Introduction:
In Mafa Local Government Area of Borno State, livestock plays a pivotal role in sustaining livelihoods. Cows and goats are not just seen as sources of food; they also serve as vital avenues for income generation.
The Borno State Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project has made significant strides in addressing the needs of vulnerable households by providing them with livestock to enhance their living standards.
In 2024, the initiative distributed pairs of bulls and heifer goats to male and female participants, respectively, thereby fostering economic empowerment within the community.
About ACReSAL:
The Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project aims to tackle various multidimensional challenges in Northern Nigeria.
This initiative spans across 19 states, alongside FCT efforts, to combat issues such as flooding and foster agricultural resilience.
Testimonies from Beneficiaries of ACReSAL Impact:
Yunusa Kai from Madgani Community:
Yunusa, a farmer, received two cows (one male and one female) and expressed his gratitude for the support. He diligently cares for his animals, ensuring they receive adequate water and nutrition. His female cow has since given birth to another female calf, providing him and his family with substantial milk income. He earns approximately 5,000 naira weekly and 30,000 naira monthly from selling milk at the market, which has significantly alleviated family poverty. Yunusa credits ACReSAL for transforming his life and providing him financial security through livestock.
Mohammed Isa from Maiwa Community.
Mohammed also received two cows, and his female cow has since given birth to a male calf. Currently, he uses the milk primarily for his family but plans to sell surplus milk as production increases. He emphasizes the importance of the cows in securing his livelihood and praises ACReSAL for the transformative impact on his life, expressing that without the project, he would still be struggling.
Mallam Abba Ramat from Bulamai Community
Like the others, Mallam Anba received two cows. He has since welcomed an additional healthy male calf into his livestock. His family enjoys the milk from the female cow, which he intends to sell as production grows. He thank ACReSAL’s support as unique and invaluable, highlighting the positive changes it has brought to his family’s well-being.
Zara Mohammed from Kata Community
Zara received two goats, which have since bred into an additional three goats. From selling some of her goats for 50,000 naira, she was able to buy clothes and essential items for her children. Zara expresses her heartfelt thanks to ACReSAL, acknowledging the significant positive changes the project has fostered in her life.
Fanna Abubakar from Channa Maiwa Community
Fanna also received two goats that successfully bred, resulting in three new additions to her livestock. She appreciates the ACReSAL project for its positive impact on her life and expresses deep gratitude for the support.
Conclusion:
The implementation of the ACReSAL project has significantly improved the livelihoods of the Mafa community. The provision of livestock has not only enhanced food security but also created new economic opportunities for families, reducing poverty levels and fostering community resilience. Each beneficiary’s testimony reflects a renewed hope and a brighter future, demonstrating the profound impact of targeted interventions in vulnerable communities.
Through ACReSAL, lives are being transformed, and families are experiencing newfound stability and happiness.
24th /3/2026.
Timothy Butu Mwada
Communication officer
Borno ACReSAL
Press Release.