A two-day “Training for Trainers” workshop program on wheat straw processing took place in the North West Region. Organized by the Institute of Agricultural Research for Development (IRAD) in partnership with CAWDEV, the program drew participants from key focus areas across the Santa, Tubah, and Bamenda 1 subdivisions. Notably, CUAPWD carried out advocacy with these organizations, which is why a woman with a disability participated in the training. This gesture also shows that they are interested in making their activities disability friendly.
Day One began with a welcome speech from the Chief of Center for IRAD Bambui, Mrs. Victorine, who encouraged attendees to take the program seriously. Ten participants were present, including four men and six women including a woman with a disability. All attendees were designated as “Ambassadors,” meaning they are expected to share the skills they learn with their wider communities.
Participants were introduced to the production of biodegradable straws. This initiative aims to reduce the massive environmental pollution caused by non-decaying plastic straws. By utilizing wheat straw, people can produce natural alternatives that decay and turn into manure without harming the environment.
Following the opening remarks, Mr. Tata and Dr. Irene led a practical session. Participants learned how to harvest straw from wheat stems and how to measure the different dimensions required for the production of straws.
Participants Measuring the Different Dimensions of the Straw
The last day of the training started with a recap of day ones practical lessons. Following the practical work on straw production, attendees were advised to start preparing their soils. They were to start by clearing and preparing their lands for planting in August so that harvesting can take place between December and January.
Many advantages were linked to the harvesting of wheat. The wheat waste can be used to produce mattress pads, construct animal cages, and feed livestock.
Biodegradable Straws in Process
Additionally, persons with disabilities can use these materials to craft handbags, making the entire process highly profitable for farmers and beneficial for the environment and the broader community. Including a person with a disability in this training is a step forward towards inclusion. This is to say that persons with disabilities should be included in everything in the society (Nothing without Us).
She will return to her community to step-down this training and empower even more persons with disabilities. In line with CUAPWD’s commitment to advancing agriculture as a sustainable livelihood, the organization will build on this impactful workβscaling up agricultural opportunities so that even more persons with disabilities can actively participate and succeed in the sector.
