Field-based monitoring: USAID MELSA team visits IAA implementing states

14 April 2023

The USAID Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning, and Social Accountability (MELSA) team has begun a field-based monitoring (FBM) exercise for the Integrated Agriculture Activity (IAA) implementing states in Nigeria. The exercise commenced on 20 March in communities in Borno and Yobe states, after which the team will move to Adamawa and Gombe states in April.

USAID MELSA team member, Professor John Jiya Musa, assessing the Tomapepo product (a mix of tomato, pepper, and onions) made by the Activity's beneficiaries in Kwaya Kusar LGA, Borno State.
USAID MELSA team member, Professor John Jiya Musa, assessing the Tomapepo product (a mix of tomato, pepper, and onions) made by the Activity’s beneficiaries in Kwaya Kusar LGA, Borno State.

The exercise aims to verify the Activity’s output and assess compliance with the annual work plan and other tasks. During this period, the MELSA team assessed agronomy, nutrition, and youth and gender interventions while interacting with the Activity staff and beneficiaries.

The MELSA team speaking with community members who participated in the Activity's interventions.
The MELSA team speaking with community members who participated in the Activity’s interventions.

In Yobe State, especially, the team met with the Director of Agriculture and Extension services and the extension agents. They also visited communities with profiled farmers and interacted with community leaders in Fika, Nangere, and Damaturu LGAs. The beneficiaries in the five implementing Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Borno State were receptive as they shared the Activity’s impact on their lives and communities.

An official report will be filed to the donor (USAID) by the end of April to close the exercise.

Contributed by Joke Fayemi