped in. The project upgraded the centre’s facilities, providing shaded workspaces, secure fencing, hygienic toilets, and a reliable water supply through boreholes. Solar-powered lighting extended their working hours, and cemented floors improved sanitation. With the new facilities, the women can now work daily instead of at three-day intervals.

The impact was staggering. The women’s income skyrocketed, with some earning up to ₦300,000 per month – a far cry from the ₦50,000 they used to make. They no longer had to trek long distances for water, allowing them to focus on their businesses. Their children could attend school regularly, and the women could invest in their futures. The number of women engaged in the business grew from 50 to over 100, with more than 200 people working daily.

Justina Ibrahim, Chairperson of the Women Cassava Processors, said, “The ACReSAL intervention has been a game-changer for us. We now have a clean and safe environment with reliable water and sanitation facilities. Our production and sales have increased significantly, and we are earning higher incomes.

” Medina Ezebike, a member of the Women Processors Group, echoed this sentiment: “Since the intervention, more women have registered at the centre… We no longer spend money on water, and health challenges from sun exposure have reduced. This allows us to use our income for other needs.” Medina Nzebuike, a 48-year-old cassava processor, said “One of the challenges we’ve been having is water problem and shade. Also, lack of good drainage system. Previously, we were not able to wash cassava every day because the floor was not cemented. It makes it hard for water to dry off and at times it takes almost three days for us to come back and wash. But now, it is cemented, making the place neater and safer for us.”

She added that their business has improved significantly, with increased profits and more customers. Medina’s income has also increased dramatically, from ₦10,000-15,000 weekly to ₦150,000 daily.

Priscilla Abraham, a 47-year-old cassava processor, said, “When the intervention was not here, I struggled to earn ₦10,000 in two days but, as at now, I make ₦80,000 daily.” Grace Enoch, the Secretary of the processing centre, thanked ACReSAL for the intervention, saying, “Before the intervention, this business was all about water. We had to force our children to go and fetch water from the stream, neglecting their studies, but with the intervention of ACReSAL, things have changed and businesses have improved.”

The impact of ACReSAL’s intervention extends beyond the centre. Mrs. Titilayo Awe, owner of Mana T. Restaurant, shared her experience: “The upgrade of the centre has significantly boosted my business. With more people working there, I have seen an increase in patronage at my restaurant. I would say my income has doubled!”

 The Etsu of Sheda, Isa Abdullahi Yani, noted a significant reduction in cases resolved in the palace, attributing it to the intervention. “Most cases we resolve here involve domestic disputes, often stemming from economic hardship. However, thanks to ACReSAL’s intervention, many women are now engaged in productive activities, reducing tensions.”

The ACReSAL project plans to build on this success, facilitating access to financial support, introducing solar-powered processing machines, and conducting capacity-building programs. The Sheda Cassava Processing Centre is a testament to the power of targeted investments and community engagement. It’s a story of hope, resilience, and empowerment – one that will continue to inspire and uplift for generations to come.