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*Title: In Kidiya Chanza…!
*By: African Radio Drama Association
Report Type: Radio Drama
*Date: February 23, 2011
*IDRC Project Number: 104139 *IDRC Project Title: Evaluating the efficacy of Radio Drama as a means to strengthen the capacity of smallholder farmers to adapt to climate change *Country/Region: Nigeria, West Africa *Full Name of Research Institution: African Radio Drama Association (ARDA) *Address of Research Institution: Suite 20/20A East Pavilion Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos Island *Name(s) of Researcher/Members of Research Team: Alison Data Phido, ARDA, Farm Radio International, University of Guelph *Contact Information of Researcher/Research Team members: Tel: 234-1-470 5390, 471 0659 Fax: 234-1-461 0029 Cell: 234-803 315 1790 *This report is presented as received from project recipient(s). *This work is used with the permission of African Radio Drama Association (ARDA) *Copyright 2011, African Radio Drama Association (ARDA)
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*Abstract: This 26-episode drama highlights the challenges faced by northern Nigerian farmers as a result of alterations in their environment caused by climate change. A narrator introduces each episode, including the theme of the episode, then the themes are treated in the context of a serial drama involving farming families in three northern Nigerian villages. After the dramatic scenes are completed, the narrator discusses the episode theme with an agricultural expert. Topics treated are those which have been shown to be most critical for northern Nigerian farmers affected by climate change. The first two episodes treat climate change in a general way, raising awareness of the issues involved and providing a basic scientific understanding of climate change. Subsequent episodes cover the following topics: managing soil to maximize available water, fertilizer micro-dosing, integrating livestock and crops, drought-resistant crop varieties, rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation, Striga control, integrated pest management, gully reclamation, agroforestry, crop storage, marketing, access to credit, group purchasing, animal traction, livestock pest management, ethnoveterinary practices, soybean cultivation, and options for fuelwood. *Keywords: Include up to six subject keywords separated by commas.
Climate change adaptation, Nigeria, radio drama
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_________________________________________________________________________
In Kidiya Chanza…! _________________________________________________________________________
EPISODE 1
Topic: General climate change indicators
CAST Narrator (Ribadu) Hindatu Turaki Dorcas Bulus Sahura Tanko Climate Change expert (Yusuf)
1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER … ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5
AND UNDER ... 2. NARRATOR (RIBADU): Welcome, friends, to today’s segment IN KIDIYA CHANZA …
a drama about people just like us, men and women dealing with change in a positive way. My name is Ribadu and I’m a Fulani herdsman like my father before me. Years ago, herding cows was not such a difficult job and one man could own more than a hundred head of cattle and be able to provide and water year round for them. These days, once the dry season begins, every blade of grass and waterhole dries up and we herdsmen have to move our cattle and sheep southwards to where the grass is greener and more plentiful. In the course of this annual movement, I have met such interesting crop and livestock farmers with extraordinary but
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common human stories. I can’t wait to tell you about them and hope that you learn something from their experiences in the process. And so without further ado, come with me to different parts of northern Nigeria. Come with me and meet Hindatu and her family and friends …
3. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ... SCENE 1: 4. SFX: DISTANT VOICES OF CHILDREN PLAYING, RUNNING, CLAPPING,
OUTDOORS 5. HINDATU: (RUSHING ON MIC, ANXIOUS) Turaki! What has happened? 6. TURAKI: (ANGRY, LOUD, PANTING) Hindatu! Where is that lazy son of
yours? 7. HINDATU: (QUIETLY, DEFENSIVE) Haba, Mallam Turaki! Keep your voice down.
This is a school yard. 8. TURAKI: (STILL ANGRY, LOWER VOICE) Don’t tell me to lower my voice!
(IMITATES HER) This is a school yard! And so? (VOICE RAISED) I say, where is that spoiled brat?
9. HINDATU: You mean Zahradeen? 10. TURAKI: Who else? Let me just get my hands on him. I will teach him a
lesson he won’t forget easily in his life. 11. HINDATU: Haba Mallam, take it easy. What has Zahradeen done now? 12. TURAKI: I told him last night that he should come and meet me at the farm
this morning. It is now noon and I’m yet to see him. Who does he think he is?
13. HINDATU: Oh. Ehm, actually, I told him to go to school. 14. TURAKI: (ANGRY AGAIN) You what?! 15. HINDATU: He was getting ready to go to the farm … On a school day … So I told him to go to school. 16. TURAKI: So you instructed your son to disobey me? 17. HINDATU: No. It wasn’t like that. It’s just that you know it’s a school day and
there’s no point for him to miss classes. I don’t want him to lag behind his mates …
18. TURAKI: Is that so? But he will eat right? Now that the rains have finally come, every hand should contribute to the planting. But the two of you would rather go to school.
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19. HINDATU: This is my job, Turaki, and I can’t take off whenever I like. Besides, we both will give you a hand on the farm on weekends.
20. TURAKI: That is right. (SARCASTIC) I forgot that you are now in charge of rainfall, so you know it won’t stop suddenly before the weekend. Thank you. Everyone else is quickly taking advantage of the early rain to plant their grains and pepper. Which was why I’d asked Zahradeen to come and help me.
21. HINDATU: (LAUGHS) Come on now, Turaki … the boy is only seven years old. How much help can he give you, really?
22. TURAKI: (ANGRY, RAISES VOICE) This is precisely what I hate about this whole thing. You spoil him. I was made to farm from the time I could walk. You continue to treat him as if he is a baby rather than a man.
23. SFX: SCHOOL BELL RINGS THE END OF BREAK SLIGHTLY OFF MIC; VOICES OF CHILDREN RISING AS THEY GO OFF INTO CLASSES AND QUIET DOWN
24. HINDATU: (SOUNDING TIRED) Anyway Turaki … why don’t we discuss this later when we get home?
25. TURAKI: (INTERRUPTS HER) There’s nothing to discuss. You have to send the boy to his father’s people because I can’t continue to harbour a person who disobeys my instruction.
26. HINDATU: (SHOCKED) You can’t mean that! 27. TURAKI: I’ve never been more serious. I will not raise another man’s child in
my home and be disrespected in the process. 28. HINDATU: (UPSET, VOICE RAISED) What other man? Zahradeen’s father is
dead, for God’s sake! 29. TURAKI: And so? Doesn’t he have people? Let him go and stay with his
father’s relatives. If they wish to tolerate his schooling, that is their problem.
30. HINDATU: You must be joking. I should send my son away to strangers? He who has already lost one parent?
31. TURAKI: Not strangers. His father’s people are not strangers; they are his flesh and blood.
32. HINDATU: Call it what you like. I’m not listening to you. His place is with me.
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33. TURAKI: I advise you to consider the status of your marriage then because it’s either me or him. He goes or …
34. HINDATU: (VERY ANGRY, INTERRUPTS) … Or what?! 35. TURAKI: (CALMLY FOR THE FIRST TIME) Then we will no longer have a
marriage. Send him to his people or else we call it quits. That’s my final word on the matter.
36. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADE TO SCENE 2 37. SFX: BUSY SCRAPING SOUNDS, GRAINS BEING SCOOPED UP AND
POURED INTO PLASTIC BAGS. SUSTAIN FOR 0.10; DOOR OPENS 38. DORCAS: (SURPRISED SCREAMS) Bulus! (BREATHES OUT) Oh, God thank you.
I almost died of fear. 39. BULUS: Yes, Dorcas, it’s me. (CHUCKLES) Were you expecting someone
else? 40. DORCAS: (MIFFED) No. (PAUSES ONE BEAT) So you finally decided to come
home. What happened? She finally got tired of your laziness and sent you packing? I knew it. Please let me pass …
41. BULUS: Look here, Dorcas. I don’t want your mouth. I didn’t come for that please.
42. DORCAS: Mnn‐nmm? What exactly did you come for? Mts (HISS)! You’ve been gone for one full week. You didn’t even bother to show up when you saw that rain has started falling! Mts (HISS)!
42. BULUS: You’ve started again‐o. Dorcas, watch how you talk to me‐o. I am your husband!
43. DORCAS: (SHOCKED, SCREAMS) What is this? What are all these? Bulus! Why have you packed all this food?
44. BULUS: Oh‐ho. (CHUCKLES) Just a little food for ehm … Rakiya and her children!
45. DORCAS: (LIVID) What?! Bulus, are you alright even? (SHOUTING) No. You have really gone mad!
46. BULUS: Kai! Don’t talk to me like that! 47. SFX: RUSTLING PLASTIC;CONTAINERS OPENING AND CRASHING
CLOSED 48. DORCAS: (IGNORES HIM) My God, look at this! You have taken all our rice
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49. BULUS: It is too small to split … 50. DORCAS: Look at this. I swear, Bulus, God will punish you, you hear? 51. BULUS: Why? What have I done? 52. DORCAS: You want to take food from your children’s mouth to go and give
that hyena and her children? God punish you, Bulus. 53. BULUS: Don’t be so selfish, Dorcas. It’s only food. You should learn to share;
that’s the right thing to do. 54. DORCAS: (INDIGNANT) Right thing? What about you abandoning your
family? 55. BULUS: I didn’t. Am I not here now? 56. DORCAS: Yes. But apparently to steal my food. 57. BULUS: It’s actually my food. In case you are forgetting, this is my house
and the food is from my farm land. 58. DORCAS: What food from which land? You are such a liar and you have no
conscience. You know very well that the maize we harvested didn’t even last six months. Did we grow any rice? Oh‐ho! Did you not sell all the cowpeas we produced and pocket the money? Useless man!
59. BULUS: The important thing is that we have food here when some other people have none during these hunger months.
60. DORCAS: That is why I know that you have lost your mind. Did you even ask yourself how I manage to have food in the house?
61. BULUS: What is the big deal? After all, did you not sell a goat? 62. DORCAS: (Hiss) How many months ago? What did I use to pay for your
mother’s hospital fees? The children’s school fees? If you must know I suffered to carry sand (yashi) everyday in order to buy the little food you see here.
63. BULUS: So what do you want me to do now? All I’m asking is for us to share. 64. DORCAS: (INTERRUPTS) Don’t even say it! Nobody will take my children’s
food that I suffered for, to go and give another woman. 65. BULUS: See how you are running your mouth like an engine. No respect at
all. It’s all because of the new friendship you have developed with that Hausa teacher woman, Hindatu, or whatever she calls herself.
66. DORCAS: What has brought Hindatu into the matter at hand now? 67. BULUS: Oh yes. Because friendship with an educated lady is making your
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head swell up, thinking you need not show me any respect. 68. DORCAS: Tell me another story. We’ve had one whole week of rain. Where
are all the responsible husbands and fathers? They are in the fields struggling to plant their crops quickly to take advantage of the weather since we don’t know how long the rains will last. The best you can do is to come and steal our food.
69. BULUS: Shut up! (MIMICKS HER) Steal our food. Why don’t you call police to arrest me? Nonsense! Quarrelsome woman! By the way, where’s my bath water? Where’s my dinner?
70. DORCAS: Why don’t you go and ask Rakiya, the hyena? 71. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 72. SFX: DOMESTIC AND HOUSEKEEPING SOUNDS … PERHAPS OF
WASHING. METAL BUCKETS BEING DROPPED, POURING OF WATER OUTDOORS IN A RURAL COMPOUND, AS SOUND BED.
73. SAHURA: (CALLS OUT) Pst! Tanko! Tanko, wait! (COMING ON MIC) See how you are pouring with sweat like an Ileya ram. What’s up?
74. TANKO: I wish it would rain. It’s this unbearable heat, Sahura, never experienced anything like it.
75. SAHURA: Are you telling me? See where I poured wash water just now. Already dry as bone. If it doesn’t rain soon, we will all fry … How’s the old man?
76. TANKO: (WORRIED) No improvement. Why ask me? It’s not as if the door to his room is locked against you, Sahura.
77. SAHURA: (LOWERS VOICE) Haven’t you noticed how the old woman is acting as if the whole world has come to an end because Alhaji Maikano is sick? Wearing her mourning face all over the place … And as for me, the moment she sees me, it is Sahura go and do this or go and do that!
78. TANKO: (DISTRACTED) Well, his condition is very bad. And about the errands, you are the youngest wife, Sahura …
79. SAHURA: Haba Tanko! On whose side are you? (PAUSES) Anyway. Where are you rushing off to?
80. TANKO: Baaba sent me to go to Kaworana to inform Hindatu.
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81. SAHURA: Why? 82. TANKO: (IMPATIENT) Why? Ha! Shouldn’t she be told her father is probably
dying? 83. SAHURA: Yes. But do you need to travel all the way to Kaworana to tell her?
Why can’t you just go and call her? I thought you had her mobile? 84. TANKO: Ehn, yes, but Baaba doesn’t want her to get the news by phone …
you know how Hindatu is with any matter concerning her father! 85. SAHURA: I know Tanko. Don’t mind her. But … 86. TANKO: (INTERRUPTS) Have you not heard him? All he is able to say since
the day he collapsed is “Hindatu, Hindatu.” Who knows? He might have something to tell her before he dies.
87. SAHURA: (EXASPERATED, CONSPIRATORILY) Exactly! Ah‐ah Tanko, sometimes you amaze me. Do you think at all? Think! If she doesn’t come when it’s time, he’ll be forced to tell us whatever he has to say. Hindatu is not his only child. My son is there.
88. TANKO: He is still a small boy. 89. SAHURA: Ok. But what about you? 90. TANKO: Me? I’m not his child. Just your brother. 91. SAHURA: Yes, but how long have you been in this house, serving them? You
have done much more than a son in my opinion. 92. TANKO: That’s true. 93. SAHURA: So use your head. If Alhaji Maikano has any secrets or hidden
money, let him tell those of us who are here. Go back and stay by his side. If Hindatu doesn’t come, he will tell you before he dies.
94. TANKO: (UNSURE) But what about Baaba? She will wonder why Hindatu has not come if I have called her.
95. SAHURA: What’s your business with that? Go to the mosque, or go to the farm.
96. TANKO: I can’t go to the farm. Nothing is happening there. No rain yet. 97. SAHURA: Ok then. Go to the mosque and pray for rain. Come back in the
evening and say you have called her. 98. TANKO: Mnnh. Alright. I will do so. 99. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADE TO SCENE 4
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100. SFX: FOOD POUNDING IN A MORTAR, NIGHT SOUNDS 101. HINDATU: (COMING ON MIC) Gafarade! Greetings, Dorcas. 102. SFX: PESTLE IS DROPPED IN MORTAR. POUNDING STOPS; NIGHT SOUNDS CONTINUE 103. DORCAS: (WEARY) Hindatu, sannu, welcome. How now, my sister? 104. HINDATU: I’m alive and thank God. I see you are still at work. This late? 105. DORCAS: Do I have a choice? I have to pound the corn for tomorrow’s meal now because I have to leave early for the market tomorrow. Can’t afford the mill these days. 106. HINDATU: I know. But Dorcas, where are the girls? Why can’t they help you? 107. DORCAS: Oh, those girls work so hard and so long, even the youngest. They went looking for water right after school, then collected firewood. 108. HINDATU: They are good girls, I agree. I hope Baby has time to prepare for the common entrance exams though, with all the work she does. 109. DORCAS: (LAUGHS) Try and stop her from studying! I have to force that child to go to sleep once she completes her chores and starts to read.
(PAUSES ONE BEAT) What is it, Hindatu? You aren’t just paying a late night visit. So what’s up? 110. HINDATU: (SIGHS) I have a big problem. (PAUSES AND SIGHS BIG) 111. DORCAS: (CONCERNED) Ei! Hindatu, what is it? 112. HINDATU: I don’t know what to do, Dorcas. Big problem. It’s Turaki‐o. 113. DORCAS: (ATTEMPTS TO JOKE) Ah. Turaki? No way. If you said Bulus,
there you have a big problem, my sister. 114. HINDATU: I’m serious. He’s always resented my son and treats him harshly. 115. DORCAS: (SHOCKED) No way! 116. HINDATU: Yes. I just haven’t liked to say anything, praying he will get over it.
