Women in Mechanised Agriculture (WIMA) has called for the incorporation of women in mechanised farming into the policies of the federal government as part of efforts to boost food production in the country.
WIMA Board of Trustees member, Ms. Heather-Ronke Akanni stated this during a press conference on Wednesday in Abuja.
She said there was a need for policies that go beyond agricultural production and marketing to fully support mechanisation for women.
She stated: “Mechanisation is key to boosting productivity and enhancing processing. If we receive policy support and attract investment, the impact will be significant. More women and young people will join, and the numbers will grow exponentially.
“With the right policy support, this initiative can transform mechanised farming in Nigeria, creating employment and economic opportunities for women across the country.”
Speaking in the same vein, WIMA Board Chairperson, Dr. Aisha Waziri, said mechanisation was crucial to improving agricultural productivity and empowering women across Nigeria.
She added that there was a need for the government to support women’s access to mechanised farming equipment and integrate women-focused agricultural empowerment initiatives into national policies.
Her words: “We are urging key ministries, including Women Affairs, Trade and Investment, Agriculture, and Science and Technology, to incorporate mechanisation support for women into their policies,”
“This initiative has been tried, tested, and proven to work. It is not just a proposal—it is a real solution that can change lives.”
The chairperson explained that the initiative allows women to access agricultural machinery on a lease basis at zero upfront cost.
On her part, WIMA President, Mrs. Aisha Bako explained that the organisation developed its business model in 2019, where women acted as aggregators of mechanisation services.
She clarified that WIMA operates as a business membership organisation rather than a charity.
Bako stated: “We began with just six women. By 2020, with Mastercard’s support, we had grown to 250 members. By 2022–2023, our numbers reached approximately 500. This year, we are expanding to 2,000 women, providing them with access to tractors,
“Our members acquire equipment under a vendor financing model, where they offer services and repay the cost over time.”