ADAMAWA ACRESAL TO COMMENCE PAYMENT FOR ECOSYSTEM SERVICES FOR FARMERS PRACTICING REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE

Written by Adacresal

December 19, 2024

Adamawa ACReSAL to Commence Payment for Ecosystem Services for Farmers Practicing Regenerative Agriculture

Girei, Adamawa State — December 2024

Adamawa ACReSAL in a first of its kind move is commencing Payment for Ecosystem Services for farmers practicing Regenerative Agriculture at its adoption site in Girei. This program, the first of its kind in Nigeria, is transforming how smallholder farmers view and manage their farmlands by rewarding them for adopting eco-friendly practices.

At a sensitization event, Dr. Ibrahim Chinda, the State Project Coordinator for Adamawa ACReSAL, met with the 256 farmer beneficiaries cultivating on the project’s 256-hectare farmland. The PES initiative provides a weekly payment of ₦8,000 to each farmer, tied to their commitment to nurturing 33 tree seedlings planted on their plots over a one-year effective immediately.

These trees play a vital role in carbon sequestration, soil stabilization, and improving the overall agricultural landscape.

The farmers expressed deep gratitude for ACReSAL’s efforts, acknowledging the project’s pivotal role in improving their livelihoods while promoting sustainable agriculture. They assured the ACReSAL team of their dedication to nurturing the trees to maturity, fully aware that their commitment not only ensures ecosystem health but also secures their weekly payments.

To further support the farmers, boreholes are being constructed across the farm zones to provide reliable access to water for dry-season vegetable farming. Additionally, a nursery has been set up to replace any seedlings that fail to thrive, alongside the provision of essential watering equipment. These interventions are designed to guarantee the sustainability of the project and enhance the farmers’ productivity.

The PES initiative is just one example of how regenerative agriculture is bridging the gap between environmental conservation and economic resilience. By integrating crops, trees, and livestock, this model addresses challenges like soil degradation, deforestation, and food insecurity while creating new opportunities for farmers.

As the farmers prepare for a prosperous dry season, their enthusiasm underscores the potential of regenerative agriculture to reshape agricultural practices in Adamawa State and beyond. The success of this initiative reflects the power of collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to sustainability.

With continued support from Adamawa ACReSAL, these farmers are not just planting seeds in the soil—they’re planting hope for a greener, more resilient future.