Health
Firm trains women, PWDs in environmental protection
Adeyinka Adedipe
The Gbolekero Women Empowerment and Development Organisation, with support from the Global Greengrants Fund, has trained 60 women and persons with disabilities in Gelegele Community of Edo State in sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.
GWEDO Executive Director, Cynthia Bright said the capacity-building programme was designed to strengthen participants’ knowledge of environmentally-friendly farming practices, as well as equip them with practical skills to address environmental challenges affecting their livelihoods and community.
Bright, who spoke on Understanding Sustainable Agriculture and Bio-Fertilizers for Environmental Protection, encouraged participants to adopt farming practices that protect the soil and environment while improving food production and sustainable livelihoods.
She stressed the importance of organic inputs and bio-fertilizers, alongside practices such as crop rotation and soil protection, in maintaining healthy agricultural ecosystems.
Speaking on Climate Change, Environmental Protection and Farming, Mrs. Grace Emakpose sensitised participants on the effects of climate change on agriculture and community livelihoods.
She highlighted challenges including changing rainfall patterns, flooding and extreme weather conditions, urging farmers to adopt appropriate adaptation measures to strengthen their resilience.
Mrs. Morrison Arriela facilitated the session on Environmental Protection and Waste Management on Farms, during which she educated participants on the environmental consequences of poor waste disposal.
A major highlight of the training was a participatory group exercise, during which participants identified several solutions to environmental issues, including tree planting and protection, avoidance of bush burning, the use of organic inputs, crop rotation, soil protection and proper waste management.
Speaking on the significance of the programme, Bright said empowering communities with knowledge and practical tools was essential to achieving sustainable environmental protection and resilient livelihoods.
She emphasised the importance of ensuring the meaningful participation of women and persons with disabilities in environmental initiatives and community decision-making.
“At GWEDO, we encourage participants to implement the action plans developed during the training and explore opportunities for follow-up support and further practical capacity building.
“We also expressed appreciation to the Global Greengrants Fund for supporting the initiative. For us, the programme is an important step towards strengthening community-led environmental protection, sustainable agriculture and inclusive community development in Gelegele,” Bright added.
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