Chris Infotainment

A farmer walking along freshly harvested rice fields struck luck by trapping an unusually large catfish. The familiar rural scene of farmers catching fish among golden rice fields brings a sense of calmness to any viewer. After following a narrow water channel along recently harvested paddies, a man beams as he spots a giant catfish hiding in a shallow pool. With only a traditional bamboo fish trap, he quickly secures the catfish. People nearby rush over to take a look at the oversized catch. The scene briefly turns lively in the otherwise quiet rural setting. Some viewers call the fish a post-harvest bounty. The video captures an everyday moment of rural fishing while offering a simple and calming glimpse of the countryside, leaving viewers relaxed and hungry for a freshly grilled catfish served with ginger fish sauce. Disclaimer: This asset – including all text, audio and imagery – is provided by Kien. VnExpress has not verified or endorsed the material, which is being made avai...

In the southern regions of Vietnam, local communities have developed a unique and traditional method to catch fish during the cold season. This technique involves digging pits in the ground as an effective way to trap fish when they migrate due to the northerly winds. The practice is rooted in history, having emerged as an improvised fishing method before modern tools became widely available. Fishermen would strategically place jars and pots or dig circular holes approximately 30 centimeters wide and 50 centimeters deep along the pathways where water from rice fields flows into canals. These pits are then covered with a layer of soft mud, making them nearly invisible to the fish. This method relies on the natural behavior of fish during colder weather, when they tend to move towards areas with moisture and warmth. To ensure the stability of the traps, jars and pots must be secured in place using wooden stakes. Once the setup is complete, the area is camouflaged with coconut leaves ...

The Challenges Facing Dry-Season Farming in Nigeria This year's dry-season farming operations have started at a slower pace, with many farmers showing a lack of enthusiasm due to the current decline in prices for key food items such as rice, maize, and wheat. This drop in prices, along with rising production costs and other related expenses, has left many farmers hesitant to engage in the process. In 2023, during the same period, a significant number of farmers left their communities to seek out irrigation land for dry-season production, as grain prices were attractive. However, the recent decline in grain prices—particularly for rice, maize, and wheat—has led to substantial losses for farmers. Many who spoke to Weekend Trust expressed that they are not encouraged by the current situation and may either avoid farming this season or do so on a very small scale. The government has launched a dry-season program targeting 500,000 hectares of land. According to Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdulla...

The Essence of Farming Farming is a profound expression of life, rooted in the earth and sustained by the cycles of nature. It encompasses the fields of yields, where springs and sprouts flourish, and grains and nuts grow in abundance. Tubers and fingers, roots and fruits—each element plays a role in this intricate dance of growth. From apple to pineapple, from berry to strawberry, from yam to cocoyam, from avocado to potato, from cocoa to coconut, and even from akple to tuo zaafi, farming is a testament to the diversity of life. The Farmer's Dedication The farmer is a figure of unwavering determination. The cold morning could not hold him in bed after the first cockcrow. The dew could not deny his due, as he embarks on his chosen duty. The rising sun could not shut his reason for rising before sunrise. Wild weeds could not weaken his will to weed the field. He sows his seed in the morning, and his hand does not rest until the evening. After the rain, he casts his seed beneath t...

The Critical Need for Agricultural Extension in Nigeria The 2025 National Agricultural Extension Review and Planning Meeting (NAERPM) has brought to light a pressing issue in Nigeria's agricultural sector: the extremely low ratio of agricultural extension workers to farm families. This ratio is currently estimated at 1:6,466, raising serious concerns about the effectiveness of extension services across the country. Experts attending the meeting emphasized that this gap significantly hinders the delivery of efficient agricultural support, which in turn affects productivity and leads to poor crop yields. The meeting, themed 'Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Agricultural Extension in Nigeria: Addressing Climate Change, Digital Gaps and Gender Equity,' was organized by the National Agricultural Research and Extension System (NAERLS) at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. A communiqué signed by Dr. Habib N. Abubakar of the National Centre for Research on Industrial Crops (NCR...