Now he is asking me to send the boy to his father’s people or face a divorce. 117. DORCAS: No way. But why? 118. HINDATU: Who knows for him? All I know is my child’s place is with me, not with some people that he hardly knows. 119. DORCAS: I can’t believe what I’m hearing. What did Zahradeen ever do to him? 120. HINDATU: I don’t know. I’m still begging him to reconsider. (CHANGES
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SUBJECT) But Dorcas, I see Bulus is still not back. 121. DORCAS: Oh he came this afternoon, but guess what? He came to take some of our food for his woman, can you believe it? 122. HINDATU: Bulus is something else. Is he going to come back and do the planting? 123. DORCAS: He says he will, but one of my sisters told me he is busy helping Rakiya to prepare and plant her fields. 124. HINDATU: No way. That I can’t believe. 125. DORCAS: I wouldn’t be surprised. I just know that I better do something fast; otherwise my children and I will starve to death come harvest. 126. HINDATU: What are you going to do? You can’t handle all three hectares of
land by yourself without any support 127. DORCAS: (SIGHS) You are right, Hindatu, and I can’t afford to hire labour. So what can I do? Nobody knows how long this rainy season will last. Can you believe that we have not planted? Five days of good rain and we have not planted. 128. HINDATU: We must try to figure out what to do about this situation … both
our situations. (SIGHS) Mnnh! If only these men would put themselves in our position and imagine how we feel. God help us.
129. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP 05 AND UNDER 130. RIBADU (NARRATOR): Well my friends. Now you have met Hindatu and Dorcas,
two women with huge problems … What about Sahura and Tanko? What are they plotting? It is going to be interesting to find out, so you must keep listening to this program because there’ll be more. In this installment, one topic that stands out is the unpredictable nature of the RAINY season! As farmers and herdsmen, this is an important topic because our livelihoods depend on the rains. What is happening with the weather, people? What is the cause of the instability with the rains? Let’s listen to some of my favorite music and return to ask someone who will have answers about the topic all farmers are concerned about.
131. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER ... 132. RIBADU: Friends, when the drum beats change we must change our dance
steps. “In Kidiya chanza”… Let’s leave our stories for now and try to get more information. We will discuss the topic that came out of the
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stories we just heard. The issue in this episode is “What is happening with the weather anyway?” Increased water shortages, reduced crop yields, more floods are on the rise. Farmers can no longer rely on the rainy seasons as before. How do we tackle the situation? Would you believe that I ran into my friend, a university teacher who has been studying this very issue? So let’s ask him why it is that, as old as I am with all my experience as a farmer and herdsman, I can no longer tell what is what when it comes to the seasons. His name is Dr. Yusuf. Sannu, Doctor.
133. DR. YUSUF: Sannu, Mallam Ribadu. I hope you are well, God willing? 134. RIBADU: Yes. But I will be better as soon as I understand the weather. What
about your family and your work? 135. YUSUF: Fine. Thank you, Mallam Ribadu. 136. RIBADU: How come an old man like me can no longer predict when the rains
will start so that I know when to start to plant? What is happening to our weather pattern?
137. YUSUF: Well, Mallam Ribadu. What is happening to the weather pattern is just telling us that the climate is changing from what we used to know. The climate has been changing over many years, and as a result, the weather is more variable even over short periods of time.
138. RIBADU: What is the difference between weather and climate? 139. YUSSUF: You can think of climate as being a tale of how weather typically
changes over the day and during the year. It’s like a song where notes and even rhythms can vary. In any climate one sees changes in weather, for example between the dry and wet seasons, or even from one day to the other. The type of climate change that has happened over the last years – which is called global warming – causes the weather to change in unpredictable ways and causes extreme events such as floods and droughts to occur more often and more strongly. The climate is like a song, and the weather is like the notes in the song. When the song changes and we no longer know the tune, we have trouble singing along. We have to learn the new song and anticipate how it can change in the future.
140. RIBADU: So why is the climate changing? 141. YUSUF: Well, the change in climate, which causes an increase in
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variability, is partly natural and partly a result of the activities of men and women on this planet.
142. RIBADU: (SURPRISED) Really? What are the activities we engage in that are causing these changes?
143. YUSUF: For instance, the cutting of trees and depletion of our forests, practices like bush burning and land clearing for farming, the production of electricity with generators, traveling with cars and trucks and motor bikes, as well as producing all sorts of objects and materials in industrial plants. All these activities release gases like carbon and methane into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat in the atmosphere, which causes temperatures to rise. This in turn causes changes in the wind, rainfall and in how ocean water moves around on the whole planet, causing changes in weather patterns in communities like ours, all over the world.
144. RIBADU: Yes! I have noticed the excess heat even during periods in which we expect cool weather, like during harmattan. But let me ask you, how would cutting of trees and forest generate heat?
145. YUSUF: It’s not that it generates heat, but it increases the amount of the gas called carbon that is trapped in the atmosphere. The trees take in some of the carbon because they use it to manufacture food to grow and stay alive. As they grow, they store that carbon in their wood and leaves. If we cut the trees and burn them, the carbon that they stored goes back into the atmosphere. The carbon traps the heat that comes into the atmosphere with the sun’s rays. The same way that glass does in a greenhouse. This is why carbon and other gases that have the same effect are called “greenhouse gases.” Nearby though, trees give us shade and help cool the air.
146. RIBADU: Hmmm, so is there any way to prevent climate change? 147. YUSUF: It’s important to understand that this happens to our whole planet,
and that the industrial activities of developed countries have greatly contributed to this global warming. This is why these countries are so busy talking about how they will reduce their emissions of greenhouse gases and about how to avoid deforestation. They are also affected by climate change! But even if all humans on this earth stopped emitting these gases, the gases that are already in the atmosphere would continue to warm the Earth.
148. RIBADU: So then is there no hope? What should farmers like me do then, as God is helping us?
149. YUSUF: Farmers have already been coping with these changes in a number
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of different ways. Sometimes they have changed their practices to increase their capacity to cope while at the same time maintaining their livelihoods, which is what we call successful “adaptation”. But in other cases they have had to make changes that make life difficult for them. Some have had to move, send members of their families to work elsewhere, sell important assets such as livestock, or have simply become poorer. Luckily, successful adaptation options that have been developed by farmers and by scientists are being studied and promoted. Early maturing seeds, seeds that do well inspite of weeds, methods of conserving soil and moisture in the soil, ensuring that there is enough fodder for their livestock throughout the year – these are some of the adaptation techniques I’d like to talk about. They could be useful for you and your fellow community members.
150. RIBADU: We give God Praise … there is hope. (SIGHS) Ah! Time is not on our side, Yusuf, please I beg you. Will you come back next time to tell us about the promising options to adapt to the changing climate that you mentioned?
151. YUSUF: Why not? It will be my pleasure. 152. RIBADU: Thank you, Yusuf. Friends, I will be here next time to continue with
the stories and information. Meanwhile, if you need more information about today’s topic, call or text your message to … Call your friends and neighbours to join us next time on In Kidiya Chanza … Bye, bye.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Alison Data Phido of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 2
TOPIC: General climate change linked to land degradation
CAST
NARRATOR: Ribadu
Hajiya Baaba
Sahura
Dikko
Sambo
Mallam Kallamu
Uwa (Kallamu’s Junior Wife)
CLIMATE CHANGE EXPERT: Yusuf
1. MUSIC: THEME UP AND UNDER ANNOUNCER
2. NARRATOR: (RIBADU) Welcome, friends, to episode two of IN KIDIYA CHANZA … a drama about people just like us, men and women dealing with change in a positive way. Remember me? My name is Ribadu. I am a Fulani herdsman like many generations before me. Last week, we saw that Hindatu’s father was very sick. Did her second stepmother Sahura and her brother Tanko succeed in keeping her away from her dying father? Let us find out as we meet Hajiya Baaba, Hindatu’s first stepmother. We will then move further north to meet a herdsman named Dikko and his neighbour Sambo. How does Dikko deal with a bitterness he has kept in his heart against Sambo? There’s something going on in the Kalamu household, with his second wife Uwa. Hmm … keep listening …
3. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP – CROSS FADE SCENE TO SCENE 1 4. SFX: SOUND OF ENAMEL COVER OF POT SLIDING OPEN AND
ENAMEL CUP SCRAPING BOTTOM OF CLAY POT, THEN … 5. BAABA: (FRUSTRATED, ON MIC) Haba! 6. SFX: SOUND OF ENAMEL COVER CRASHING DOWN ON CLAY POT 7. BAABA: (SHOUTS) Sahura! … Asabe! … (MUTTERS LOUDLY) Allah will
save me from these lazy people. (SHOUTS) Sahura!
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8. SAHURA: (ANSWERS FROM AFAR) N’am Hajiya. (CLOSE UP) Hajiya Baaba, hope no problem?
9. BAABA: (WEARY & UPSET) Indeed, Sahura, there is a problem. 10. SAHURA: (WORRIED) Oh, what happened, Hajiya? 11. SFX: SOUND OF ENAMEL CLAY POT COVER BEING THROWN OPEN 12. BAABA: Look inside; there is no drinking water in this house at all. 13. SAHURA: (RELIEVED) Oh, is that all? 14. BAABA: (REALLY ANGRY) No, that is not all. Where is the water to wash
Maigida's clothes? 15. SAHURA: Hajiya … 16. BAABA: (CUTS IN) Where is the water to cook his food? 17. SAHURA: (GETTING ANGRY) Am I the one expected to do all the chores in
this house? 18. BAABA: (SARCASTIC) No, I am expected to leave our husband
unattended to go and look for water. 19. SAHURA: (SULKING) Nobody said that. I fetched one bucket of water
today. 20. BAABA: So one bucket will wash his clothes, bathe him, cook for him
and … 21. SAHURA: (DEFENSIVE) I could only get one bucket. Don’t you know that
the well is almost dried up? 22. BAABA: Don’t you know that you get more water very early in the
morning and that everybody rushes to fetch water in the morning before the sun comes up to dry the water in the well?
23. SAHURA: (RUDELY) Ah ... Me … I cannot do that wahala of waking up at an ungodly hour.
24. BAABA: So who was born to do that? 25. SAHURA: Walahi, the problems in this household are just too much!!! 26. BAABA: Indeed!! What do you know about the problems in this
household? And what have you been doing about the problems except sit back and watch others solve the problems?
27. SAHURA: (DEFENSIVELY) That is not true. 28. BAABA: Oho‐o … No drop of water in this house just because I was too
busy to make sure that we have enough water. 29. SAHURA: (COMPLAINING) We must find a solution to this water problem.
I cannot start waking up at 3 am because I am trying to get enough water for the day.
30. BAABA: (MOCKINGLY) No, the water will come and meet you at home. Lazy girl …
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31. SAHURA: (CUTS IN) I am not lazy. I am fed up … too many problems in this house. (MIMICKING) Don’t finish the water … Don’t finish the firewood … Don’t finish the food … (ENDS COMICALLY) How about … don’t finish life!
32. BAABA: Don’t be ridiculous. These are the normal problems that everybody is facing.
33. SAHURA: (DEFIANT) I am not everybody. This is not what I bargained for when I agreed to marry Maigida as old as he is.
34. BAABA: (LAUGHS SARCASTICALLY) Ha ha. Well, my dear, your plan to sit down while servants decorate your hands and feet with lailai has to change.
35. SAHURA: I did not come here to become a servant. Anybody who wishes to be a servant can continue to do so. I have tried my best.
36. BAABA: Which best, Queen Sahura … the best that cannot ensure ordinary water in your household?
37. SAHURA: It is good to complain that work is not done, but what about the well‐being of the person doing the work?
38. BAABA: What about that? 39. SAHURA: See my neck … my back all covered with heat rashes. This
terrible heat … One cannot sleep well at night – never mind waking up early to look for water, Allah forbid! Do you want me to die?
40. BAABA: Stop the drama please … You are not the only one that … 41. SAHURA: (CUTS IN) Hajiya, in that case, look for another servant because I
am not ready to slave for anyone, you hear. Nobody. Shikenan. 42. BAABA: (ANGRY) Very well, your majesty. I will go and look for water,
don’t worry. But get ready to go inside that room and look after your husband.
43. SFX: DOOR SLAMS MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2 44. SFX: SOUND OF DOOR OPENING AND CLOSING 45. KALLAMU: (IN A JOVIAL MOOD) My dearest wife, do you have yogurt to
refresh a thirsty husband? Come here … 46. UWA: (TERSELY) Let go of my hand. 47. SFX SOUND OF CHAIR FALLING OVER 48. KALLAMU Haba Uwa, are we fighting? (TEASING) My beautiful wife … 49. UWA: Mallam, please leave my hand and I only have yogurt for sale
(emphasizing “sale”’).
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50. SFX: SOUND OF MILD STRUGGLE 51. KALLAMU: Come … no … I am not doing anything (LAUGHS). Just sit near
me. What is the matter, dear? 52. UWA: (SULKING) Nothing. 53. KALLAMU: That is not true. For some weeks now you have been going
about with a long face. Tell me, what is the matter? 54. UWA: (DEEP SIGH) Mallam, I am not happy. 55. KALLAMU: I know that already and I am worried that people will soon start
saying that I am unable to make my wives happy. 56. UWA: How can I be happy in a household where some people are
treated better than others? 57. KALLAMU: (LAUGHS IN SURPRISE) Haba Uwa, what do you mean? 58. UWA: How can I be happy when you have chosen to favour your senior
wife? 59. KALLAMU: Uwa, that is not a fair statement. 60. UWA: Alright, Mallam, is it fair the way you have cheated me? 61. KALLAMA: Be serious, Uwa. How have I cheated you? 62. UWA: (ACCUSING) Mallam, when you sold my cow, what did you do
with the money from my cow? 63. KALLAMU: (CONFUSED) I … em … we used it to buy seeds and fertilizer. 64. UWA: Good! When Lami sold her goats what did we do with the
money? (EMPHASISING “WE”) 65. KALLAMU: (STILL CONFUSED) We ... She used the money to pay for her
sons’ university entry and also pay her parents’ medical bills. 66. UWA: Good! So I do not have children and parents to spend my own
money on. 67. KALLAMU: Haba Uwa … 68. UWA: (CUTS IN) Tell me do I not have my own personal needs? 69. KALLAMU: (PACIFYING HER) Of course you have. 70. UWA: So why do you always take things from me and never from
Lami? 71. KALLAMU: That is not true. Besides, I used the money from the sales of the
cow for the benefit of the whole family. 72. UWA: (SARCASTIC) So why didn’t Lami’s money benefit the whole
family too? 73. KALLAMU: (DRYLY) Anyhow, Uwa, the cow was just a loan to me.
Remember I will replace your cow as soon as the harvest comes in. 74. UWA: (SARCASTIC LAUGHTER) Ha! Harvest? Which harvest? Tell me
how a harvest is possible without good crops in the field?
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75. KALLAMU: Well, that is … 76. UWA: (CUTTING IN) Which harvest with no rain for how many weeks
since the first rains? 77. KALLAMU: I know but … 78. UWA: But what, Mallam? With this unpredictable weather...
(DISMAYED) Oh, my cow is gone forever. 79. KALLAMU: (OPTIMISTIC) if your cow is what is making you sad, then cheer
up because I have cowpeas to sell as soon as the price goes up. 80. UWA: (WITH DISBELIEF) So when do you think that the price of cowpea
will go up? 81. KALLAMU: Don’t worry, trust me. 82. UWA: Ha! All I am saying is that you people should because of God
replace my cow which I brought from my father’s house. SCENE 3 83. SFX: OUTDOOR NOISES, VOICES OF MEN TALKING AND JOKING 84. SAMBO: Sannu, Dikko. 85. DIKKO: (ANGRY) Sambo, what is this thing I am hearing? 86. SAMBO: (JOVIALLY) So, you won’t answer my greeting first? 87. DIKKO: I am not ready to exchange pleasantries with a snake. 88. SAMBO: (SHOCKED) Haba Dikko, why are you calling me a snake? 89. DIKKO: So you think you have succeeded in your deceitful plan? 90. SAMBO: (GETTING ANGRY) Choose your words wisely, Dikko. 91. DIKKO: So you want to cheat me out of my own father’s inheritance? 92. SAMBO: That is not possible. I am not even a member of your family. 93. DIKKO: So why would you get my father to take his cattle herd from me
and give you to graze? When his own son is alive and well. 94. SAMBO: (OFFHAND) Oh, is that the problem? That is your father’s choice.
