Nigeria: Kenaf production rises in Katsina, farmers give reasons

Irrigation farmers at Mashigi dam in Kankara LGA of Katsina State are exploiting the fortunes in ‘rama’ (kenaf or jute) production in which they are realising huge returns all year round. In the past, around the 60s, 70s and early 80s, kenaf was produced mainly for its fibre which was processed to make sacks for agricultural produce. Nowadays, women and children from different towns and villages in the state go to Mashigi dam in contingents to buy kenaf leaves which they cook and sell as salad for people’s consumption. Mallam Adamu Sani, chairman of Furya irrigation farmers, said most farmers in the area rely on kenaf, onion and corn production, unlike those in other areas who produce potato, wheat, cabbage and tomato. “We specialise in the production of kenaf, onion and corn. Only a few of us produce other crops. Our customers are always sure of supply from our end hence we have them from different parts of the state.” He added that when the demand was high, a bag of fresh kenaf ...