Featured

Nigerian Doctor Turns Green House Farmer in Rwanda

Published

8 months ago

February 3, 2024

Eric

By Dolapo Aina

Greenhouse farming is the unique farm practice of growing crops within sheltered structures covered by a transparent, or partially transparent, material. The main purpose of greenhouses is to provide favourable growing conditions and to protect crops from unfavourable weather and various pests.

In the book titled: “Biodiversity and Climate Change Adaptation in Tropical Islands” which was published in 2008; greenhouses are described as frames of inflated structure covered with a transparent material in which crops are grown under controlled environment conditions. Greenhouse cultivation as well as other modes of controlled environment cultivation has been evolved basically to create favourable micro-climates, which favours crop production all through the year or part of the year as required. In general, greenhouses and other technologies for controlled environment plant production are associated with the off-season production of vegetables, ornamentals and food crops of high value in cold climate areas where outdoor production is not possible.

Now, according to Dutch greenhouse experts, greenhouse technology from the Netherlands has been setting the international standard for horticulture for over a century. According to Dutch Green House’s website; “The success of greenhouse models makes cultivation of all sorts of fruits, vegetables and flowers possible on a commercial scale. In the past, growers relied on their region’s climate conditions, but with the advancements in greenhouse technology, today’s modern growers can exert complete control over the greenhouse’s internal climate. In the 21st century, technology makes it possible to grow tropical crops, such as tomatoes and peppers, in the cold regions. The other way around, juicy cucumbers and fresh lettuce crops can be cultivated in greenhouses in the deserts and arid lands of other regions.

Doing some research on greenhouses, it is reported that they can range in size from small sheds to industrial-sized buildings and enormous glasshouses. The smallest example is a miniaturised greenhouse known as a cold frame, typically used at home, whereas large commercial greenhouses are high tech production facilities for vegetables. Greenhouse farming has been a part of our growing history globally. But it is acclaimed that rapid and evolving technology and climate change are transforming how and why farmers now grow in greenhouses. Since outside conditions don’t necessarily impact plants or workers, the greenhouse’s protected environment provides a safe and stable condition.

In the country of Rwanda, some African greenhouse farmers can be found. A Nigerian British doctor turned farmer, is one of such greenhouse farmers. Dr Remi Banjoko started visiting Rwanda in 2004 and founded Ndego Farms Ventures several years later. The 22-hectare farm specialising in greenhouse farming was incorporated in December 2022 and operations commenced in August 2023.

Interacting with the doctor turned farmer, I queried him asking why go into the interior parts of Rwanda; Dr Banjoko stated that him and his investors were looking for agricultural land next to a lake at affordable prices and Ndego sector in Kayonza District in Eastern Province was where they found the perfect land for their greenhouse farming venture.

On the question for his decision to do greenhouse farming in Rwanda, the doctor turned farmer simply stated that he commenced farming in Rwanda because of the ease in doing business, security and government support and incentives. And the specialisation on Greenhouse farming because of increased productivity.

As with any field there are challenges and for the doctor turned farmer; “Normal challenges in agriculture, as in any other country, getting a good team together, capital costs and patience.”

On the future of greenhouse farming in Rwanda, the farmer was and is still of the view that due to the size of the country and upcoming government policies, greenhouse farming is going to play a large role in farming in Rwanda.

From my initial research and investigation on the ground in Rwanda, greenhouse farming has a plethora of advantages such as year-round growing, minimised production risks, maximisation of profits, disease and pest prevention increased stability and security, increased production, bountiful harvests. Just to name a few.
The greenhouse farming is the future of agriculture. This is usually the statement cum assertion of African farmers. This fact is undeniable as the statistics and evidence are empirical.

Featured

A Peep into the World of Nollywood Acctress, Judith Iwu

Published

1 day ago

October 10, 2024

Eric

Name: Judith Iwu

Age: 42 years old

Place of Birth: Sokoto State, Nigeria

Partner: Ogechi Nwanekwu

Children: Bayo Iwu, Kizito Iwu, Angelica Iwu

Height: 6 feet tall

Award: International Media Personality Award

Career:

Judith Iwu is a renowned Nigerian actress with a distinguished career in Nollywood. Her exceptional acting talent has made her a standout performer in the industry, known for taking on complex roles that captivate audiences.

Notable Movies:

Judith Iwu has starred in several notable movies, including:

“House of Trouble”

“Priceless Woman”

“Nicest Gifts to Men”

“Evil Household”

“Virgins on Fire”

“Agony of Love”

“The Tigress”

These films have showcased her versatility, earning her respect from both peers and fans in the entertainment world.

Award:

Judith Iwu received the prestigious International Media Personality Award, highlighting her contributions not only as an actress but as a key figure in the media space. Her work continues to inspire upcoming talent within the industry.