I have no idea why he chose to do that. 95. DIKKO: What have you said to my father? Let me warn you, Sambo, you
cannot get away with this evil plan. 96. SAMBO: (WEARY) I never told your father anything. I was as surprised as
you when he handed his cattle herd over to me. 97. DIKKO: So what other properties belonging to me do you want to snatch
away? Can you not find your own? 98. SAMBO: (DRYLY) I am not aware of any of your property that I snatched
away. 99. DIKKO: You cannot even find your own wife. You must know that the
family in your household rightly belongs to me. 100. SAMBO: Don’t be ridiculous, Dikko. God knows that I clearly won the
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Sharoo contest. Saude became my wife rightfully and you know that.
101. DIKKO: (LAUGHS BITTERLY) He! He! Sambo, it was obvious that you used charms to weaken me during that contest.
102. SAMBO: (EXASPERATED) Dikko, you need to learn how to be a good loser. Come on, admit it – I was really better than you at that contest. I trained very hard for it and you know that.
103. DIKKO: (SARCASTIC) And you are better at being my father’s son too. 104. SAMBO: No, but really I am an experienced herdsman. You probably did
not give your father’s herd adequate care. 105. DIKKO: (ANGRY) So that is the lie you fed my father? 106. SAMBO: (AMUSED) Your father is a wise man, Dikko. No one needs to
feed him any story. He can see for himself. 107. DIKKO: (ANGRY) Let me warn you. If you continue with this evil plan to
take over my inheritance, you will live to regret that choice. 108. SAMBO: You can not be serious, Dikko, you cannot carry this small matter
so far. 109. DIKKO: You try me and you will regret ever crossing my path. 110. SAMBO: (SHOCKED) Ha. May Allah be my Saviour, but can you all bear
witness to this lunatic threatening me for no good reason? MUSIC BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADE SCENE 4 (INSIDE BAABA’S RECEPTION ROOM/PARLOUR) 111. BAABA: So nice of you to come, Mallam. How is the family and
business? 112. KALLAMU: All is well, Hajiya. So how is my friend? 113. BAABA: We give thanks to God. 114. KALLAMU: So can I see him? 115. BAABA: Well … er … eh … 116. KALLAMU: (ALARMED) What happened? Hajiya, are you keeping something
from me? 117. BAABA: Most merciful God be praised … mmh (SIGHS) … Mallam, your
friend is not doing too well. 118. KALLAMU: Haba. In what way, Hajiya? 119. BAABA: Well, it seems he still cannot move any part of his body, still
does not recognize anybody and continues to call out Hindatu’s name from time to time.
120. KALLAMU: Allah be merciful. Where is Hindatu? 121. BAABA: We have not seen her yet.
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122. KALLAMU: Why? Can’t you send somebody to her? 123. BAABA: In fact, I am surprised. Tanko said he went to Kaworana to fetch
her, but she asked him to go ahead and she will be coming later. We are still waiting.
124. KALLAMU: That sounds very strange. 125. BAABA: Very strange and unusual. You know how close Hindatu is to her
father. 126. KALLAMU: Yes, but have you called her phone? 127. BAABA: I gave Tanko money to call her on the phone but she keeps
saying that she is coming. We have not seen her yet. 128. KALLAMU: Meanwhile, can you take him to the hospital before she comes? 129. BAABA: (SLIGHTLY EMBARRASSED) Hmm, we … we have been using
local herbs and potions. 130. KALLAMU: Do you not think the hospital will be better in his condition? 131. BAABA: You are right, Mallam, but we are waiting for Hindatu to see if
we can make up the money needed for the hospital. 132. KALLAMU: (GROANS IN FRUSTRATION) Kai, walahi … this unpredictable
weather has dealt a big blow to us all. I cannot even find help for my friend. Kai … may God grant us all mercy.
133. BAABA. I don’t recall that we have seen it like this in all my many years on earth. Every household is struggling to survive.
134. KALLAMU: I wonder what is delaying the rains. 135. BAABA: The first rains deceived me into thinking that this planting
season will be great. But as you know, since then it’s been nothing but heat and dryness. May Allah save us all.
136. KALLAMU: I planted with the first rains, but without further rains, all my crops are beginning to wither.
137. BAABA: (DISMAYED) May Allah send help. 138. KALLAMU: Do you know that I can no longer sleep at night? 139. BAABA: Oh the heat is terrible … 140. KALLAMU: (CUTS IN) No … no … it’s not the heat. It is fear and worry that
keeps me awake. I have debts to pay. If my crops fail, then there is big trouble.
141. BAABA: (ALARMED) Haba Mallam, you must be strong and believe that God will see you through. Worry is not good, Mallam. It is worry that has caused your friend’s critical ill health.
142. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND UNDER 143. RIBADU: Dear listeners, we keep hearing about serious problems such as
desertification, soil erosion, deforestation and land degradation.
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What do these all mean and how are they connected with climate change? What can we do about all of these in northern Nigeria? For those who are new to this program, I am Mallam Ribadu and my friend here is Yusuf. Yusuf is an agricultural expert and he will help us make sense of all this. Welcome to the program.
144. YUSUF: Thank you, Mallam Ribadu. I am happy to be with you again this week.
145. RIBADU: Yusuf, please help me. I am so confused about all of these words that seem to mean similar things.
146. YUSUF: Yes, I agree, it is confusing! Let’s start with “land degradation.” Land degradation is a process where the value of land decreases as a result of human actions. We’re not talking about natural causes here. These human actions include poor agricultural practices, removal of trees, and overgrazing. By “value,” we mean the services that the land provides us, the crops that it allows us to grow, the wood and fruit that it allows us to harvest, the grass that it allows our animals to graze. Now let’s talk about “soil erosion.” Soil erosion can be both a consequence and a cause of land degradation. It is like a vicious circle: if the soil is less covered, it gets washed away, eroded by water. Then little vegetation will grow. Then there’s “deforestation.” Cutting trees down can result in land degradation if the land is not managed in a way that allows it to produce adequately afterwards for the long term.
147. RIBADU: Okay, so what is desertification? 148. YUSUF: Desertification is a little different. It’s a particular type of land
degradation that occurs in dryer areas and that results in extremely sparse vegetation cover or even bare soil. Desertification is the process that makes dry land barren and unproductive.
149. RIBADU: But how does this all relate to climate change? 150. YUSUF: Climate change has both natural and human causes. It is making
extreme events such as droughts, heat, and storms more frequent and more intense. Droughts can cause vegetation to die or to change its composition. For example, by making the conditions more favourable for certain types of weeds, and less favourable for crops that need more water. Storms can cause floods and wash away soil, further degrading the land. In coastal or delta areas, salty water may enter into and contaminate ground water. This is also a form of land degradation that is worsened by climate change. Another important linkage with climate change is that, if land is
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degraded, it holds less carbon. The carbon it previously held is released in the atmosphere. In the atmosphere, the carbon traps heat, increasing the greenhouse effect and contributing to global warming. This is another vicious circle: the more you degrade the land, the more global warming you get, and the more stress you have on the land, further degrading it.
151. RIBADU: Sometimes, I have the impression that some of my fields are becoming deserts. Should I call that desertification or land degradation?
152. YUSUF: (LAUGH) if you have large areas of bare soil, you would surely be entitled to use both words! I hope that you have not gone that far!
153. RIBADU: But what can I do to regenerate my land and to prevent it from degrading?
154. YUSUF: There are many things you can do to regenerate your land. I am going to mention some things you can do which will help you cope with climate‐related stresses such as droughts and heavy rains. These include keeping water in your soil and soil in your field by using organic fertilizers, by using cover crops, zero and minimum tillage, and by using ridging and other land conservation techniques to stop water from running off your land. You can also increase the productivity of both your crops and your cattle by cleverly integrating crops and livestock, and by using cereal‐legume rotations. You can ensure food for your cattle all year by working with your local government or your community to maintain cattle paths and keeping space for fodder to grow. You can grow fodder crops and trees. You can also reduce the threats to your crops by controlling pests, weeds and diseases. All these practices will help you to protect your land and reduce crop losses. In the next weeks, I’d be glad to talk to you in more detail on each of these topics.
153. RIBADU: Many thanks, Yusuf. I would love to have you back on the show and I’m sure my listeners would too. Friends, I hope you enjoyed today’s episode. I will be here next week with more drama and information. Remember to call or text ……. for more information. Tune in same time, same station next week, and listen up with your friends and family! Bye for now.
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Acknowledgements This episode was written by Vera Fulu Adesanya of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). Additional scripting and editing was provided by Alison Data Phido of ARDA. This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 3
Topic: Keeping water in your soil and soil on your field through integrated land and fertility management
CAST Narrator ‐ Ribadu Dorcas Mama Bulus Hindatu Turaki Kalamu OC Mallam Yusuf – Agric expert
1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, UNDER FOR 0.5, THEN PROGRAM TITLE
AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER ...
2. NARRATOR (RIBADU): Welcome friends to today’s segment of IN KIDIYA CHANZA … a drama program about people just like us, men and women dealing with change in a positive way. My name is Ribadu and I’m a Fulani herdsman, well, retired, like my father before me, who I may also say is … retired. Okay, seriously now, one of the major problems farmers and herdsmen alike face nowadays is poor and unproductive land. Most of the previously arable land in all the zones within our region has become dry, sandy and infertile. Poor yield is a common experience of farmers and yearly migrations to the southern zones in search of food and water for cattle has become the order of the day. What can we do to adapt to these and other signs of climate change? Okay friends, let’s not get ahead of ourselves, it’s still IN KIDIYA CHANZA … Later during the program we’ll discuss more about this pressing issue. However, it’s time for us to check on our friends in different zones of northern Nigeria and how they are dealing with their various challenges. Remember Dorcas?
3. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ...
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SCENE 1: 4. SFX: KNOCK ON THE DOOR 5. DORCAS: (CALLS OUT OFF MIC) Mama, Mama Bulus!! Where are
you? 6. MAMA BULUS: (ON MIC) Dorcas, is that you? 7. DORCAS: Yes, mama. 8. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES GENTLY 9. MAMA BULUS: (WARMLY) Dorcas my daughter, I am in here. 10. DORCAS: Mama, I didn’t realize you had come inside. I had gone to
look for you at the back yard … I hope everything is alright.
11. MAMA BULUS: Dorcas, you worry too much. Everything is okay. I only came inside to rest my back a little. I had a very long day at the farm today.
12. DORCAS: Your back? Does it hurt? 13. MAMA BULUS: It will be alright, Dorcas. Don’t worry. 14. DORCAS: I brought you dinner. 15. MAMA BULUS: Thank you, my daughter. I only wish my son Bulus was
half as caring and thoughtful as you. Has he come back home at all?
16. DORCAS: Bulus? Home! Mama, I’m still praying for that. 17. MAMA BULUS: Not even now that the rain has started? 18. DORCAS: Does he care? He is busy tending the farm of his
girlfriend, Rakiya. At least that’s what I’ve heard. 19. MAMA BULUS: My God. What spell have the evil ones cast on my son?
God, who is behind all this? Who is this Rakiya? She must be a witch because I didn’t bring up Bulus to be so useless. She must have done something to him.
20. DORCAS: Mama, just take it easy, all we can do is pray for God to open his eyes so he can see the folly of his ways and return home to me and the children.
21. MAMA BULUS: Dorcas, you’ve been such a good wife to my son and a
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wonderful daughter to me. I can’t see why any man would let you go. I was so happy my son married you. Now I’m not so sure because he has become totally useless.
22. DORCAS: Mama, my concern is for my children. Now that Bulus has refused to farm his land, what will we have during harvest? Nothing! How will I feed my children? Mama, what will I do?
23. MAMA BULUS: Can’t you farm the land by yourself? 24. DORCAS: Mama, do you want him to kill me? If he comes back, he
will ask me where I got the nerve to touch the farm in his absence. Even if I decide to risk it, where is the money? Where will I get money for seeds or fertilizer?
25. MAMA BULUS: Ah ah Dorcas, don’t you have a goat or a pig? You can sell one at any time. You know that’s how we all get money.
26. DORCAS: Mama Bulus, I already gave Bulus two goats and a pig so he could buy seeds but I don’t even know what he did with the money.
27. MAMA BULUS: Enh enh? 28. DORCAS: When I asked him, he became so upset I thought he was
going to kill me. 29. MAMA BULUS: Dorcas, this matter is worse than I thought oh. 30. DORCAS: Mama, even if I decide to risk it, sell my animals to farm
the land, Bulus may come during the harvest, take everything to his girlfriend and I’ll end up losing everything.
31. MAMA BULUS: Never, he can’t do that! 32. DORCAS: Mama, he can do worse. At least I’ve caught him once
taking our food to his girlfriend. 33. MAMA BULUS: What? What’s wrong with that boy? Look, Dorcas, I have
a land that I can give to you if you don’t mind. 34. DORCAS: Mind? Am I mad? How will I mind when that’s what I’ve
been praying for. 35. MAMA BULUS: That land has been abandoned for years because it
became infertile. 36. DORCAS: Where is it? 37. MAMA BULUS: It’s close to the highway, after the bridge. I’m sure the
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weeds would have taken over by now. But it’s yours if you want it.
38. DORCAS: Mama, thank you so much. I’m sure I’ll find a way to cultivate that land. Thank you mama, may God bless you. Thank you. I just wish Bulus is …
39. MAMA BULUS: Don’t worry my daughter, everything will be fine. If it is medicine that Rakiya is using to hold him, it will soon lose its power. I will show you the land tomorrow.
40. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2 41. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND BANGS SHUT 42. HINDATU: Turaki, welcome. 43. TURAKI: (ANGRILY) Is that how a wife welcomes her husband?
Enh? Answer me, Hindatu. 44. HINDATU: Turaki, what did I do wrong? I only welcomed you back. 45. TURAKI: Hindatu, you are so disrespectful and that’s what you’ve
been teaching that boy of yours. 46. HINDATU: Zaharadeen is our son, Turaki. 47. TURAKI: He is your son, not mine. I can’t father a useless child like
that. He is so dumb and I’m sure he got that trait from his father.
48. HINDATU: Turaki, please, I think you are just tired. Come let me get your food.
49. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES OFF MIC 50. TURAKI: Is that him? 51. HINDATU: Turaki, stop this. He is just a boy. 52. TURAKI: Just a boy you say. Does that mean you teach him not to
greet his elders because he is a boy? Or tell me, why is he not here to greet me? Didn’t he hear my voice?
53. HINDATU: Turaki, Zaharadeen is afraid of you. You don’t let him be at all.
54. TURAKI: Is that an excuse? What have I done to him now?
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Zaharadeen is a spoilt kid and all you do is make excuses for him.
55. HINDATU: Turaki, I’m not making excuses for him. He’s particularly afraid today because he knows he has done something wrong and he doesn’t know how you’ll react.
56. TURAKI: He always does something wrong. So what is new? 57. HINDATU: (HESITANTLY) Turaki … 58. TURAKI: Hindatu, say what you have to say and stop wasting my
time. 59. HINDATU: (BLURTS OUT) He lost your tools. 60. TURAKI: What? 61. HINDATU: (HESITATES) N … not intentionally. He was bringing back
the tools but on his way he lost them. 62. TURAKI: Lost it? Can a basket of hard‐earned, expensive tools just
grow wings and fly? 63. HINDATU: Turaki, I’m sorry. He really didn’t mean to. He just
stopped by to play with his friends and by the time he went back, the tools had disappeared.
