THE Delta State Government has encouraged civil servants in the state to embrace subsistence farming around their homes to produce fresh and healthy food for families, and gain additional streams of income.
The Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Mininim Oseji, threw the challenge recently in Asaba, at a one-day workshop on “Development and Management of Homestead Gardening” organised for 50 civil servants.
Oseji, in her opening remarks, said that the initiative was a welcome development that would provide a second stream of income for civil servants.
“The workshop is aimed at equipping civil servants with the knowledge and skills needed to develop and manage homestead gardens.
“Homestead farming can be a second stream of income for civil servants, ” she said.
Oseji stressed that the training would ensure that participants were properly guided and equipped to implement their knowledge in homestead farming.
The Permanent Secretary, Office of the Head of Service, Mr Maxwell Ause, lauded the Head of Service for initiating the programme.
He noted that the enthusiasm demonstrated by her would motivate civil servants to participate in homestead farming.
Mr Paul Okpue, a resource person, demonstrated how to develop and manage homestead gardens using various agricultural inputs such as tomatoes, okra, peppers, onions, cucumbers, and carrots.
He explained the step-by-step process of developing a garden, from planning and preparation to harvesting.
Okpue advised the participants to seek advice from agricultural professionals and extension workers when in doubt.
He also advised them to source for farm inputs from reputable places in order to ensure quality and sustainability.
“You are also advised to test the soil quality to determine its suitability for farming, as well as plan the land layout carefully to optimise space and resources, ” he said.