Kano State Agro-Pastoral Development Project (KSADP) Transforms Agriculture and Livelihoods The Kano State Agro-Pastoral Development Project (KSADP), designed to promote inclusive economic growth, especially among women and youth, has significantly boosted productivity, mechanisation, and income among smallholder farmers in the state. The initiative aims to transform smallholder farming into a viable enterprise by strengthening commodity value chains to tackle rural poverty, food insecurity, and unemployment. Five years after its launch, many farmers in Kano State say they are witnessing unprecedented improvements in yield and agricultural modernisation. This transformation is attributed to the project's comprehensive approach, which includes training, equipment distribution, and infrastructure development. Training and Support for Farmers Aminu Ibrahim Rimin Gado, an agricultural extension worker in Gwarzo Local Government Area, said KSADP has repositioned Kano as the state wi...

The Hidden Costs of Factory Farming Factory farming has become a significant concern not only for animal welfare but also for its impact on human health and the environment. A recent report titled the Factory Farming Index (FFI), released by World Animal Protection, highlights the far-reaching consequences of this industrialized food system. According to the report, factory farming leads to a loss of 1.8 years of healthy life per person globally. Tricia Croasdell, CEO of World Animal Protection, emphasized that this is the first attempt to quantify the widespread harm caused by factory farming. "Very little research currently exists on the multiple effects of the immense global factory farming industry," she stated. Key Drivers of Health Loss One of the main factors contributing to this loss is antibiotic resistance. Factory farms use an alarming amount of antibiotics—66,000 tonnes annually, which is double the amount used in human medicine. This excessive use is primari...

Ethiopia’s Agricultural Transformation: A New Era of Growth and Collaboration In Addis Ababa, on December 4, 2025, the Agriculture State Minister, Melese Mekonen, highlighted a remarkable shift in Ethiopia's agricultural sector. This transformation is driven by the Medemer State vision, which has led to significant progress in the country's farming industry. According to the minister, the agricultural sector has successfully transitioned from subsistence farming to producing market-oriented crops in unprecedented variety, quantity, and quality. This shift marks a pivotal moment in Ethiopia's economic development, as it now aims to meet both domestic and international market demands. The Prime Minister's book, The Medemer State , outlines the previous focus on smallholder plots, which contributed to improved household income but lacked the capacity to generate surplus for broader markets or industrial growth. The text emphasizes the need to move beyond immediate cons...

Innovations in Agriculture Take Center Stage at AgricFair At this year’s AgricFair, held in Ho as part of Ghana’s 41st Farmers Day celebrations, innovative agricultural technologies were the highlight of the event. The fair, which took place on December 3, 2025, served as a platform for researchers and agribusiness institutions to showcase modern solutions aimed at promoting sustainable farming practices. Several key organizations participated in the fair, including the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the KNUST School of Agriculture, the University of Ghana School of Agriculture, and the African Agribusiness Consortium (AAC). These institutions presented a range of advancements that are expected to transform the agricultural landscape in Ghana. Dr. Rasmus Tse, an agricultural researcher from KNUST, shared insights into his team's work on breeding both indigenous and foreign chicken varieties. According to Dr. Tse, their innovations have led to faster grow...

A New Agricultural Boom on the Chars As floodwaters gradually receded across northern Bangladesh, the newly deposited silt has transformed the sandy river islands of the Teesta, Dharla, Saniyazan, and Brahmaputra—locally known as chars—into fertile land, leading to a significant increase in agricultural activities. According to the Department of Agricultural Extension, there are nearly 786 char areas in the northern rivers, and communities living there have started to rebuild their livelihoods after the recent floods. The agricultural sector is showing promising signs of recovery, with farmers focusing on cultivating a wide range of crops. Agriculturist Sirajul Islam, Additional Director of the Rangpur agricultural region, mentioned that this year's cultivation target for the chars has been set at 36,911 hectares, with an expected output of 362,000 tonnes of various crops. He explained that the harvest this year could help many families recover, as a single crop can sustain them...

