Nigerian farmers benefit from Olam Livelihood Charter

The results of the Olam Livelihood Charter (OLC) in Nigeria have been announced by global agri-business Olam International.

The OLC is a flagship programme to support smallholder communities worldwide, reaching 344,466 farmers in 17 countries in 2015.

The programme aims to bring prosperity to farming and rural communities, build long-term relationships based on fairness and trust, and transfer skills and knowledge through partnerships. The OLC now embraces 12,275 farmers in Nigeria across rice, cocoa and sesame crops.

The OLC is based on the principle that supporting smallholders with agri-training and seeds or fertiliser is not enough. Initiatives must be holistic in approach and tackle wider social, economic and environmental challenges to achieve mutually beneficial impacts in the long-term.

“Olam is committed to helping Nigerian agriculture to thrive and that means supporting as many farmers as we can with training and social investment,” explains Ade Adefeko; Vice President and Head Corporate & Government Relations, Olam Nigeria

“Everyone stands to benefit from getting it right, as then the economy grows and food security in Nigeria is enhanced. Meanwhile we at Olam can grow our business and provide our customers with consistent volumes of traceable, sustainable products.”

Olam Livelihood Charter in Nigeria: 2015 highlights
• 12,275 rice, cocoa and sesame farmers cultivating 21,727 ha
• 10,140 farmers trained in Good Agricultural Practices, 13% of whom were women
• US$195,313 premiums paid to farmers for UTZ and Rainforest Alliance certification
• Construction of 12 boreholes
• HIV/AIDS and diabetes awareness and sensitization.