64. TURAKI: What nonsense is that? I don’t want to see that boy again in this house.
65. HINDATU: Turaki, where do you want him to go? 66. TURAKI: Back to his father’s family, anywhere! Just get him out of
here. He is nothing but a burden and a fool. He adds nothing to this house and still he is trying to lose my livelihood.
67. HINDATU: Why don’t you take it easy? I can’t let him go; he is my son.
68. TURAKI: Then go with him. I don’t even want you anymore. Go with your retarded son.
69. HINDATU: Do you know what you are saying? 70. TURAKI: Are you calling me stupid? I said we are through. Go away
with your son. And don’t come back. 71. HINDATU: Why are you so mean and wicked, Turaki? What has
gotten into you? 72. TURAKI: You don’t know what wickedness is. If you don’t leave my
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house this minute, with your son, you’ll be surprised of what I’m capable of.
73. HINDATU: That’s alright, thank you, Turaki. Just give me time. I will pack. May God forgive you.
74. TURAKI: Leave!!! 75. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 76. OC: Who is in this house? Kallamu, Kallamu! Where are you? 77. KALLAMU: (OFF MIC) Ah, Oga OC, is that you? I’m coming oh. 78. OC: Abah, Kallamu, so you’ve been inside since. 79. KALLAMU: (GRADUALLY COMING ON MIC) Oga OC, don’t be angry, I
was just rounding up my prayers when I heard voice. 80. OC: I almost thought you were avoiding me. 81. KALLAMU: (ON MIC) Abah, why would I do that? I know I owe you
money, but I wouldn’t avoid you because of that. You are welcome at anytime.
82. OC: Okay, no problem. I was only surprised the door was left open and no one was answering. How is your family?
83. KALLAMU: Everybody is fine. Please sit down. What will you drink? Kunu? My wife Uwa made some delicious and cold kunu – you can have some.
84. OC: (CHUCKLES) No, no. I’m okay, Kallamu. 85. KALLAMU: You know, OC, I would have come to pay you the money I
owe you, but you know I planted early with the first rain. But the rain stopped for the past two weeks and all my crops have been destroyed because of lack of water.
86. OC: My friend Kallamu, you know we were all deceived by that first rain. I also lost a lot of my crops. In fact, everyone I know lost a lot.
87. KALLAMU: I’m glad you understand. Times are really hard. Do you know I even sold one of Uwa’s cows in order to buy special seeds and fertilizer? And I lost everything.
88. OC: My friend, that’s nothing to be ashamed of. I’m sure
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every farmer in Kakaran Jatau must have one tale or the other. It’s really a difficult time for everyone.
89. KALLAMU: Thank you, OC. We have to thank Allah for men like you who are helping poor people like us during this difficult time.
90. OC: Poor? You poor? Kallamu, please spare me. You are not a poor man. Abah!
91. KALLAMU: But I’m not rich like you now. Have you forgotten, you are the only Officer‐in‐charge in Kakaran Jatau. 92. OC: (LAUGHS) Kallamu, we are all the same oh. OC or no OC,
we are all experiencing bad times oh. 93. KALLAMU: So how are you managing? What are you going to do
when the rains return … I understand it is raining very well south of here.
94. OC: Ah, I reserved some maize, sorghum and millet seeds during the planting at that first rain. That’s what I will plant when the rainy season stabilizes.
95. KALLAMU: I wish I had that same sense. Anyway, I won’t let that stop me. I’ll still pay you the money I owe.
96. OC: Kallamu, I’m not here for money and stop talking about it, I know you’ll pay. If not, police will swarm this place in no time.
97. KALLAMU: (LAUGHS) Funny. (SKEPTICAL) But you don’t mean that, right?
98. OC: (LAUGHS) So how is our Mai anguwar? 99. KALLAMU: (SADLY) God is Supreme. The man is not doing well at all.
He can hardly talk and he can’t move. 100. OC: That is so sad. How is the family coping? 101. KALLAMU: They are managing. Although I don’t think the daughter,
Hindatu, is back yet. 102. OC: Do you think he’ll make it? 103. KALLAMU: With prayers. 104. OC: Insha Allah. I have to go now. Regards to your family. 105. KALLAMU: Thank you so much, OC. God willing (Insha Allah), I will
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sell my cowpea and get good money for it. Then I will be able to pay my debts.
106. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADE TO SCENE 4 107. SFX: KNOCK ON THE DOOR 108. HINDATU: (SPIRITLESSLY) Come in, the door is open. 109. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 110. DORCAS: Hey, Hindatu. I’m so happy. So happy. 111. HINDATU: Really? Is your husband Bulus back home? 112. DORCAS: I’m still praying for that day. 113. HINDATU: Dorcas, I’m glad you are happy. But if it’s not for Bulus,
why? What’s up? 114. DORCAS: Mama Bulus gave me a piece of land! Hindatu, I’m about
to have my very own farm. My very own. 115. HINDATU: (FORCES EXCITEMENT) Really? That’s very generous of
her. Congrats. At least now, you can be sure of producing food for your children without worrying about Bulus and his tantrums.
116. DORCAS: Hindatu, tantrums? Bulus’ behaviour is nothing short of crazy and irresponsible.
117. HINDATU: So, does his mother know? What did she say? 118. DORCAS: Mama Bulus was shocked to say the least. I didn’t even
tell her everything. I didn’t tell her about how her son maltreats me and my daughters. But the little she heard petrified her.
119. HINDATU: She seems to be on your side. So is she planning on talking some sense into Bulus?
120. DORCAS: More than that. She believes he must be under some spell.
121. HINDATU: I think all men are under some kind of spell these days. They seem to only think of themselves and no one else.
122. DORCAS: Hindatu, is Turaki still being an ass? 123. HINDATU: Dorcas, just leave that man alone. He’s the same as ever.
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So, do you know how lucky you are to have such a generous and understanding mother‐in‐law?
124. DORCAS: Hindatu, she is so good. You know I was so shocked when she offered me that land. I felt a rush of emotions.
125. HINDATU: I can imagine. So where is this land? 126. DORCAS: Near the highway. She said it was abandoned years ago
because it became infertile. (HESITATES) Don’t you think the land would have become worse by now?
127. HINDATU: On the contrary, it will be better. Leaving the land alone for some years is a method our fathers used to restore overused and infertile land back to its fertility.
128. DORCAS: Really? So if a land that has become infertile is left for a while, it will become fertile?
129. HINDATU: (INTERJECTS) Yes, if it was left uncultivated for a number of years.
130. DORCAS: I see. Why don’t you come with me to see the land? You know so much about farming and all. I’m sure you’ll have one or two things to tell me about the land.
131. HINDATU: No problem, Dorcas. Just let me know when. 132. DORCAS: Thank you so much, Hindatu. You are such a good friend. 133. HINDATU: What are friends for? We can even go there tomorrow. 134. DORCAS: That will be so great. (PAUSES) Are you okay? 135. HINDATU: Yes. Why? 136. DORCAS: I don’t know, I think you are just a little reserved today. Is
everything alright? Is it Zaharadeen? 137. HINDATU: No, it’s not Zaharadeen. (STUTTERS) We are fine, really! 138. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP 05 AND UNDER 139. RIBADU (NARRATOR): Things are lighting up for Dorcas while her friend
Hindatu still has problems of her own. It seems the traditional method of fallowing will do Dorcas’ new farm a lot of good. That is what we will be discussing today. Shortly, I’ll have with me here someone who can really help shed
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some light on our most pressing farming concerns. Meanwhile, let’s listen to this very interesting song.
140. MUSIC: POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER … 141. RIBADU (NARRATOR): Welcome back, my people. I hope you enjoyed the
music. It’s time to obtain some answers to some of our questions. I know a lot of you want to know why your land becomes unproductive, and you seem at a loss for what to do about it. Well, we will attempt to answer those questions and more today. With me here is Mallam Yusuf. He is my friend and an agric expert. You are welcome to this program once again, Mallam Yusuf.
142. MALLAM YUSUF: Thank you, Ribadu. You are doing very good work here, you know.
143. RIBADU: Thanks. I really want you to tell my friends out there a lot today, especially about soil infertility.
144. MALLAM YUSUF: What exactly do you want to know? There’s a lot to say about infertility of the soil.
145. RIBADU: Okay, my friend. Please start by telling us the various causes of soil infertility.
146. MALLAM YUSUF: The top of the soil can be washed away by water or by wind. And the topsoil is where most of the soil nutrients are. However, there are human activities that can also make a land unproductive.
147. RIBADU: Such as? 148. MALLAM YUSUF: You know, sometimes our people cultivate a land that is
already weak or fragile. That is very dangerous to the land 149. RIBADU: How will one know a land that is fragile? 150. MALLAM YUSUF: If the land cannot support plant growth and productivity 151. RIBADU: I see. 152. MALLAM YUSUF: Ribadu, that’s not all. Overgrazing exposes the soil to
wind and water erosion, the topsoil washes away and the land becomes infertile. Also, continuous cropping without adding any nutrients back exhausts the soil’s nutrients and the land becomes unproductive.
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153. RIBADU: Are you saying that if a land is cultivated too often it will become less fertile?
154. MALLAM YUSUF: You are very correct, Ribadu. Continuous planting of the same crops and the burning of crop residues and grass all reduce the fertility of the soil. If a land does not have enough organic or mineral fertilizer, the land is infertile.
155. RIBADU: I see. So what happens when a land is infertile? 156. MALLAM YUSUF: That’s simple. It simply becomes unproductive. Poor land can
give nothing more than poor crops. This of course makes the farmer poorer because he gets low yields from his crop and most times the grain quality is poor. No one will buy poor quality crops.
157. RIBADU: Also, I know that infertile soil makes farmers use more fertilizer and herbicides than normal.
158. MALLAM YUSUF: You are very right, Ribadu. That invariably increases the overall cost of cultivation and in the long run even makes the land more infertile.
159. RIBADU: So, Mallam Yusuf, what can be done to improve the soil? I mean, there must be something farmers can do to make their soil more productive.
160. MALLAM YUSUF: Oh, a lot can be done. You can use organic and inorganic fertilizer, rotate leguminous crops with cereal, and use cover crops. Especially, the importance of using leguminous crops cannot be overestimated.
161. RIBADU: What are leguminous crops? 162. MALLAM YUSUF: Many leguminous crops grow low to the ground. They cover
the soil and protect it. Leguminous crops add nutrients to the soil because they manufacture their own nitrogen from the atmosphere and fix it into the soil. Examples are cowpea, groundnut and soybeans.
163. RIBADU: So what do leguminous crops do? Apart from us harvesting and selling them during harvest.
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164. MALLAM YUSUF: (CHUCKLES) Apart from eating or selling leguminous crops, planting them helps to improve soil fertility for other crops. They also provide good protection for the soil.
165. RIBADU: I remember you said overgrazing can affect the soil. 166. MALLAM YUSUF: Yes. It exposes the soil to sun, wind and rain with no
protection and will give room for erosion. 167. RIBADU: Oh oh. 168. MALLAM YUSUF: Ribadu, have you ever wondered where all our forest went? 169. RIBADU: All the time, Yusuf. These days all we see are houses and
more houses. No more forests. 170. MALLAM YUSUF: That’s really one of the problems. If we can only start
planting trees again, our world will be much better and our land more fertile.
171. RIBADU: How will people plant trees when all they want to do is plant enough crops for their consumption and then trade some?
172. MALLAM YUSUF: Through a process called agroforestry. This means that farmers can plant both crops and trees. Acacia1 is a good tree that can be planted for this purpose. The trees will provide shade for the land and the other crops. In addition, the fallen leaves of the trees increase the fertility of the soil.
173. RIBADU: That makes a lot of sense. 174. MALLAM YUSUF: We therefore have to dissuade our people from cutting down
trees or burning trees. This will encourage soil erosion; that is, it will cause the topsoil to wash or blow away rapidly and this causes soil infertility.
175. RIBADU: Because of God, trees take years to grow to maturity. So one must consider very well before cutting even one down.
176. MALLAM YUSUF: Some people are thus discouraged from planting trees because they grow so slowly
177. RIBADU: Yusuf, there is a Kanuri proverb that says that the best time to plant a tree is twenty years ago and the next best time is today. (LAUGHS)
1 Acacia is a large plant family whose typical member is called Bagaruwa in Hausa.
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178. MALLAM YUSUF: (LAUGHING) True, true. A wise saying indeed. Start today and before you know it that small shrub has grown into a tree.
179. RIBADU: I would have loved to ask you about manure and fertilizer but that’s not what we are focusing on today.
180. MALLAM YUSUF: Oh, I see. I can however tell you that manure is very good for the soil. Animal manure, fertilizers and crop residues can be used to add nutrients to the soil to restore the soil productivity.
181. RIBADU: Thanks for that but we will have an intensive discussion on just fertilizers and manure at a later date, I know.
182. MALLAM YUSUF: Okay. 183. RIBADU: Thank you for coming on this program, Mallam Yusuf. I hope
you will be able to come again whenever we call. 184. MALLAM YUSUF: Thanks for having me, Mallam Ribadu and you know I’ll be
here whenever you need me. 185. RIBADU: I’m going now but I’ll be back on the same station and same
time. Thank you, my friends, for staying with us and be here next time when we bring you a fresh exciting episode of In Kidiya Chanza … Bye bye.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Rebecca Ojedele of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 4 Topic: Keeping water in your soil and soil on your field through soil management practices CAST Narrator – Ribadu Sambo Saude, his wife OC Altine Laila, Saude’s friend Ngozi Mallam Yusuf – Agricultural expert 1. Music: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER… 2. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP AND UNDER ... 3. NARRATOR (RIBADU): Welcome, my good people to IN KIDIYA CHANZA … a
drama program about people just like me and you. Men and women dealing with the challenges of climate change. My name is Ribadu. Don’t forget that I’m a Fulani herdsman like my father before me. I am sure you’ve been following my stories so far and also enjoying the characters and situations you’re meeting along the way. In today’s story I am going to introduce you to some real people living with the challenges of their community and finding solutions to their situations. Enjoy with me.
4. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ... SCENE 1 5. SFX: SOUND OF A SMALL RADIO TUNED TO A HAUSA STATION, UP
AND UNDER A FEMALE VOICE HUMMING A SONG AT THE SAME TIME.
6. SAMBO: (KNOCKING ON THE DOOR) Salama Aleikun (Peace be unto this house)! 7. SAUDE: Aleikun Sallam (May peace be unto you too). Ah, Sambo, welcome. 8. SFX: SOUND OF STATIC AS RADIO IS BEING TUNED SEARCHING
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FOR SIGNAL 9. SAMBO: (PLAYFULLY SCOLDING) Saude, can you not give some rest
to the poor radio once in a while? Haba, morning, afternoon, night … Kai, this radio has suffered in your hands since you arrived in this house. Do you want to kill it before its time?
10. SAUDE: Maigida, but you should know that the radio keeps me company. It is my friend when you are away from home working hard just to keep us happy. And in fact it keeps me informed about the goings‐on. Like yesterday …
11. SAMBO: (INTERRUPTS HER) It’s alright. Just try to save the battery. You may have to buy the next batch. 12. SAUDE: May Allah provide. Amen. 13. SAMBO: My dear wife, there are very lucrative matters arising. 14. SAUDE: Maigida, you have come with those riddles of yours today again.
What exactly do you mean? Anyway, before you continue, let me get you cold water to drink.
15. SAMBO: No, don’t worry about that now. This is no riddle. It is a very serious issue. 16. SAUDE: Tau (ok), let’s hear it then. 17. SAMBO: Saude, I am going back on the road. 18. SAUDE: You mean …? 19. SAMBO: Yes, Saude. I’m going back to herding cattle. I’m taking a herd
southwards for some weeks, hopefully before the rains come. 20. SAUDE: Sambo, this plan seems sudden to me. You did not even hint to
me at all. What will become of our farm when you are gone? 21. SAMBO: I have thought of that. I will come back at the first hint of rain or
storm to prepare the land for planting millet and groundnut. But for now, being hired to graze people’s cattle should get some additional earnings for us.