A New Era of Agriculture on the Chars As floodwaters gradually receded across northern Bangladesh, the newly deposited silt has transformed the sandy river islands of the Teesta, Dharla, Saniyazan, and Brahmaputra—locally known as chars—into highly fertile land. This change has sparked a significant increase in agricultural activities, with farmers working tirelessly to cultivate the land. According to the Department of Agricultural Extension, there are nearly 786 char areas within the northern rivers, and communities residing there have started to rebuild their livelihoods after the recent floods. Agriculturist Sirajul Islam, Additional Director of the Rangpur agricultural region, stated that this year's cultivation target for the chars has been set at 36,911 hectares, with an expected output of 362,000 tonnes of various crops. "Char residents are likely to recover through this year's harvest. A single crop can sustain many families for an entire year," he explain...

Launch of the Vegetable Development Project in Kukuom President John Dramani Mahama has initiated a new vegetable development project, marking a significant step towards addressing food insecurity. This initiative aims to empower farmers by enabling them to grow more food and secure a stable income. The project was launched in Kukuom as a central component of his government's broader "Feed Ghana Initiative." President Mahama emphasized that the primary goal is to ensure Ghanaians have consistent access to affordable, locally grown vegetables throughout the year. The project includes a comprehensive support package for farmers, which encompasses high-quality seeds, organic fertilizer, training, and digital advice. These resources are designed to enhance productivity and sustainability in farming practices. To address the challenge of farmers struggling to sell their crops, the President announced a partnership with FarmMeets, a committed buyer that will purchase all the...

Launch of the Vegetable Development Project in Ghana President John Dramani Mahama recently launched the Government’s flagship programme, the Vegetable Development Project (Yeredua), at Kukuom in the Ahafo Region. This initiative is a strategic intervention aimed at transforming the vegetable sub-sector, reducing the country's reliance on imports, and enhancing food security. The launch of the Vegetable Development Project marked another significant step in the Government’s Resetting Agenda. President Mahama reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to expanding infrastructure, supporting smallholder, medium, and commercial farmers, providing mechanisation services, strengthening storage and markets, investing in agro-processing and value chains, and building a resilient, technology-enabled, inclusive agricultural sector. "With discipline, unity, and a shared sense of purpose, we will feed Ghana, we will grow Ghana, and we will transform Ghana," the President said. He not...

Key Recommendations for Optimizing Wheat Production in Punjab The Agriculture Department has issued a critical reminder to farmers across Punjab, urging them to complete wheat cultivation by November 20 to maximize production outcomes. As the most vital food crop in Pakistan, wheat plays a central role in the nation's food security. Punjab, known for its favorable climate and soil conditions, is targeting a production goal of 10.65 million acres this year. The province’s agricultural potential is significant, with opportunities to boost per-acre yields through proper farming techniques. Cost Reduction Measures for Farmers To support farmers in reducing their production costs, the government has taken several steps. One key measure is the reduction of certified wheat seed prices from Rs6,500 to Rs5,500 per bag. Additionally, both federal and provincial governments have set the wheat support price at Rs3,500 per 40 kg. These measures are aimed at making wheat cultivation more acce...

The Importance of Food Security “There are people in the world so hungry, that God cannot appear to them except in form of bread.” Mahatma Gandhi, 1869-1948. The great Indian leader and liberator made that remark before he was assassinated in 1948 at a time when his country, now divided into at least three nations, suffered from food scarcity worse than Nigeria is experiencing now. Certainly, it can also be said that there are millions of people in Nigeria today, so hungry, that God cannot appear to them except either as a loaf of bread or a bowl of cooked rice. I was only four years old in 1948. So, I had to interview those far older than me to know how the food situation was like at the time – in addition to historical research. Surprisingly, Nigeria was then a net exporter of food at a time when almost 99 per cent of Nigerians were illiterates; when the University of Ibadan was just opening its doors to students. All the Nigerian university graduates could not have been more t...

