Food and Agriculture Africa

OFE GARDEN LAUNCHES IN EBONYI – EMPOWERING WOMEN, NOURISHING HOMES The OFE Garden Project – meaning Soup Garden – officially launched in Ebonyi State, courtesy of Her Excellency, the Wife of the Ebonyi State Governor, in collaboration with Natari Foundation Nigeria and A4Success Thailand, the manufacturer of 4Tree organic fertilizer. It was truly a moment of transformation and empowerment as over 130 women were equipped with practical skills to grow the ingredients needed for delicious and nutritious soups right in their backyards. Soup, called OFE in the Igbo language, is a symbol of home, culture, and nourishment. Each participant received: Quality hybrid seeds and seedlings of vegetables and spices 4Tree Organic Fertilizer to ensure healthy, chemical-free crops Hands-on training on organic gardening and micro-farming methods Certificates of Participation recognizing their commitment and readiness to grow Cash Donations  The benefits of having an OFE Garden are endles...

🌿 Founder’s Message – OBE Garden By Oluwatomi Olatoye In 2021, in the heart of Akure, Ondo State, I planted more than seeds—I planted a vision. A vision to see every woman, every household, andevery community growing the very ingredients that make our soups rich, our culture vibrant, and our heritage alive. OBE Garden was born from my love for the land, for our traditional flavors, and for the priceless gift of seeds passed down from generation to generation. In Yoruba, Obe means soup, and soup is more than just food—it is a story of our people, our soil, and our identity. Across Nigeria, every tribe has its own name for soup— Ofe in Igbo, Miya in Hausa, and countless others—yet we are united by the same deep connection to the meals that warm our hearts and bring us together. Our mission is simple but powerful: promote our culture, preserve our seeds, and grow Africa’s flavors for the future. We teach households to cultivate leafy vegetables, spices, herbs, and protein source...

Oluwatomi Olatoye - My Journey with Stevia: A Natural Sweetener from Heaven In 2018, I embarked on a journey that would change my perspective on healthy living forever. I discovered Stevia, a zero-calorie, plant-based sweetener that has become a passion of mine. Initially, I planted a few Stevia stands, hoping to harvest seeds for future cultivation. However, I soon learned that growing Stevia from seeds isn't the most effective method. Undeterred, I experimented with cuttings and was thrilled to achieve successful results. *A Divine Gift* I firmly believe that Stevia is a gift from above, created by God to provide a natural alternative to refined sugar. With its 100% natural composition, Stevia is an excellent choice for those seeking a healthier lifestyle. Its zero-calorie properties make it an ideal sweetener for people living with diabetes, and its plant-based origin ensures that it aligns with my values of healthy living. *Sharing the Benefits* As the founder of Gr...

Oluwatomi Olatoye: Africa’s Pioneer of Seeds and Seedlings as Souvenirs Oluwatomi Olatoye is the first African to introduce the unique and impactful idea of giving seeds and seedlings as souvenirs at parties and events. These are thoughtfully selected, beautifully packaged, and distributed to guests at weddings, birthdays, funerals, corporate events, and community programs. Why Seeds and Seedlings as Souvenirs? 🌱 Promotes food security – Encourages guests to grow their own food, herbs, or flowers. 🌿 Eco-friendly alternative – Unlike plastic souvenirs, plants reduce waste and support the environment. 🌸 A gift that keeps growing – A lasting reminder of the event that can thrive for months or even years. 🪴 Encourages home gardening – Inspires people to start or expand their gardens. 🌍 Supports sustainability – Aligns with global climate action and green living movements. ❤️ Culturally meaningful – In African tradition, planting something symbolizes growth, blessings, and legacy. This...

Some interesting facts about the liver: 1. Largest Internal Organ The liver is the largest internal organ in the human body, weighing approximately 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) in adults. 2. Dual Blood Supply The liver has a unique dual blood supply, receiving blood from both the hepatic artery and the hepatic portal vein. 3. Detoxification Powerhouse The liver is responsible for removing up to 99% of toxins and waste products from the blood. 4. Regeneration Ability The liver has the unique ability to regenerate itself, with some studies suggesting that up to 90% of the liver can be removed and it will still regrow. 5. 500+ Functions The liver performs over 500 different functions, including detoxification, metabolism, production, and storage. 6. Filters 1.5 Liters of Blood per Minute The liver filters approximately 1.5 liters (51 oz) of blood per minute, removing toxins and waste products. 7. Produces 1 Liter of Bile per Day The liver produces approximately 1 liter (34 oz) of bile per day, which ...

Moringa ( Moringa oleifera ) Benefits for Eye Health Moringa is a powerhouse of nutrients and antioxidants that support  eye health and vision . Here’s how it benefits the eyes: 1. High in Vitamin A (Prevents Night Blindness & Dry Eyes) Moringa leaves are  rich in beta-carotene , which converts into  vitamin A , essential for good vision. Helps prevent  night blindness ,  dry eyes , and  corneal damage . 2. Packed with Lutein and Zeaxanthin (Protects Against Macular Degeneration & Cataracts) These antioxidants help  filter harmful blue light  and reduce the risk of  age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts . Protects the retina from  oxidative stress and inflammation . 3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties (Reduces Eye Irritation & Puffiness) Moringa has  quercetin and polyphenols  that help reduce  eye strain, irritation, and swelling . Can be beneficial for  red, tired, or inflamed eyes...