22. SAUDE: (GRUMBLING) You know I really thought the rains would have come by now. One never knows these days when it will be harmattan or when the rainy season will start.
23. SAMBO: That’s just it. They are so unpredictable these days that it would be foolish to just sit here and wait for it. We all have to move south in search of greener pastures …
24. SAUDE: If I may ask, who are the people involved in this? 25. SAMBO: They are not too distant from us – Ali, Sani, Ribadu, Mallam Wada and ... 26. SAUDE: What? Who, Maigida? Which Mallam Wada? I hope not Dikko’s
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father? 27. SAMBO: Kwarai, (That’s right). Dikko’s father. He’s given me the larger part of the entire herd. 28. SAUDE: Haba Maigida, No. (REFLECTIVE) But why, Sambo? Is something
wrong with his son Dikko, who has been grazing their family’s herd since childhood?
29. SAMBO: Is that my business? 30. SAUDE: My husband, I don’t want to be an apostle of ill luck but we all
know the kind of person Dikko is. I can’t see Dikko taking this quietly.
31. SAMBO: My dear, you don’t need to worry. I have looked at all the options and I assure you that all is well Insha Allah (God willing). 32. SAUDE: Maigida, please, it is still a good time to drop Mallam Wada’s
offer to avert any wahalla (conflict). I beg you, my husband. You can do business with the others, but this one, hmn, I have a bad feeling.
33. SAMBO: But what can happen? Why are you so scared? 34. SAUDE: This is just trouble for no reason. Dikko has been threatening to
do us harm since he lost out at that sharroo (traditional contest consisting of flogging endured by young Fulani men in order to win their brides) when you won my hand in marriage. He is mean and dangerous. I don’t want to be a widow soon.
35. SAMBO: May God forbid it. But Saude, learn to ignore him and his empty threats. He lost you. I won you. Too bad for him. 36. SAUDE: It’s easy for you to say. Still. Hmn. (Still worried) But what possessed Mallam Wada to hire you? 37. SAMBO: (TEASES HER, LAUGHING) Apart from the fact that I’m the best
herdsman in the whole of Dogon Alheri? San rai na (love of my life), there is a reason why Mallam Wada wants me on this job. Dikko is increasingly irresponsible. Do you know that he has depleted his own father's herd from over 100 to just 40? No calves in two years. He keeps telling the old man stories. Anyway, the arrangement I have made is very lucrative. It will help me to build my own herd.
38. SAUDE: Baba na, you can still build a herd from the work from the others. It needn’t be from Dikko’s father. 39. SAMBO: You fear too much. What can Dikko do to me really? Remember
how I finished him at the sharroo? Just relax. It is because you all fear Dikko’s temper tantrums and let him have his way that he always bullies everyone with his unreasonable behavior.
40. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO
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SCENE 2 41. SFX: DISTANT SOUND OF AN OLD SPLUTTERING MOTOR CAR
ENGINE COMING CLOSER, THEN STOPPING. HOOTING OF HORN, ENGINE IS TURNED OFF, CAR DOOR OPENS AND BANGS CLOSE. OFF MIC.
42. OC: (OFF MIC) Al salam u aleikun! (Peace unto this house)! 43. ALTINE: (ON MIC) Amin Aleikun (may peace be unto you too) … who is there? 44. OC: (COMING ON MIC, JOKES) Who else but the only OC in town? 45. ALTINE: Ah, ah, ah. Officer in charge! Please enter, OC. Did you need permission in the first place? 46. OC: Ehen, Altine. Good words. But one must still hail the traditional blessings of peace upon your household, no? 47. ALTINE: Of course. You are right. OC, OC, it is nice that you’ve come. As a
matter of fact, I was just thinking of sending a message to let you know I’ll see you later today.
48. OC: Well, that’s good then that I’ve saved you the trouble. I am sure we are thinking in the same direction. 49. ALTINE: How are you coping with the tiredness of the whole election process? 50. OC: My dear, it has come and gone and one has learnt some
tricks. It’s all tricks, my dear. Wallahi, basu da gaskiya. (I swear, they don’t have truth in them.)
51. ALTINE: OC, I want to believe that one of the reasons why we failed is because people are not so sure of your faithfulness to our culture.
52. OC: Haba, even when I took your advice and married my cousin Dije, all in a bid to show that I accepted the culture? You know how this singular act has offended my wife Ngozi and my children.
53. ALTINE: But that was actually a grand strategic move you know. And she will get over it. 54. OC: (AFFIRMING) No doubt! 55. ALTINE: That’s not the end of it all. At least we tried. 56. OC: (REFLECTIVE) Altine, maybe I should have listened to you and sent gifts of fertilizer and money to the District and ward heads. 57. ALTINE: Perhaps. Well, that’s all past now. Imagine that nonentity
opponent of yours winning more votes than us? How was that possible? It’s rigged.
58. OC: A man who on a good day cannot win an election in his own
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household … 59. ALTINE: (LAUGHS) Anyway, OC, it has not come to an end yet. 60. OC: Altine, what else is left for me? I have lost money, property and
even my peaceful home life. Where am I going to start from now? 61. ALTINE: You lost so much I know, but remember too that we your
followers lost some of our valuables too, including money. OC, there were several things I spent money on in the interest of your success that I did not need to announce to you.
62. OC: (SOFTLY) And that is why I have come to personally thank you for all the effort you put to this agenda. Honestly, Altine. Indeed, I am really grateful for everything.
63. ALTINE: Haba, what are we friends for? Politics, after all, is a game. We keep learning the tricks each time. 64. OC: Thank you again. You are really an inspiration to me in this time of painful loss. 65. ALTINE: But why worry? Just look around you; there are many other opportunities just staring at you in the face. 66. OC: (CONFUSED) How do you mean, Altine? 67. ALTINE: OC, these days even a Mai‐anguwar’s (a village head’s) position
is very much beneficial if you know how to use it to get close to the people who matter.
68. OC: (STILL THINKING) I still don’t understand. 69. ALTINE: I know you’re naïve on this. Take it or not, the Mai Anguwar’s
seat in your community of Kakaran Jatau is vacant. You should be looking into that.
70. OC: (AMUSED) A‐l‐t‐i‐n‐e! Haba, Alhaji MaiKano has not died yet. Are you going to kidnap him and declare him dead and buried? Kei!
71. ALTINE: Sit there and let a fine chance like this pass you by. Time to act, OC. 72. OC: What now, Altine? 73. ALTINE: (SERIOUSLY) Alhaji Maikano is as good as dead, OC. Better make a bid for his seat. 74. OC: There is no chance of this. One ascends to the seat based on heredity. 75. ALTINE: OC, I see you still don’t know me. In fact you are
underestimating my importance in this town. If I say make a bid, don’t argue.
76. OC: My dear, I don’t doubt your political connections. But when it
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comes to traditional politics, kai, I don’t think there’s much we can do.
77. ALTINE: OC, you really don’t know about my background? (TRIES TO EXPLAIN) My mother’s uncle is the current District Head. Don’t you know what that means?
78. OC: Of course, no doubt. 79. ALTINE: I can get you that seat. I can also ensure that you are made the sole distributor of fertilizer to the farmers in the community. 80. OC: (OVEREXCITED) This is superfluous. This is a great idea! Where
would I be without you, my dear? You are indeed the woman of power.
81. ALTINE: (NOT SO SURE NOW) The thing is, if we were related, like even married, this whole plan would have been a walkover. (SIGHS) Well, we will still try what is possible.
82. OC: (EAGER) In that case, why don’t we get married? 83. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 82. SFX: HOUSE CHORE NOISE, SWEEPING OF FLOOR, ETC. 83. LAILA: (OFF MIC) Salamu aleikun, Saude? Are you in? 84. SAUDE: Aleikum wa Sallam (may peace be unto you too). (Answers from
within) Ah, ah, ah Manyan mata (young lady), ya m‐aa‐t‐a … (lady) how now?
85. LAILA: Saude, kwana biyu (been a while). I’ve been really busy at home helping out my mother. 86. SAUDE: Laila, I expected you to come more often to see me. You know
it’s no longer possible for me to visit you as I used to now that I’m a married woman.
87. LAILA: I understand, Saude. And I will always come to visit you I promise until I find myself too in my husband’s house, God willing.
88. SAUDE: (TEASINGLY) Don’t tell me someone is … 89. LAILA: (INTERRUPTS HER) Ah ah. I didn’t say anything of that nature. By
the way, what is all this talk around town that Dikko is threatening your husband?
90. SAUDE: (AGITATED) Where did you hear it? Oh, I said it! Laila, I said It! 91. LAILA: Saude, What is going on? Is Dikko still upset that he lost the sharroo to Sambo and couldn’t marry you? 92. SAUDE: Well that and the fact that he has lost face again because his
father took his entire cattle, about 40 cows or so, and gave them to my husband to herd.
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93. LAILA: No wonder Dikko is pissed. He has not forgotten his defeat at the sharroo two years ago and has sworn hatred for the two of you, calling Sambo a cheat. This won’t go down well with him at all.
94. SAUDE: My feelings exactly. But you see, Laila, I warned my husband over this job, but he wouldn’t listen. Anyway, I am not surprised. Do they ever listen to us? Men are always men. They don’t see anything good in our advice.
95. LAILA: (CONSOLING) Don’t worry at all. After all, you married a fearless man who has already proven at the sharroo that nothing shakes him.
96. SAUDE: (LIGHTENING UP) Truly, Laila, God was on my side that day for Sambo to win the sharoo. 97. LAILA: You can say that again, lucky girl. Had Dikko won, what would you have done? 98. SAUDE: God forbid. I might have run away or something worse. Do you
know something, I was praying so hard during the entire contest. 99. LAILA: (LAUGHS) Thank God, my dear. Dikko is such a sore loser. He
has being going around claiming that your husband used juju to weaken him during the event.
100. SAUDE: What Juju? It was he in fact who had various charms and amulets. 101. LAILA: What an annoying man. I tell you, Saude, Dikko has really
lost the respect of a lot of people in the town. You see, even though your husband is not a rich man, at least everyone respects him and considers him an honourable man in this community.
102. SAUDE: (EXCITED) Look, Laila, I consider myself truly a lucky woman in my marriage. My husband Sambo is such a loving, caring and responsible husband. He respects me. Do you know that we discuss everything together and make our decisions for our family?
103. LAILA: Lucky you. Yes, I see that you have good understanding. And he’s a good father, isn’t he? From my observation. When I am ready to marry, I hope I will equally be fortunate to catch someone like Sambo. (LAUGHING)
104. SAUDE: (JOKING) Should I tell my husband to come around your house? 105. LAILA: Stop that joke. I mean, a good man like your husband, not a man
like Dikko. Can you believe that devil has suddenly started showing up at my father’s house as if they are best friends?
106. SAUDE: You don’t say! You don’t mean Dikko has put his searchlight on you for marriage?
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107. LAILA: That Is what everyone is speculating. As for me, it really does not concern me because every plan of his will be frustrated. Let him just try.
108. SAUDE: (LAUGHING AND TEASING HER) Ah, soon‐to‐be wife of Dikko, please tell me more stories. 109. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 4 110. SFX: NOISE OF SEWING MACHINES, etc. 111. OC: (COMING ON MIC, HAILING HER) Ngo‐Ngo! The finest woman in
the whole of the world. Ever young, ever beautiful! In fact, for your beauty alone, death ran away from me during the battle at the war front. I cut you double salute. (BANGS LEG ON GROUND AND SHOUTS “IWARAM, IWARAM”)
112. NGOZI: OC, my husband, today na wa oo. What good thing have I done to deserve this entire encomium? 113. OC: Haba, Ngozi, my darling. How can I say it all? Let’s see now.
(LISTING) You are a wonderful wife, a good mother, a clever business woman, a patient and beautiful lady ... If you could imagine how proud I am of you, you would understand. Ngozi, what would I have been without you?
114. NGOZI: OC, alright, just go ahead and say what you want to tell me. Stop beating about the bush, I beg you. 115. OC: Haba Ngo my wife, there is nothing spectacular. Or is it a crime
to hail my God‐given, beautiful, dutiful, and responsible wife? Come to think of it, I just want to remind you of how I feel about you because, for some time now, we have not been talking as we used to and I really miss our closeness.
116. NGOZI: Kai, OC, with all this talk, what you want must be really serious and big. 117. OC: Well, there is nothing much. However, I wanted to ask your
opinion on an important matter that will benefit our family, I think. 118. NGOZI: I knew it. Go ahead, I’m listening. 119. OC: (SERIOUS) I just want you to be aware of how supportive
Altine has been to me through this trying period of politics. Altine’s effort toward my success during the campaign and election for the chairmanship was really big. We owe her a big debt of gratitude.
120. NGOZI: (GETTING EDGY) My husband, look, I don’t want to argue on this. But, for heaven’s sake, how has that helped or affected me here?
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121. OC: I know you will understand when I explain the details. But you see, the wonderful thing is that Altine will be of even greater help to the entire family in moving ahead after this fraud that made me lose the election to my opponents.
122. NGOZI: OC, I still don’t see what you are getting at. In what way is she going to be of help to the family? 123. OC: (HAPPILY) En‐hen, now you are asking the kind of beautiful
questions I knew you would ask as a beautiful and intelligent woman. (LOWERS HIS VOICE WITH EXCITEMENT) Look, she has promised to help me get the seat of Mai‐Anguwar.
124. NGOZI: (SHOCKED) Hmn, heh? OC. Can’t you see? I think it is now clear what people have been saying. 125. OC: What? 126. NGOZI: That that woman, Altine or whatever her name is, has plastered
your brain for it not to think correctly again. Now tell me, have you created another anguwar out of this town? Is it possible to have two Mai Anguwars in the same town, Kakaran Jatau?
127. OC: Wait now. Let me explain. The truth is that, at the present, the current Mai Anguwar is very sick and not getting better. He can no longer carry out the active functions to better the lot of his subjects. Look, this place obviously needs leadership and I assure you that I can fit perfectly into that role. Altine is putting in a word with the …
128. NGOZI: (SURPRISED, INTERRUPTS HIM) Wait, wait, wait … emm … is it that same Altine who promised to help you become the chairman that is now peddling this new futile enterprise?
129. OC: (NOT HAPPY) Yes, go ahead. 130. NGOZI: Haba, even you yourself and everyone in this town knows that
the seat can only be ascended through heredity. This is a pipe dream.
131. OC: My dear, this is real! It is real because the District Head is Altine’s relative. You are such an unbeliever. 132. NGOZI: Well, I think it will take a number of people like me put together
to be able to convince you. All I can do is to wish you luck in your pursuit of the impossible.
133. OC: But there is a condition. To make this deal work, I have to marry Altine so that she will be able to use her connections to help me into the powerful circles.
134. NGOZI: I knew from the beginning where all these were going. When you
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came with all those hailing, I knew you were up to something. I knew that bad news was coming.
135. OC: (PLACATING) Ah – ah. Stop that. Don’t mention this as portending anything evil. In fact, having Altine in the family would be a blessing rather than bad news.
136. NGOZI: (FURIOUSLY) OC, you seem to have forgotten the promises you made to me before we married 25 years ago in the East. You said you will not marry a second wife. Last year, you married your cousin Dije, according to you so that people will agree to make you Chairman. Now you want to take a third wife.
137. OC: (ASSERTIVE) Ngozi, look here, I am the man in the house and I am doing what is best for the family. 138. NGOZI: (SARCASTICALLY) OC, my husband how can that be when you
no longer contribute to the family’s upkeep? Let me remind you that most of our savings have gone towards looking for impossible political positions.
139. OC: (INTERJECTS)The political position will benefit you and the rest of the family. (TEASINGLY) I am already seeing you as the first wife of a powerful man (TRYING TO PUT HER IN A GOOD MOOD).
140. NGOZI: (LAUGHS SCORNFULLY) Look, I am too busy for dreams, OC, with my tailoring, the shop, and food processing and keeping the house and having to farm. I’m sorry I have no time to daydream.
141. OC: My dear Ngo, look, soon all of your suffering will be over when I become the Mai Anguwar, and to tell you the truth, all we just need is to first marry Altine.
