In a groundbreaking move to enhance climate awareness and support smallholder farmers who rely on predictable weather patterns in Nigeria, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Fresh FM Osogbo.
This strategic partnership aims to deliver accurate and timely climate information to the public, foster climate education, and promote climate-smart agricultural practices. Through this collaboration, Fresh (104.9) FM Osogbo will leverage its wide reach across Osun, Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo, and parts of Kwara to disseminate vital climate updates.
HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Sulaimon Arigbabu, highlighted the importance of the partnership, stating, “This initiative is part of our commitment to providing farmers with essential resources like the Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA). We also envision this program evolving into an accountability platform where state actors are held responsible for advancing climate justice. We are excited about its potential impact.”
Abiodun Opasina, Lead Agriculture Desk at Fresh FM, praised HEDA’s efforts, describing the collaboration as timely. He emphasized the alignment between the project and Fresh FM’s farming-focused weekly program, Sa’agbe Do Ola (Turns Farming to Wealth), which has a strong following among listeners. “This partnership reflects our commitment to food security by ensuring local farmers are equipped with actionable information about climate change,” Opasina added.
The MOU, set to commence in January 2025, will span an initial 12 months. Under the agreement, HEDA will provide weekly climate updates, including news, tips, and other valuable content, while Fresh FM will broadcast these updates during its programs. Additionally, Fresh FM will subtly promote HEDA’s mission and activities through its radio programming and social media channels.
This partnership between HEDA Resource Centre and Fresh FM Osogbo is poised to be a significant step forward in promoting sustainable agriculture and empowering farmers with the knowledge needed to adapt to changing climate conditions.