UN donates rice dehusking machines to Bauchi community
The United Nations on Tuesday donated rice dehusking machines to the women of the Badel Community in Dass Local Government Area, Bauchi State, in celebration of International Rural Women’s Day.
UN Women Programme Assistant, Temitope Wealth, explained that International Rural Women’s Day aims to empower rural women by helping them explore opportunities that improve their daily lives.
UN Women Country Representative for Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ms. Beatrice Eyong, emphasised the significant need to empower rural women in their contribution to food production.
She stated that as part of UN Women’s commitment, the rice dehusking machines were donated to assist women farmers in Bauchi.
“These machines are capable of processing 20 tonnes of rice daily, reducing the labour involved in manual rice harvesting and minimising post-harvest losses, which account for 40% of food wastage in Africa.
“UN Women will also provide training on how to operate the machines effectively.
“By equipping women with the necessary tools and skills, we are not only addressing food insecurity but also enabling them to improve their livelihoods,” said Ms Eyong.
She further announced plans to introduce a biogas project aimed at reducing dependence on firewood, promoting environmental sustainability, and improving women’s health by reducing exposure to smoke-related illnesses.