142. NGOZI: Alright OC, go ahead and marry Altine if you like … that wonderful woman of yours who is going to get you a position that is not even vacant.
143. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP 05 AND UNDER 144. RIBADU (Narrator): My good friends, I am sure you have followed the drama
so far with interest. You have met the young couple Sambo and Saude, and Dikko, a young man spoiling for a fight. OC and Altine are combining some political and love intrigues. The future looks interesting. We expect to see more manipulations and betrayals … I am sure you are already itching to know how these stories will continue to unfold. In this instalment, one topic that stood out is the migration of herdsmen southwards in search for greener pastures. It is not only crop farmers who are grappling with climate change conditions. Both they and livestock breeders are struggling
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to produce food and fodder from soil that is either devoid of moisture or flooded by storms. What is to be done? Change the dance steps certainly – but to what? Come along to the discussion corner with Hajiya Mariam and let’s talk about it and find solutions.
145. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER... 146. RIBADU: I hope you enjoyed that music. It’s a favourite of mine. Friends,
wise men have always maintained that when the drum beats change, we must also change our dance steps. No doubt the climate is changing. We see that in the variable weather we experience nowadays. The seasons are not as clear cut as they used to be and even old experienced farmers and herdsmen like myself have to learn ways to adapt and ways to make sense of what is happening. We are going to discuss keeping water in your soil and soil on your land through soil management practices. What are the methods we can use to increase infiltration of water into the soil? Hajiya Mariam, thank you for coming to help us make sense of what is baffling young and old experienced farmers alike.
147. H. MARIAM: It’s my pleasure. I too am learning from you and the experienced farmers that I interact with on a daily basis. 148. RIBADU: Please let’s get on with our topic which is how to ensure that our soil retains moisture. 149. MARIAM: Actually, climate change together with some unsustainable
land use practices have rendered much of the arable land in northern Nigeria dry, short of nutrients and vulnerable to wind and rain erosion. I will try to explain what I mean by this as our discussion continues. However, to begin with, it is important to note that when soil lacks moisture, it turns dry and dusty or even cracks, thus becoming infertile.
150. RIBADU: Doctor, from what you say, it looks to me that we may have no way out of this situation and it may get worse. 151. H. MARIAM: It is indeed a difficult situation. But we have hope if we do the right things to help the situation. 152. RIBADU: How do you mean, doctor? 153. MARIAM: There are some methods that can be used to increase moisture
in the soil and prevent the fertile topsoil from being blown or washed away by wind or heavy rain.
154. RIBADU: These methods you talk about – how can ordinary people access them? 155. MARIAM: Some of them are already in use traditionally by farmers in some
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communities. There are a few we can talk more about now as time allows.
156. RIBADU: Then fire on, please. I am sure our listeners are eager to know what to do in order to avoid the situation. 157. H. MARIAM: The first we can draw on here are cover crops. Cover crops
are usually creeping legumes which cover the ground surface. Cover crops protect the soil from splashing raindrops, increase water infiltration, and protect the soil from too much sun. They build up organic matter in the soil, and improve soil structure. The leguminous cover crops in particular can increase soil fertility through adding nitrogen to the soil. Cover crops can also suppress weed growth, reduce soil compaction, control erosion and help manage insect pests. Crops like cowpea are widely used as cover crops in northern Nigeria, intercropped with cereals. Groundnut Is another crop one can use as a cover that will also introduce necessary nitrogen to soil to improve its fertility.
158. RIBADU: This sounds good and is something we can easily experiment with. Hajiya Mariam, you said there are other means. We are listening to you.
159. H. MARIAM: Yes, Baba Ribadu and listeners. Another method is mulching. It is important to note that areas with marginal rainfall like some of the zones in the northern region usually respond better to mulching with dead organic material than to cover crops. This is because mulch is not alive, so it does not compete for water and nutrients.
160. RIBADU: Mulching. Hmn. Will you please expand on this topic? It sounds very interesting to me. 161. H. MARIAM: Mulching is covering the soil between crop rows or around
trees with grass, straw, or crop residues. The mulch layer is rougher than the surface of the soil and thus slows down water runoff, thereby improving infiltration of water into the soil, and reducing the evaporation of soil moisture.
162. RIBADU: I see, Tell us more if you don’t mind – perhaps how to actually do it. 163. H. MARIAM: Okay. The layer of plant material mixed into the soil protects
the soil from splash erosion during heavy downpours. Putting in the dead plant material also prevents the soil from forming a hard crust. Now as to how to do it, mulch is most effective when applied at the start of the rains because it will intercept the rain and increase water take‐up in the soil. Having said that, it is frequently more
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practical to mulch just before the end of the rains when grass is available to use as mulch.
164. RIBADU: What you have said about mulching and how it helps the soil to retain water make such perfect sense that many farmers listening to you must be excited to try it out. Don’t you think so, Hajiya Mariam?
165. H. MARIAM: Yes, Baba Ribadu, I believe that farmers who wish to manage their soils to benefit from the rains should try mulching. The difficulty, for many however, is that mulching requires a large amount of plant material, which is not always available to farmers in dry areas. Farmers around here may completely remove plant materials for animal fodder, or for firewood or construction material.
166. RIBADU: (DISAPPOINTED) This is true. So mulching might be unpopular even though it is a good idea? 167. H. MARIAM: Ah Baba, there’s no reason to be crestfallen. One possibility for
farmers is to stop burning grasses, and to use dead weeds and grasses from the field and surrounding areas as mulch, and to leave a certain amount of crop residue on the field to obtain a protective mulch layer. However, this could lead to weed problems if weed seeds are transferred to the field.
168. RIBADU: This is really instructive. It means therefore that everything – even weeds and grasses – has its own value. 169. H. MARIAM: Yes, indeed. There is nothing that is totally useless. 170. RIBADU: Did you say there is another method? 171. H. MARIAM: Yes, Baba. Let me quickly mention the practice of putting up
barriers to reduce the speed of running water on a sloping land. These barriers can be made of stone or living plants such as vetiver grass. These barriers are built or grown along the contours of the slope to slow the speed of runoff water. Plant material such as maize stalks can also be used. Living plant barriers are usually constructed as single lines or in strips which are several metres wide. The barriers decrease the speed of runoff water and stop the soil from being carried away downslope. The soil which is carried along by water piles up behind the barrier, which decreases the slope of the soil, and forms a kind of terrace. It is important to note, however, that this method is only suitable for gentle slopes.
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172. RIBADU: We give God praise … there is hope after all. (SIGHS) Ah! Time is far gone. My dear daughter, I hope you’ll come back next time to tell us more about the promising options to help us in solving these environmental problems?
173. H. MARIAM: Why not Baba? It will be my pleasure. 174. RIBADU: Thank you, Hajiya, who is also a doctor of agriculture by the
way, so it is useful to listen to her. Friends, I will be here next time to continue with the stories and information. Meanwhile, if you need more information about today’s topic, call or text your message to …….. Call your friends and neighbours to join us next time on In Kidiya Chanza…. Bye bye.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Dr. Martins Ayegba Drama and Development Communication at the Ahmadu Bello University, Samaru, Zaria. Additional scripting and editing was provided by Alison Data Phido of ARDA. This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 5
Topic: Micro‐dosing of fertilizer can help your crops do better in unpredictable weather CAST Narrator – Ribadu Hindatu Dorcas Mama Bulus Bulus Mallam Kallamu OC Hajiya Mariam‐ Climate change expert 1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER 2. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER ... 3. NARRATOR (RIBADU): Times have changed, seasons have become unpredictable
and the climate that we’ve known for so long has become … what will I call it? Erratic? Truth is, people like you and me have to adapt to those changes. Else, we will have less food and we won’t be able to support and feed our families. (PAUSE, EXCITED) Friends, you are welcome to another exciting episode of In Kidiya Chanza … where I tell you stories of men and women I’ve met during my days as a herdsman and how they are dealing with the issues of climate change. Hey, I shouldn’t be talking too much when you can actually hear them yourself. I hope you learn a thing or two or more from their experiences. (CHUCKLES) Oh!! There I go again talking too much. Okay, let’s see what Hindatu and Dorcas have been up to since we last heard from them.
4. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO .. SCENE 1 5. SFX: OUTDOORS ON A FARM THAT IS CLOSE TO A HIGHWAY, SOUND
BED OF BIRDS, INSECTS OR FROGS, DISTANT SOUND OF VEHICLES SPEEDING PAST, WIND, YET VERY QUIET.
6. DORCAS: So, here we are! 7. HINDATU: (SURPRISED) Dorcas, I can’t believe it! This farm is large.
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8. DORCAS: (HESITANTLY) Yes, true, but that’s what scares me. Hindatu, don’t you think it’s too big? I mean, Hindatu, tell me, how will I
manage this? Alone? 9. HINDATU: Hey Dorcas, you’ve got to be grateful. You wouldn’t have had a thing if your mother‐in‐law hadn’t given this farm to you. 10. DORCAS: Hindatu, trust me, I’m grateful. I’m just scared. Just look at all the weeds. This farm has been abandoned for years. 11. HINDATU: (EXCITED) Truly that’s a good thing because now, the soil will have gotten its fertility back. 12. DORCAS: Are you sure? 13. HINDATU: Positive. So what are your plans? (GOOD‐HUMOREDLY) Now that you are a proud owner of a farm? 14. DORCAS: (LAUGHS NERVOUSLY) Hindatu, don’t joke because right now
I’m worrying myself sick about how to clear this land. It will take a dozen men to remove all this. Ahhh!
15. HINDATU: What’s that? Are you alright? 16. DORCAS: It’s nothing! Just thorns. I’m okay. 17. HINDATU: You need to hurry and get people to clear this land for you
because you know, now that rain is falling steadily, everyone is busy working on their own land.
18. DORCAS: Yes! And those that don’t have their own land are being hired already. Maybe I should just set fire to the land. That would save me
from lot of trouble 19. HINDATU: What? Dorcas, you can’t do that. Bush burning will totally ruin
the land. Many of the nutrients it has gathered over the years will be lost.
20. DORCAS: How? What’s the difference? At least … 21. HINDATU: Hey Dorcas, don’t even consider that. You said this land was abandoned because it lost its fertility right? 22. DORCAS: Yes, so what does that have to do with clearing the land? 23. HINDATU: Everything, if you decide to burn the bushes. Because that will
strip the soil cover and bake what little moisture there is in the soil and destroy the nutrients and microbes in the soil.
24. DORCAS: Yeah, I guess that could happen. Okay, teacher Hindatu. Do you teach agric science too? 25. HINDATU: (LAUGHS) You know I don’t. But in these times, we need to learn all we can. 26. DORCAS: Sure. (WORRIED AGAIN) But Hindatu, come to think of it, even if
I can hire all the labour I need, how in God’s name will I pay them?
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27. HINDATU: Dorcas don’t worry, Allah that gave you this land will help you through. 28. DORCAS: I hope so. 29. HINDATU: (SADLY) I only wish I could give or at least lend you some money from my savings. But I need to rent a place. 30. DORCAS: (SURPRISED) Why would you do that? Hindatu, tell me, what’s wrong?
31. HINDATU: It’s Turaki. He has sent me and my son Zaharadeen out of his house.
32. DORCAS: But that’s impossible. Divorce? Just like that? What’s wrong with him?
33. HINDATU: Dorcas, I don’t know. I don’t know what to do. 34. DORCAS: I’m so sorry, Hindatu. Do you want me to talk to him? 35. HINDATU: Dorcas, there’s nothing you can do. I’ve tried to reason with him
for years but he just won’t budge. 36. DORCAS: You mean he still wants you to get rid of your son? What’s his
problem? 37. HINDATU: Yep! But of course I won’t do that. 38. DORCAS: Oh Hindatu, what will you do? 39. HINDATU: Rent a place and stay there with my son. I’ll move on from there.
Now that I’m divorced … I don’t know, Dorcas. I just don’t know. 40. DORCAS: I’m so sorry. Hindatu, you should have said something. I wouldn’t be carrying on like I’m the only one with problems. 41. HINDATU: Dorcas, please don’t feel bad. To be honest, I’m rather relieved.
At least now we can all rest from his constant threat of divorce. 42. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2 43. SFX: COCK CROWS, BIRDS CHIRPING 44. MAMA BULUS: (OFF MIC, GRADUALLY COMING ON) Bulus! Bulus! Bulus, come
out. Come outside here. 45. BULUS: (OFF MIC) Who is it? Who is screaming like that? 46. MAMA BULUS: Bulus, come outside and talk to me. Woman wrapper, come and
tell me that I’m screaming. I say come out and say it to my face. 47. BULUS: (ON MIC) Mama, what is it? How did you know that I was here? 48. MAMA BULUS: (EXCLAIMS) Allah, see what they’ve turned my son into. 49. BULUS: Mama, you are shouting. Do you want to wake the entire
neighbourhood? 50. MAMA BULUS: Let me wake them. Bulus, I will wake them. Let them know that
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that … that woman has put something into your food. You’ve been jazzed.
51. BULUS: Mama, nobody jazzed me. Rakiya is a splendid woman. 52. MAMA BULUS: Hey! Can you hear yourself? What happened to your wife? Ehn?
Are you saying that your wife Dorcas is not splendid? Enh? What is it with this woman? What has she given you?
53. BULUS: Mama, you don’t understand. 54. MAMA BULUS: Understand what? Enh? You want me to understand that one useless woman has kept you under her armpit? 55. BULUS: Mama, stop abusing Rakiya, that’s not fair. 56. MAMA BULUS: What’s not fair? Are you fair to your wife Dorcas? Or to your children? 57. BULUS: Mama, I’m doing this for you and our family. 58. MAMA BULUS: How? Bulus, how? Am I the one that told you to shack up with another woman? 59. BULUS: Mama, this other woman will give me a male child. She will give
me an heir. She will give birth to the boy that will carry on the name of this family.
60. MAMA BULUS: Ha Bulus. You are totally dumb. God, I didn’t know there was absolutely nothing in that big head of yours. Foolish no sense.
61. BULUS: But mama, you can’t honestly say that you don’t want a male child. How will this family go on without a male child? Who will
carry on the name of our fathers? 62. MAMA BULUS: (INTERRUPTS) Enh enh! Bulus, that’s enough. Who are you to
condemn your children because they are girls? You are my son and of what use are you to me? Enh Bulus, answer me!
63. BULUS: Mama, why are you saying that? 64. MAMA BULUS: Why won’t I? What have you done for me as my son? When I was ill, were you there? 65. BULUS: Mama, you know I would have been there. It’s just that Rakiya was very sick after a miscarriage … 66. MAMA BULUS: (INTERRUPTS SADLY) Bulus, listen to yourself. You traded your mother for a concubine. 67. BULUS: Mama, it’s not like that. 68. MAMA BULUS: (SADLY) Shut up, Bulus. Shut up. If not for Dorcas your wife that
helped me throughout the three weeks, what would I have done? I didn’t even set my eyes on you.
69. BULUS: (DEFENSIVELY) I’m sure Dorcas only did that to get into your good books. She is nothing but a scheming …
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70. MAMA BULUS: I can see that you have totally lost all sense of shame. You have become a useless, good‐for‐nothing son. I am totally disappointed
in you. 71. BULUS: Mama, if you’ve only come here to abuse and curse me, then I think you should just start going. 72. MAMA BULUS: Go where? I’m not leaving here unless we are leaving together. 73. BULUS: Mama, I am not going anywhere. This is where my home is now. So why should I leave? 74. MAMA BULUS: Oh, so you plan to stay here until the rains go completely and your farm remains uncultivated? 75. BULUS: Oh, that farm? I’ll deal with it after I finish helping Rakiya with
her farm. Just go home, mama, we’ll talk about this later. I promise to check on you as soon as I’m free.
76. MAMA BULUS: I’m not going anywhere. This is where I’ll stand until you leave this place and go and be a responsible husband and father.
77. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 78. SFX: KNOCK ON THE DOOR 79. OC: (OFF MIC) Kallamu! Kallamu!! Are you there? 80. KALLAMU: (ON MIC) Who is there? 81. OC: Kallamu, it’s OC. Don’t you recognize my voice anymore? 82. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 83. KALLAMU: (FORCED EXCITEMENT) Ha oga OC, the only officer in charge in
the whole of Kakaran Jatau. I didn’t know. Welcome. Welcome. 84. OC: Thank you, my friend. Kallamu, Kallamu. How is the family? 85. KALLAMU: Fine. Very fine. Welcome. Officer in charge. Welcome. Sit down. What can I offer you? Kunu? 86. OC: (UNEASILY) Kallamu, thank you. I’m fine. Nagode. So em … Is
everything alright? What em … how is your family and your farm? 87. KALLAMU: (NERVOUSLY) Fine! Fine!! 88. SFX: SILENCE 89. KALLAMU: So, OC, is all well in your house? 90. OC: Ah, yes. All is well, although it could be better. 91. KALLAMU: OC, please I’m so sorry that I’ve not been able to come by your
house. It’s because I’m so ashamed. I’ve tried hard to raise the money.
92. OC: (INTERRUPTS) Oh, Kallamu! I’m not here for the money … I know you’ll repay me as soon as you have it.
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93. KALLAMU: (SIGHS IN RELIEF) Thank you so much my friend. I’ve been so worried. 94. OC: (LAUGHS) Ah ah, Kallamu, that’s so funny. Look, I trust you.
I know you’ll repay me. And there’s so much more we can do for each other. (LAUGHS SOME MORE)
95. KALLAMU: OC, I’m so happy to see you laugh oh. You know that there hasn’t been much to laugh about these days. 96. OC: Hmm. I understand that the times have been quite hard. 97. KALLAMU: OC, that is an understatement. Not only am I in debt, I don’t
even have money now to buy more seeds or fertilizer to replace my lost crop.
98. OC: Well, I’m not here to add to your woes. I just came to see how my friend is faring in these tough times.
99. KALLAMU: (HAPPILY) OC! The one and only OC, no one like you I beg. You too much. Thank you so much. Thank you. 100. OC: (LAUGHS) No problem, my friend. So how is our Mai anguwar doing? 101. KALLAMU: (SADLY) Alhaji Maikano? He is still ill oh! I was even there
yesterday. We can only pray for his quick recovery. 102. OC: Insha Allah. But do you really think he will recover? You know, considering his age and all. 103. KALLAMU: Ha OC, you know that such matters are only in the hands of Allah. 104. OC: True, true! (PAUSE) I wonder how the people of our land are
coping without a head. Don’t underestimate the importance of a Mai anguwar oh, Kallamu.
105. KALLAMU: I know that the Mai anguwar is very important, but there is nothing we can do.
106. OC: We can start the search for a new Mai anguwar. 107. KALLAMU: How can you say a thing like that? Our Mai anguwar is not dead
and we are not praying for his death. OC, please let’s just drop this subject. It almost feels like we are praying for his death.
108. OC: No, Kallamu. The entire problems we’ve been having in this village have been because the Mai anguwar is not doing anything.
109. KALLAMU: The Mai anguwar is sick. How can he do anything when he is sick? 110. OC: My point exactly. This town needs a Mai anguwar that can
ensure that farmers get fertilizers at subsidized prices and even on credit.
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111. KALLAMU: OC, you almost sound like you are campaigning. 112. OC: Kallamu, you know that I can do all that and more. All you have
to do is suggest it to the community, recommend me and put pressure on the District head to appoint me as the new Mai anguwar.
113. KALLAMU: (LAUGHS) OC, don’t you know that the post of Mai anguwar is hereditary? You are not even in that line of birth. (LAUGHS HARDER) So how do you plan to become a Mai anguwar?
114. OC: This is not funny. Kallamu, I know how influential you are in the community. With your support, I’m sure I can be Mai anguwar,
hereditary or not. 115. KALLAMU: OC, it’s funny. So if you become Mai anguwar and Alhaji Maikano recovers, what will you do? 116. OC: Kallamu, you and I know that that can’t happen. 117. KALLAMU: (SHOCKED) This is enough. I can’t believe you just said that. 118. OC: What is this, Kallamu? Why are you acting all self‐righteous and
holy? I deserve your support. If for nothing else, because you owe me.
119. KALLAMU: What nonsense is this? Oh, because I owe you I should be blind to truth and justice? It’s time to sell my cowpeas. You know what,
come after market day and collect your money. 120. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 4 121. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 122. DORCAS: (EXCITED, COMING ON) Hindatu, good news! You won’t believe this. 123. HINDATU: Dorcas! Calm down. What is the excitement about? 124. DORCAS: You know, I told my pastor about you and your house hunt. 125. HINDATU: I didn’t know that. But what happened? 126. DORCAS: He agreed. He said there are two rooms for rent if you are interested. 127. HINDATU: Wow, that’s good. That compound is close to Zaharadeen’s school and not far from my place of work. 128. DORCAS: I knew you’d be interested. 129. HINDATU: Sure I am, Dorcas. But how much is he asking for the two rooms? 130. DORCAS: N500 monthly for each room. 131. HINDATU: That’s N1000 for both rooms monthly. That is not too bad. I’ll take it. Hey Dorcas, thanks a lot. This means a lot to me.
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132. DORCAS: I know, Hindatu. I’m just glad I can be of help. 133. HINDATU: Dorcas, come to think of it, I can afford the N1000 a month from
my monthly salary. Why don’t you let me lend you some money from my savings so you can get started on that farm of yours?
134. DORCAS: Hindatu, are you sure about that? I mean … 135. HINDATU: Dorcas, there is no problem at all. What are friends for? 136. DORCAS: Friends, enh? What about partners? 137. HINDATU: What do you mean? 138. DORCAS: Hindatu, think about it, if we are partners we can put our
resources together and even farm a much larger stretch. See, I have the farm, you have some money, we both don’t have any man to help us, we …
139. HINDATU: (CHUCKLES) Okay, I get the picture. But is that what you truly want? I mean are you sure?
140. DORCAS: I’ve never been surer about anything in my life! See, since you go to work, I will oversee everything and you can help out after
work and at weekends. Our children will help too. 141. HINDATU: Okay then, partner! (BOTH LAUGH) I get it and it makes perfect sense. 142. DORCAS: Hindatu, I’m so happy. 143. HINDATU: Dorcas, before we get all excited, we need to take a good look
at what we have. (THOUGHTFULLY) A large expense of land, open and windy, meaning it is prone to wind and sand erosion, and overtaken by weeds and thorn bushes.
144. DORCAS: Yes, weeds and thorns. My nightmare. 145. HINDATU: Of course, we have to get rid of that first. Well, good news is
that it is recovering from the overuse it’s been subjected to over the years.
146. DORCAS: So what can we plant on such a land? 147. HINDATU: I guess we can grow maize, sorghum, cowpea and soya bean – you know, anything we can sell. 148. DORCAS: Sounds good. But what of seeds and fertilizer? 149. HINDATU: We’ll have to go to the agric office to get information. 150. DORCAS: Ah, my friend, the thought of going to buy fertilizer scares me to
death! It is so expensive! Even with your money, we will never be able to afford the quantity we need for this expansive piece of land.
151. HINDATU: Dorcas! Take it easy, I read about a way we can manage a little fertilizer. 152. DORCAS: You’ve come again! So what did you read this time?
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153. HINDATU: Well, we can buy a little fertilizer and use it in very small quantities, something they call micro‐dosing.
154. DORCAS: And how will that solve our problem? 155. HINDATU: The idea is that we will use animal dung and supplement with very little quantities of fertilizer. 156. DORCAS: Okay o, I have come to rely on your judgement. Not like I have
a choice now (LAUGHS). We will use your micro‐dosing and pray hard too.
157. HINDATU: But we will still require a lot of help on the farm. 158. DORCAS: I can talk to some boys in my church. I’m sure they’ll be willing to earn some extra money. 159. HINDATU: You know what? Back home in Kakaran Jatau, when I was
growing up, farmers just allow the cattle of the Fulani to come through their land and they eat up the wild growth before planting season. It’s great because the cattle also drop manure on the land to help restore fertility.
160. DORCAS: Well, that may not happen, now that it’s raining because it’s likely they have gone back home to the far north hoping it is raining
there too. 161. HINDATU: Oh God, where are the cattle? The Fulani herdsmen should bring their cattle now that there’s enough grass. 162. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP 05 AND UNDER 163. RIBADU (NARRATOR): Well, my friends. This story is getting really interesting.
OC is becoming ambitious while Hindatu and Dorcas are planning, wise women that they are. For their dream to become reality, they need to clear their farm, buy seeds and fertilizer. How much fertilizer will they need? What should they do? This is a very important topic to farmers. Let’s listen to a song and then I’ll have with me in the studio someone who can answer all our questions.
164. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER … 165. RIBADU: Welcome back, friends. When the drum beats change we must
change our dance steps. “In Kidiya chanza …” It’s time to leave our stories for a while and get some information. We will discuss a very important topic that came out of the story. That is, the use of fertilizer. With me here is Hajia Mariam. She is from the agric centre and she is an expert on the issues of climate change and how to adapt to climate change.
166. RIBADU: Asalamu alayikum, Hajia! 167. H. MARIAM: Walaykum asalam, Mallam Ribadu. Thanks for having me.
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168. RIBADU: You are very welcome, Hajia. Over the past weeks, I’ve had many people like you come and inform us about climate change
and all related issues. 169. HAJIA: Okay. 170. RIBADU: Today however, I would like to ask you some questions that
could help farmers plant more economically. This is because a lot of money is used to purchase fertilizer and you know that times are hard and the weather has become very unpredictable.
171. HAJIA: Actually, I’ve been giving a lot of lectures on this issue at the Centre. 172. RIBADU: Really? Care to share? 173. HAJIA: Well Mallam, the first thing I’ll say is that although fertilizer are
very good, they shouldn’t be taken as an alternative to manure. 174. RIBADU: By manure, you mean animal shit? 175. HAJIA: (CHUCKLES) Yes! Animal droppings, dung, compost, sewage, etc. They can provide much needed nutrients to soil. 176. RIBADU: Okay. What about fertilizers? 177. HAJIA: Fertilizers should serve as an addition or to complement manure
in order to ensure continued soil fertility. Also, fertilizers can be used in small quantities to make them more affordable.
178. RIBADU: What do you mean by that? 179. HAJIA: I’m saying that micro or small doses of fertilizer are enough to fertilize a single plant. 180. RIBADU: Micro doses? What’s that? 181. HAJIA: Micro doses mean little quantities. In this case, the amount of
fertilizer that you can pinch between three fingers is just enough to fertilize a single plant.
182. RIBADU: Really? That little? 183. HAJIA: Yes, you can even use a bottle cover or cap to measure the
amount of fertilizer and just one cap is enough for each plant. 184. RIBADU: Wow, I hope our farmers are listening to this. You were saying something about manure. How does that fit into all this? 185. HAJIA: Okay. Where the soil is hard, farmers can dig small holes
before the rain starts, then fill them with manure. When the rains begin, they can plant the seeds in the holes and apply a small amount of chemical fertilizer.
186. RIBADU: Seems like a lot of work. 187. HAJIA: Maybe. But this method not only provides nutrients, but also helps to ensure that the plant will receive sufficient water.
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188. RIBADU: I see. Well then, maybe farmers can start using this method on a small portion of their farm. 189. HAJIA: Good idea. But trust me, when they see the result, they will extend the method to the entire farm. 190. RIBADU: Thanks so much, Hajia, for your time and for sharing. 191. HAJIA: My pleasure. 192. RIBADU: Well friends, we have come to the end of this episode of In
Kidiya Chanza … please remember to join us next time and don’t forget to tell your friends, neighbours and families about this innovative program. Until then, bye bye.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Rebecca Ojedele of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 6
Topic: How agriculture and livestock can benefit each other Cast Narrator ‐ Mallam Ribadu Kallamu Uwa Baaba Tanko Dikko Dorcas Agric Expert ‐ Mallam Yusuf 1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER … 2. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER … 3. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER ... 4. NARRATOR (RIBADU): Hello my good people and wonderful listeners, welcome to
another episode of your favourite entertaining and educative program, IN KIDIYA CHANZA … a drama series which deals with how ordinary folks like you and I cope with today’s unpredictable weather which changes like the drum beat in a wild party. As we have seen from the episodes so far, no one should learn to adapt to these unpredictable dance steps more than the farmers of crops or livestock. I hope you have been learning from their experiences so far. Well, come with me today as we meet Kallamu and friends and family.
5. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ... SCENE 1: 6. SFX: URGENT FOOTSTEPS OF UWA APPROACHING THE COMPUND,
ALMOST RUNNING WITH EXCITEMENT 7. KALLAMU: (ANXIOUSLY) Uwa, my dear wife, what excites you so much like this? 8. UWA: (STILL VERY EXCITED) Maigida Kallamu, you have not heard? 9. KALLAMU: (A BIT IMPATIENT) I cannot hear unless you tell me; I am not a mind reader. 10. UWA: (ANNOUNCING WITH AUTHORITY OF ONE WHO HAS BROUGHT
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GOOD NEWS) Oh Maigida, the cowpea merchants have come. 11. KALLAMU: (DISINTERESTEDLY) Is that so? 12. UWA: (NOT NOTICING HIS MOOD) Yes, hurry tell your son Garba to start bringing out the sacks from the granary. 13. KALLAMU: (COLD) Unhun, I see … 14. UWA: (TOO EXCITED TO BOTHER) I don’t know what’s the matter with
you. (OFF MIC CALLING ON GARBA) Garba, Garba! Start bringing out the sacks of cowpea from the granary. Allah has answered our prayer.
15. KALLAMU: (PENSIVELY) They had better came prepared to pay good money, those Shylocks who behave like the coffin seller who wants long life
for himself but prays for the death of others. 16. UWA: (RUNNING BACK EXCITEDLY AGAIN) How many bags are we going to sell? 17. KALLAMU: (OBVIOUSLY NOT SHARING HER EXCITEMENT) It is only the foolish
cow that feels happy for being taken to a beautiful slaughterhouse. 18. UWA: This is no time for proverbs; you know we need to pay our debtors. 19. KALLAMU: (SADLY) You know I don’t trust these so‐called buyers. The other
day, I heard that they pay very good money in Kano and in the South for these cowpea they come to take from us for next to nothing. I am not prepared to give out my hard earned labour for a cheap sell.
20. UWA: Maigida, I know how you feel, but think of our commitments! 21. KALLAMU: (VOICE RISING IN ANGER) Yes, new seeds to buy, fertilizer,
pesticides, not to talk of the loan from OC, all these things. But that bastard OC, we know how he made his money in this village. Who was his father but a very poor man? But today he does not pity poor people. (SOBER) My dear, no one plays the hero to his debtors. I will sell …
22. UWA: (HAPPY AGAIN) But the cows, you did not list that. 23. KALLAMU: (CHANGING MOOD) That can wait till harvest. We need to attend to more important things first. 24. UWA: But that is important too, you know how it saved … 25. KALLAMU: Okay, I will think about it. 26. UWA: No, you must promise me now. 27. KALLAMU: Okay, I promise. 28. UWA: I don’t want a non‐committal promise. 29. SFX: (COMMOTION OFF MIC AND WE HEAR NOISES FROM THE
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FROM THE DIRECTION OF THE GRANARY, and UWA DASHES TO CHECK)
30. KALLAMU: What is going on? 31. UWA: (OFF MIC, CRYING) God have mercy on us all. 32. UWA: (BACK ON MIC WAILING) 33. KALLAMU: (GETTING EXASPERATED) For God’s sake come out with it, we are not here for crying competition. What is going on? 34. UWA: (CRYING) Allah, why, oh why, what have we done? 35. KALLAMU: (NOW WORRIED AND BEGGING) Please my dear, in the name of Allah, tell me what is going on. You know I don’t like suspense. 36. UWA: (IN SHAKY VOICE) You can go and check for yourself. All the grain
we have been calculating on has been completely destroyed by weevils.
