Farmers with disabilities in Osun ask for inclusion in agricultural programmes

Persons With Disabilities Farmers Association (PWDFA) in Osun have called on the state government to include them in its agricultural programmes.

“We want inclusiveness, assistance and opportunities given to regular farmers,” NAN quoted Olanrewaju Oladosu, the association’s coordinator, as saying.

“We need the state to carve out farm settlements for our members in each local government area.

“Persons with disabilities do not want to beg for alms. So, we need the state government to empower us.

“We have more than 1,000 members in different farming sectors since PWDFA was formed in May, 2022.

“We have members in fish farming, crop cultivation, animal husbandry and poultry farming, who are contributing their quota to food production in the state and in the ccountry.”

He decried the fact that PWDs are treated as social outcasts.

He said the association was formed and registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to provide for the needs of their members.

“One of the aims of establishing PWDFA is to get government’s recognition and assistance,” Olanrewaju said.

“We appeal to government to give us the opportunity to operate and excel.

“Our members are doing their best to contribute to food production. But, we need government’s assistance.”

He said the federal ministry of agriculture and FADAMA had helped PWDFA two times with farm implements, day-old chicks and poultry feeds, grinding machines and deep freezers.