Farmers chart path to increase tomato output in Kano

Tomato farmers and other statkeholders in Kano have started deliberations on how to record increased output.

This is coming under the project, Transforming Irrigation Management in Nigeria (TRIMING), which is supported by the World Bank.

The project is managed by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources.

The National Project Coordinator and Head of the Project Management unit, Peter Yakubu Manjuk, said: “The project would support value chain development to enhance agricultural productivity, facilitate market linkages and increase farm household income.”

He spoke at the Tomato Stakeholders’ meeting in Kano yesterday.

According to him, with access to quality inputs, appropriate extension services and off-takers, tomato farmers in northern Nigeria could achieve yields of 45-60 tonnes per year.

The workshop drew participants from Abuja, Lagos, Ogun and Katsina states, as well all levels of the tomato value chain.

Those involved range from farmers to processors, input companies, extension service providers and irrigation schemes.

It was regarded as an opportunity for processor/off-takers and growers to better understand each other’s challenges and the risks they all face.

Farmers and bulk buyers of tomato who attended the meeting explored the challenges facing the tomato business across its value chain.