More than 200 students from Ghanata and Achimota Schools participated in a two-day agricultural learning experience organized by Tilly’s Farm as part of this year’s Porktober celebrations. The initiative, which included field trips and a career day, aimed to expose students to real-world agricultural practices and inspire the next generation of agripreneurs. The first leg of the experience took place on September 29 at Newage Agric Solutions, producers of the popular Evivi Rice. The students toured Newage’s vast operations and processing units, observing the full cycle of rice production, from fertilizer application and pest control to harvesting, threshing, drying, and storage in airtight silos. For many, it was their first time witnessing agriculture beyond textbooks. “I’ve read about rice production in class, but seeing it happen before my eyes was completely different,” said Imoro Safiwu, a student from Ghanata Senior High School. “Now I understand how much science, effort, and...

The Plight of Underage Miners in Plateau State In the heart of Bassa Local Government Area, a 12-year-old boy named Umar Faruk shares his story with determination. "I come here to make money. I don't go to school or learn any skill," he says. "I have been mining for over a year. I use the money to buy food, clothes and shoes for myself. I also support my father with the money I make from tin mining." Umar is one of many underage miners in Plateau State, where children are abandoning education for the promise of financial gain. Despite the harsh realities of life in the mines, Umar remains hopeful. "I hope to go back to school in the future and one day become a medical doctor and help my parents and others, especially my community." His words reflect a deep desire for a better future, even as he continues to work under the scorching sun. Children gather at sandpits, digging and scooping sand to extract precious minerals. Their days begin as early as ...

Reviving Sericulture in Punjab: A Path to Economic Growth Punishing the decline of its sericulture sector, the Punjab Forest Department is implementing a series of measures aimed at revitalizing local silk production. This initiative seeks to increase domestic silk output and reduce Pakistan's reliance on imported silk, which costs the country approximately Rs112 billion annually. Sericulture has long been a vital source of income for thousands of families in rural Punjab, despite facing various challenges over the years. Over 4,000 households, including nearly 4,000 women, are currently involved in silkworm farming across the province. Farooq Bhatti, Deputy Director of Sericulture at the Punjab Forest Department, highlighted that silkworm farming operates in two main seasons: January to April and September to October. He explained that silkworms feed exclusively on mulberry leaves, which makes this cottage industry thrive in areas with existing mulberry tree plantations. Curren...

Introduction to the Agricultural Drone Training Program The Ministry of Agriculture has initiated a ten-day training program focused on the operation of agricultural drones for agricultural experts. This initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at leveraging modern technologies to boost productivity and increase farmers' income. The program, which commenced today in Dodoma, underscores the government's commitment to adopting innovative solutions in the agricultural sector. Key Objectives of the Training The training was officially launched by the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture in charge of Irrigation and Agricultural Equipment, Athumani Kilundumya. During the launch, he emphasized the importance of ensuring that the skills acquired during the training are applied practically and directly benefit farmers. He also highlighted the government's goal of helping farmers increase their income and making the agricultural sector a catalyst for eco...

A Growing Horticultural Sector in Nigeria In recent days, a diverse group of stakeholders including horticultural experts, university representatives, farmers, entrepreneurs, donor agencies, and members of the diplomatic corps convened in Ibadan, Oyo State, for the 2025 HortiNigeria learning event and stakeholder engagement. This gathering brought together a significant number of young horticultural farmers and entrepreneurs from Kaduna, Kano, Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, and other regions across Nigeria to network, exchange knowledge, and explore opportunities within the country’s horticultural sector. HortiNigeria is a program funded by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Nigeria, with the goal of fostering a sustainable and inclusive horticulture industry. The initiative has been instrumental in supporting smallholder farmers, particularly women and youth, who are increasingly becoming key players in this evolving sector. Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Nigeria,...