Ended Marriage:

Judith Iwu’s marriage ended in 2006. After this, she faced the challenge of raising her three children—Bayo, Kizito, and Angelica—singlehandedly. Despite the personal difficulties, she balanced her responsibilities as a mother with her thriving acting career.

Current Partner:

Judith is currently in a supportive relationship with Ogechi Nwanekwu, who plays a significant role in her life. Together, they navigate their shared life while Judith continues to pursue her passions in the entertainment industry.

Featured

Dele Momodu Bags NAOSNP Media Icon of the Decade Award, Thanks ‘Colleagues’

Published

1 day ago

October 10, 2024

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Veteran and celebrated journalist, who is the Chairman, Ovation Media Group, Aare Dele Momodu, has been named the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP) Media Icon of the Decade for his contribution to the field of journalism as well as lifting budding journalists to reach their desired heights.

The award was presented by the Minister of State for Police Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, who was the Distinguished Guest of Honour at the occasion, assisted by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2, Onikan, AIG Adegoke Fayoade, President of NAOSNP, Samson Oki and a host of other dignitaries present, at the 2024 National Security Conference of the Association, held at the Oriental Hotel, Lagos, on Wednesday.

In her remarks at the presentation, the Honourable Minister praised the Ovation boss for his continuous to journalism, projecting African business and political leaders as well as other Nigerians in a positive light.

“We thank you Mr Ovation for all you do and continue to do. You deserve the award, and I happily present it to you,” the Minister, who reminisced with gusto the season Ovation covered her event, said.

In his response, an elated Dele Momodu, expressed gratitude to the executives and members of NAOSNP, whom he modestly described as ‘colleagues’, for considering him for the award, saying that it is always a thing of joy when your own constituency acknowledges your good works, and shows appreciation.

“I thank the members of this association for this award. It is fulfilling when your own colleagues remember you, and support you with an award of thus type. I thank the honorable minister for being available to present it to me. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said with a sense of patriotism.

Born on May 16, 1960, in the ancient city of Ile-Ife, Osun State, Chief Dele Momodu, a distinguished African Journalist of high repute, fulfills the dictates of impeccability in credentials, testimonials and track record.

A publisher, businessman, philanthropist, and more, he runs the highly rated Ovation International Magazine, a member of the Ovation Media Group, that has given publicity to numerous personalities. Others in his line of publications are Ovation Television and The Boss Newspaper.

Momodu has redefined negative perceptions of Africa, profiling positively African personalities, using his X, Instagram and more, where his followership runs into millions.

A former presidential candidate, Momodu has a degree in Yoruba, from the Obafemi Awolowo University and Doctorates (honoris causa) from various universities, with multiple traditional titles.

He is well traveled, and has visited over 69 countries of the world.

He is married, with four children.

Featured

Kyvatron Revolutionises Arbitrage Trading in Nigeria

Published

3 days ago

October 8, 2024

Eric

Bayo Chisom Iwu, Founder/CEO of Kyvatron, a multinational arbitrage trading company, is changing the face of investment in Nigeria. Established in June 2022, Kyvatron specialises in sourcing commodities and currencies cheaply in bulk and reselling them at a profit.

Iwu’s vision for Kyvatron began as a solo endeavor, but he soon realised the need for a more professional approach to attract major investors. Today, Kyvatron boasts an impressive portfolio, with operations spanning the US, UK, China, and Nigeria.

The company’s focus on arbitrage trading eliminates risks associated with traditional investments. By sourcing currencies and commodities in bulk, Kyvatron capitalises on wholesale rates and resells at retail prices, generating consistent profits.

Kyvatron’s innovative approach has attracted numerous investors seeking to combat inflation and financial insecurity. The company’s stable trading profits have positively impacted many lives, with returns reaching up to 23% per month.

“We specialise in Yuan Arbitrage trading, sourcing Chinese currency in bulk and reselling for profit,” Iwu explained. “Our profit comes from sourcing things in bulk, and with cryptocurrency, we can move billions of naira quickly and efficiently.”

To mitigate risks, Kyvatron deals with established brands and reputable partners, ensuring secure transactions. The company’s use of stable coins like USDT, pegged to the US dollar, protects investors from market fluctuations.

Kyvatron’s expansion plans include establishing more offices in Nigeria, with a focus on creating awareness about the benefits of arbitrage trading. Iwu aims to make the platform more robust, enabling users to pay suppliers directly and facilitating international trade.

“We’re filling a gap in the market, providing a secure and profitable investment opportunity for Nigerians,” Iwu said. “Our goal is to make Kyvatron a household name, synonymous with trust and reliability.”

With its innovative approach and commitment to investor satisfaction, Kyvatron is poised to revolutionise Nigeria’s investment landscape.