AGRA

Victoria Yerima, a 37-year-old mother of seven in Kaduna, Nigeria, is transforming her family’s agricultural legacy. Despite generations of farming, they struggled to make ends meet until Victoria joined the AGRA-led Gender Consortium Project.

This initiative provided access to modern farming techniques, high-quality seeds, and fertilizers, empowering Victoria to turn her small farm into a thriving business. “The AGRA project opened my eyes to new possibilities,” she shares, highlighting the impact of training in crop spacing, fertilizer application, and value addition. Sustainable farming practices, including safe herbicide handling, were also emphasized.

With high-yield, disease-resistant maize seeds from Value Seeds, Victoria’s productivity soared. “Before, I would harvest maybe two or three bags from a quarter hectare,” she recalls. “Now, I get 20 to 25 bags!” This dramatic increase secured her family’s financial stability, enabling her to invest in her children’s education.

Her children’s success, including her eldest daughter’s graduation and her son’s studies, reflects her dedication. “I will use the money to pay school fees,” Victoria says with pride. She envisions expanding her farm, creating opportunities for her children and community to embrace modern, profitable, and sustainable farming.

Victoria’s story exemplifies how empowering women in agriculture transforms lives. Through AGRA’s support, she is ensuring a legacy of growth and innovation for future generations.