In Bauchi State’s 2025 budget, the allocation to agriculture is only 1.6% of the total N465.9 billion budget. This is far below the 10% commitment made under the Malabo Declaration of 2014. Such a low allocation is a significant mistake in the types of budget that should support women farmers.
Types of Budget That Support Women Farmers
Women farmers in Bauchi produce over 60% of the state’s food. They work hard every day, yet they face many challenges. These include limited access to credit, high costs of seeds and fertilizers, lack of storage facilities, and outdated farming tools. Without proper budget support, their productivity remains low.
Provision Of Adequate Funding
The 2025 budget allocated N7.64 billion to agriculture which is insufficient to address the agricultural needs. Adequate funding is necessary to improve farming practices and increase food production.
Extension services help farmers learn new techniques and improve their yields. In 2023, there was no allocation for extension services in Bauchi’s agricultural budget. This omission weakens the support system for farmers. A proper budget should include funds for training and deploying extension workers.
Climate Challenges
Farmers face natural disasters like flooding, which destroy crops. Climate-resilient agriculture practices can help mitigate these effects. The budget should allocate funds for irrigation systems and sustainable farming methods.
Infrastructure Support
Lack of storage and processing facilities leads to post-harvest losses. Investing in infrastructure helps preserve produce and adds value to agricultural products. The budget should include provisions for building and maintaining such facilities.
Women Empowerment
Only 18% of women farmers have access to processing facilities. Empowering women through targeted budget allocations can enhance their productivity. This includes access to credit, training, and equipment.
Types of Budget That Promote Economic Growth
Agriculture is a significant part of Bauchi’s economy. Investing in this sector creates jobs and boosts income. A well-planned budget can stimulate economic development.
The Malabo Declaration commits to allocating at least 10% of the budget to agriculture. Bauchi’s current allocation falls short of this commitment. Meeting this target demonstrates dedication to agricultural development.
Engaging farmers, especially women, in the budgeting process ensures that their needs are met. Inclusive budgeting leads to more effective and equitable outcomes.
Clear and transparent budgeting allows for accountability. Stakeholders can track allocations and expenditures, ensuring funds are used appropriately.
Fluctuations in budget allocations create uncertainty. Consistent funding helps in planning and implementing long-term agricultural projects.
Types of Budget That Address Input Costs
High costs of inputs like fertilizers and seeds hinder farming activities. Subsidies or financial support in the budget can alleviate this burden.
Investing in research and development leads to innovative farming techniques. Allocating funds for agricultural research can improve productivity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the current allocation to agriculture in Bauchi’s 2025 budget is inadequate. To support women farmers and ensure food security, the budget must be restructured to address these critical areas.
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