Food Sufficiency Initiative: Paramount Ruler of ONNA Launches Oil Palm Seedling Planting Program
… declared open Train-the-Trainers workshop for facilitators of the scheme
Itiat Itiat
04052024
In the tranquil setting of the Ibom Integrated Farm Limited’s Seminar Hall in Awa Ndon, ONNA, His Royal Majesty, Edidem Raymond Timothy Inyang (JP), Akwa Enin Afaha IV, inaugurated the pilot phase of the Oil Palm Mega Seed Project.
During his opening address, Edidem Inyang highlighted the transformative potential of the oil palm industry in achieving food sufficiency. He noted that this initiative is a key component of the Five-Year Development Plan for the NNPC/MPN JV EMOIMME Host Community Development Trust, as identified in the Needs Assessment Survey.
Key Aspects of the Pilot Phase:
1. Seedling Distribution: Seedlings will be provided at no cost, aligning with the objectives of the HCDT.
2. Economic Empowerment: The program aims to foster a consistent cash flow for participating individuals.
3. Community Oversight: Local communities will oversee the planting process to prevent the resale of seedlings.
4. Individual Ownership: Participants will have personal ownership of the oil palm plants.
The Paramount Ruler emphasized that distribution of seedlings will be based on individual interest and land availability, rather than by village. This phase focuses on the Awa Afaha Clan, with an open invitation for other ONNA clans to replicate the model to enhance their financial well-being.
“As the Clan Head of Awa Afaha and Paramount Ruler of ONNA, I am committed to leading by example to ensure we capitalize on the planting season,” stated Edidem Inyang. He proudly referenced the visits from the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, and representatives from HCDT, who commended the farm’s contribution to state-wide food sufficiency.
The workshop featured esteemed experts in plantation agriculture who outlined the benefits of the program and the sequential activities designed to promote financial stability for participants.
Program Stages:
– Site preparation
– Determining optimal planting distances and population
– Spacing strategies
– Best practices for planting
– Fertilization techniques
– Ongoing maintenance
It was disclosed that the oil palms are expected to begin yielding within three years, promising substantial oil and kernel production.
To disseminate the knowledge effectively, two individuals from each of the ten villages in the Awa Afaha Clan were chosen as facilitators. This approach ensures that the core units of the community—the families—receive the necessary guidance.
The workshop concluded with a comprehensive tour of the nursery, showcasing over twenty thousand oil palm seedlings, followed by a hands-on planting demonstration.
