I was a teacher before I ventured into cocoa farming because of advice I received from my friends. They said there was money to be made from farming. I am part of a cooperative in my community, and we meet regularly to discuss farming and share knowledge. I first learned about PIND from a fellow farmer who attended a PIND-facilitated seminar in Delta State. He said participants were introduced to a new cocoa variety and taught how to plant it. He said, as a new farmer, it was better to adopt the new method.
I was skeptical because I was unsure if the new variety would thrive in our soil. Then I became interested when he told me the new seedlings would produce cocoa pods after two years. So, I visited his farm to see for myself. Then PIND held a workshop in my community, and we were taught different innovative farming techniques such as how to apply fertilizers, planning in three-by-three meter rows, proper pruning methods, etc. After planning the new varieties and using the techniques, my yield increased. PIND also linked us to big buyers who come to buy our produce right after harvest. Thanks to PIND, we are doing well and spreading the good news.
