STAKEHOLDERS SUMMIT ON EMPOWERING SMALLHOLDER FARMERS FOR SUSTAINABLE GROWTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION THROUGH AGROFORESTRY
Held on October 19, 2025, at Uche’s Garden Hotel, off Igbere Junction, Bende Local Government Area, Abia State.
Organized by Defender of the Environment and Social Justice Initiative (DESJI) in collaboration with Open Door Rural Development Initiative (ORDI), Abia State
Introduction
The Stakeholders Summit on Empowering Smallholder Farmers for Sustainable Growth and Environmental Protection through Agroforestry was successfully convened on October 19, 2025. The summit brought together stakeholders from forty communities of Umunna in Bende Local Government Area, Abia State, with the theme Empowering Smallholder Farmers for Sustainable Growth and Environmental Protection through Agroforestry.
Objectives:
The summit aimed to:
- Promote sustainable agriculture practices among smallholder farmers
- Enhance environmental protection through agroforestry
- Empower local communities to take ownership of their environmental conservation efforts
- Foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among stakeholders
Keynote Speaker and Chairman
Dr. Clifford Agbaeze, Hon Commissioner, Ministry of Agriculture, Abia State, delivered a keynote address, emphasizing the importance of sustainable agriculture practices and environmental conservation, and reiterating the state’s commitment to supporting smallholder farmers and promoting agroforestry practices
Key Activities
- Interdenominational Service: The summit commenced with an interdenominational service, bringing together participants from diverse religious backgrounds to seek divine guidance and blessings for the initiative.
2. Lectures: Experts delivered lectures on the benefits of agroforestry, sustainable agriculture practices, and environmental conservation, providing participants with practical knowledge and skills to enhance their farming practices.
