Employment in farming or being a farmer does not have the best reputation. Most of the jobs are physically demanding and often poorly paid. There is also the aspect of low yields and low profits, especially for most local farmers in African countries.
However, Agro Bootcamp in Benin is changing this narrative for the local farmers. Agro Bootcamp is teaching urban professionals like teachers, lawyers, engineers, among others, on how to become farmers in just one week. They equip these professionals with skills and knowledge on agribusiness. This includes how to become a profitable farmer within the same week.
Farmer on “Holiday.”
In Benin Agro Bootcamp, every day feels like a holiday for these farmers. They enjoy the work they do as it does not feel like much work. The most interesting thing is they teach all kinds of people from different professions on how to be a profitable farmer in just a week.
“Most people who hear this find it phony, they don’t believe it until they see it,” said one of the farmers who is also a computer Engineer.
Most people, especially from much paying professions, tend to think that farm work is degrading. However, not only do they think it’s degrading but also tend to say it does not pay well.
Quitting urban professions to do farming.
“At first, I had my doubt as well, what if it does not work. What if it completely fails? Says Senam, a lawyer by profession.
However, she still decided to join in regardless of the money. She wanted to enjoy the company and the practical knowledge she would get from it. What mattered to her was having a sense of fulfillment. She now has a success story after working hand in hand with the Bootcamp farmers. Another person who made a transition to farming is Rodrigue. Seven years ago, Rodrigue quit his job in finance to try out farming.
“I would see these farmers often, and they looked happier than I was. I thought I might have a job in finance, but these farmers are living better than I am,” said Rodrigue.
He realized the farmers were making more money than he was at his finance job. So, he began by planting papayas, and things were going great. However, a few weeks later, the market completely collapsed. He realized that farming is proper science. Therefore, he doesn’t think you can learn everything in just one week. If one has no idea of what they are doing, its easy for them to crush and burn.
Success stories from the Bootcamp Farmer.
Rodrigue eventually adapted his business model. He is among the leading and good income farmers in the Bootcamp. Rodrigue now provides seeds and advice to other farmers on social media.
“I do not regret leaving his fancy job at all. Honestly, I am happier now more than ever, very happy with the achievements I have made here.” Says Rodrigue.
In Africa, farmers earn 41% less than non-farm workers. For that reason, Agro Bootcamp also teaches business skills to their students. In less than two years, 35% of their students have put their business plan in action. While the students are only here for a week, after that period, the trainers keep supporting them for six months to even a year. This kind of support and follow up has led to the many success stories here in Agro Bootcamp, Benin.
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