37. KALLAMU: If it’s a joke, stop it – you know that is my only hope … 38. UWA: (STILL CRYING) I say go and see for yourself. How can I joke over such a serious issue? 39. KALLAMU: (DASHING OUT BY OPENING AND BANGING THE DOOR FAST. HE CRIES OUT OFF MIC) How am I going to pay all my debt this year? 40. KALLAMU: (COMING ON MIC, VERY UPSET) Oh, oh, I’m ruined, who did this to me? How am I going to pay all my debts? … 41. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO … SCENE 2 42. SFX: LATE EVENING SOUNDS OF DOMESTIC ANIMALS GOING TO
ROOST, WOMEN POUNDING TO COOK EVENING MEALS. TANKO RETURNS AND THROWS DOWN A FEW PIECES OF FIREWOOD HE HAS BROUGHT BACK.
43. TANKO: (TALKING TIREDLY) Good day, Inna Baaba. What is the matter? I have been here for some time and you did not even tell me
welcome. Are we quarreling? 44. BAABA: (GETTING IRRITATED) I did not notice you then. I hope that will not prevent you from going into your room. 45. TANKO: (SURPRISED) I thought I deserved a welcome after a hard day’s
work. But to get this treatment after I initiate the greeting is baffling.
46. BAABA: (ANGRY) I don’t award medals for non‐performance. Tell me in the name of Allah what is going on? You claimed to have gone to
Kawaorana to inform Hindatu physically apart from phone calls about her Father’s ill health. Why is she not here up till now?
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47. TANKO: (DISAPPOINTED BUT CALM) Haba, Inna Baaba, but I did my best to convince her and tell her about Alhaji’s state of health. I am as
surprised as you are that she has not found time to come down. 48. BAABA: (INSISTENT) You did not do enough. In fact, I am not sure you told
her how serious Alhaji Maikano’s condition is, not my Hindatu. By now there would have at least been a phone call through Ngozi and Kallamu.
49. TANKO: (NOW ANGRY) I see. So I am the only one never to be trusted. I can never do anything right in this house in spite of all my efforts. Is it
my fault if Hindatu feels there are other more important things than Alhaji’s health?
50. BAABA: (TAKEN ABACK BUT ALSO ANGRY) You may have been doing things right, but I am not sure you got this one right; I am not convinced at
all. 51. TANKO: (NOW REALLY AGITATED) I am not surprised at all. Is it not said the
wild cat can never be like the real cat? Now everything is coming home, I know I can never be really accepted in this house. Just because I am different, no matter how hard I try in this house everybody blames me when things go wrong. This in spite of all I have done to take care of things in this house since Alhaji took ill.
52. BAABA: (SHOCKED BUT RECOVERS QUICKLY) What is the meaning of all this? So it’s this small talk about Hindatu not coming home that
warrants you telling me of your life history? Well, for your information, if I don’t see Hindatu by this weekend, I will go to Kawaorana myself.
53. TANKO: (SUBDUED) Hajiya Baaba, you just like to trouble yourself. Old women like you won’t sit at home quietly. Hmn, if something
happens to you on the road, let nobody blame me – oo. 54. BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 55. SFX: SOUNDS OF COWS GRAZING AND MOOING, MIXED WITH THE HERDSMAN SHOUTING TO CONTROL THE COWS 56. DORCAS: (ALARMED) La la la, what am I seeing? Who is the madman that
let these cows loose into people’s means of livelihood? (SHOUTS) Oh, so it’s you, Dikko, why are you this wicked?
57. DIKKO: (TRIES TO QUIETEN HER) Sssh, stop shouting. Do you want to attract everybody? 58. DORCAS: (SHOUTS HARDER) I will shout more. Hey, everybody come and see
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ooo. This shameless and heartless Dikko has destroyed peoples’ farms again‐o.
59. DIKKO: (SCARED) Look here, can you see this? What does it look like? 60. DORCAS: (WITH CONTEMPT) Bow and arrow, but what does that mean? Are you threatening me? 61. DIKKO: Call it whatever. I will shoot you, and let me tell you they are very poisonous. 62. DORCAS: (DETERMINED) Go ahead, shameless man. 63. DIKKO: (MOVES QUICKLY TO COVER HER MOUTH) Stop, stubborn woman. 64. DORCAS: (CHOKING) Leave me alone. Instead of driving off your cattle to
stop the damage, you are covering my mouth. Everybody come and see. Wicked and heartless man. I am not sure you have a conscience. To ruin the whole investment of people like this by herding your cattle to peoples’ farms ...
65. DIKKO: (DEFIANT) Those farmers should know better than to plant their crops along my cattle routes. 66. DORCAS: The environment belongs to all of us. Animals should not survive at the expense of people’s crops and vice versa. 67. DIKKO: Say whatever you like. Nothing can happen to me in this community. Don’t you know I am the son of Wada the great? 68. DORCAS: Stop celebrating irresponsibility. Don’t you know a child who is not well taught at home will be taught by outsiders? 69. DIKKO: Are you trying to insult me? 70. DORCAS: Just wait until people come. 71. SFX: NOISE OF PEOPLE APPROACHING. THEY HOLD HIM, GRAB HIM, DON’T LET HIM RUN, ETC. 72. VOICE1: Calm down, let’s listen to him. 73. VOICE 2: Thank you so much for your bravery. If not for you, the man would
have run away. That is how people like him behave. You will just come to your farm the following day and see your farm empty.
74. DIKKO: (PLEADING) Don Allah, pity me. Actually, many of us graze through here, not only my herds. 75. VOICE 1: Did you hear that? The man is trying to justify the terrible thing he did. 76. DORCAS: Don’t mind him. Not all herdsmen behave like him. Others are not
reprehensible and heartless like him. They have been driving their cattle past here for the past three weeks since the rains started.
77. VOICE 2: Let’s take him and his cattle to the police station and see whether his father will come and save him.
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78. DORCAS: Well, Dikko son of Wada, next time you plan to graze your cattle in other people’s fields, remember this small woman called Dorcas
will not let you go free. Wicked man. 79. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADE TO SCENE 4 80. SFX: VOICES OF PEOPLE IN KALLAMU’S COMPOUND. SOME ARE
GREETING “SAANU,” OTHERS MAKE EXCLAMATIONS OF PITY “AIYAAA.” GENERAL CROWD NOISE IN THE BACKGROUND.
81. TANKO: (MEASURED TONE OF PITY) Mallam Kallamu, take heart. How many bags were affected – I mean how bad was the destruction by the
weevils? 82. KALLAMU: Mallam Tanko, they said the Imam got burnt from a terrible fire,
and you are asking what about his beard. Everything got destroyed; not a single bag was left. In recent times, this is the best harvest I have had. I just thought of holding on till the next planting season when cowpeas will be scarce so that I can sell them at a higher price. But see what happened to me.
83. TANKO: (PITYING KALLAMU) Allahu Akbar. You know, then a bag was barely 2,000 naira, but it’s now 8,000 naira per bag – a heavy loss,
walahi. You did the right thing by hanging on, if not for this tragedy. 84. KALLAMU: Mallam Tanko, are you telling me? I had calculated my profit and everything I would accomplish with the sales. 85. TANKO: Why did you not use the chemicals that others are using to preserve them? 86. KALLAMU: Aaa aaa, Mallam Tanko, I did not have this knowledge of chemical
sellers apart from the ones sold in Emeka’s shop, you know OC’s In‐law, but you know the young cobra carries poison too.
87. TANKO: (CONFUSED) Meaning? 88. KALLAMU: Meaning I don’t trust those people. People like Emeka and OC are very greedy so I expect nothing good from them. 89. TANKO: Haba, Kallamu, chemicals are chemicals everywhere, whether from Emeka’s or any other shop. 90. KALLAMU: I don’t agree with you at all – with the way those people like money.
I have heard of so many people poisoned by chemicals and it must have come from sources you can’t trust.
91. TANKO: To me, chemical is chemical, it doesn’t matter from whose shop. And besides, isn’t it meant to preserve something for sale? If it’s
poisoned, that is the headache of the consumer.
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92. KALLAMU: (SHOCKED) Haba, don’t talk like that, Tanko. I don’t expect this from you. It could be your own family, and God will judge us for our
action. 93. TANKO: Well, I am only talking of what would have saved this colossal loss. I am confused myself how to feed our whole family in this bad time. 94. KALLAMU: (RESIGNED) I still can’t believe it. Every single bag is infested by
weevils. Twenty bags of hard work and hope dashed. I wonder why I am still alive to see this.
95. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP 05 AND UNDER 96. RIBADU (NARRATOR): Friends, I hope you enjoyed meeting Kallamu and Uwa, the
couple who are now united in grief in view of the weevil calamity that has befallen the grains of Kallamu. What about Baaba and Tanko’s boldfaced lie that he has summoned Hindatu over her father’s serious illness? It is going to be interesting to find out, so you must keep listening to this program because there’ll be more. In this episode, topics that stand out are conflicts between farmers and herdsmen and the danger of not storing our grains properly! As farmers, these are important topics because our livelihoods depend on the crops we grow as well as the well‐being of our animals.
Let’s listen to one of my favourite pieces of music and return to ask Mallam Yusuf, who will help us answer some questions concerning the topic all farmers are concerned about.
97. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER ... 98. RIBADU: Good friends, when the drum beat changes, the dance steps also
also change “In Kidiya chanza.” Let’s leave our stories for now and try to get more information. While it is true that the main issue is proper storage of produce, we need to discuss issues of improving manure quality and its timely application in the field, the advantages of growing cover crops, and other issues. Because we must have good harvests before even thinking of storing for selling at higher prices at later dates. So what are the alternative strategies for improving soil fertility? Sannu, Mallam Yusuf.
99. DR YUSUF: Sannu, Mallam Ribadu, I hope you are doing fine? 100. RIBADU: Yes. But the same cannot be said of my good friend Kallamu, who is
right now nursing the wound that weevils have inflicted on him. But I will feel better if I can understand the weather better. When trees fall on trees, the topmost must be removed first. What do I tell listeners like Mallam Kallamu?
101. DR YUSUF: I am so sorry about your friend Kallamu and anybody in his shoes
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right now. But I am aware that there are other non‐harmful ways of preserving cowpea without the use of chemicals. Even our forefathers used to store grains for ages without weevil attack. But honestly speaking, I don’t have enough information on these storage methods. I will ask friends and get back to you.
100. RIBADU: Ayooo, so there are things that even you don’t know, Doctor? 102. DR YUSUF: Haba, Mallam Ribadu my friend. Agriculture is a very wide field and no one can know everything. 103. RIBADU: Shikena, ba komai, (That’s alright then, no problem) but I won’t let
you go. Like I was telling my listeners before you came on, if the yield is poor, we cannot even talk of storage. After all, a man who is hungry cannot remember to save because he thinks only of immediate survival. Many farmers are facing the problem of very poor and infertile soil on their land. How can we improve our soil fertility?
104. DR YUSUF: There so many ways. But let me just list the simple ones: the use of compost, crop residues, animal manure, chipped wood, hedgerow
intercropping (alley farming), and cover crops — such as legumes. 105. RIBADU: Just to talk about cover crops for a moment, they are a hard sell to
farmers around here, to ask them to forego cash crops for cover crops.
106. DR YUSUF: In the long run, it is better for them. In fact, when farmers grow cover crops, it is not for fertility alone. Several farmers in our part of
the world are now growing mucuna2 – a fast‐growing plant that densely covers fallow fields, partly because it suppresses the tenacious weed, spear grass.
107. RIBADU: Ehn, please tell me more. 108. DR YUSUF: Yes, farmers can feel encouraged since the cover crops are grown
on land that has few opportunity costs. I mean that they won’t lose money by growing cover crops. They can grow cover crops by intercropping them with food or cash crops, on land left fallow, on land under tree crops, or during periods of expected drought or flooding. Cover crops require very little additional labour – or they can save labour by controlling weeds. Seed is readily available at no out‐of‐pocket cost to the farmer, and their seeds, leaves, and vines provide benefits over and above the improvements to soil fertility.
109. RIBADU: Sounds like good music to my ears. So these cover crops not
2Mucuna is known as “waken shanu” in Hausa
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only improve soil fertility but can even help control weeds and create food for our animals. What about my friends the smallholder farmers? How can they benefit given their relatively small scale of farming?
110. DR YUSUF: Improving manure quality and using it more efficiently depends on farmers' good management of manure in storage and when they
apply it in the field. If they use bedding straw, this will cut down on losses of nitrogen from urine and manure. This should be considered when livestock are fed on crop residues, and when cut‐and carry feeding is practiced. Also, it’s a good idea to feed concentrates to stable livestock on a concrete rather than a soil floor. This will increase the nitrogen, phosphorus and organic carbon contents of manure. Shading also increases the organic carbon content of manure. Urine is an important source of nitrogen and potassium. So small‐holder farmers should collect and use it to improve soil fertility.
111. RIBADU: I am tempted to continue, but we have to end this interesting conversation for today. But before we go, don’t forget that you
promised to find out something about Mallam Kallamu’s problem with weevils. Do you promise to be back?
112. DR YUSUF: Insha Allah. It is always my pleasure. I hope listeners found our conversation today useful in their attempt to cope with the vagaries
of the weather and climate change 113. RIBADU: Thank you very much Yusuf. See what all my grey hair and all
the years of trekking around cannot give me; this young man has learned. I will be here next time to continue with the stories and also sources for more information on how to adapt to the changes we are experiencing now as a result of climate change. Meanwhile, if you need more information about today’s topic, call or text your message to …….. Call your friends and neighbours to join us next time on In Kidiya Chanza ... Bye bye.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Professor Samuel Kafewo of Drama and Development Communication at the Ahmadu Bello University, Samaru, Zaria. This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 7 Topic: How integrating crops and livestock can help farmers Cast Ribadu (Narrator) Bulus Dorcas OC Dijie Baaba Ngozi Hajiya Mariam (Agric Expert) 1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER… ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER ... 2. NARRATOR (RIBADU): Welcome friends to today’s segment of IN KIDIYA CHANZA
… a drama program about people just like us, men and women dealing with change in a positive way. My name is Ribadu and I’m a Fulani herdsman like my father before me. Nowadays I stay put in my village, practice some farming and tell stories of the interesting people I met during our annual dry season migrations towards the south. Talking about change … who amongst us has not been experiencing the unpredictability of the weather, the variability of rainfall, sometimes arriving early or very late, sometimes too much all at once and oftentimes not enough and stopping abruptly? The people about whom I speak are just like us, experiencing what is called climate change. I invite you to pay attention and listen to how they handle the bad effects of this change … Listen, there seems to be trouble in OC’s house …
3. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ... SCENE 1: 4. SFX: POT COVER OPENED AND DROPPED BACK, BLOWING ON FIRE. ON MIC 5. DIJIE: (COUGHS, SNEEZES, MUTTERS IN FRUSTRATION) What kind of
trouble is this lack of firewood going to put me into, because of God?
6. OC: (VOICE RISING AS HE CALLS OUT OFF MIC.) Dijie, Dijie, may I know how much longer we must wait to eat in this house today? 7. DIJIE: (BETWEEN FITS OF COUGHING) I am trying my best, OC, it’s just this
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fire … 8. OC: (BURSTING TOWARDS THE KITCHEN) There’s always an excuse … I
am tired of being served excuses as breakfast and lunch. At this rate, we’ll end up eating excuses for supper too. Why is it only on the days that it’s your turn to cook?
9. DIJIE: (STILL COUGHING ON MIC) That is what I am trying to explain … 10. OC: (STILL ANGRY, BEGINNING TO COUGH ALSO) I am not asking for
explanation, I am asking for food. (COUGHING) As if starving me is not bad enough, (COUGHING HARD NOW) God in Heaven, why is there so much smoke?
11. DIJIE: (APOLOGETIC) I am sorry, it’s this firewood problem; you know I have to gather … 12. OC: (IMPATIENT) Spare me the sermon; you know very well that I’m on
medication. I need to eat before taking my drugs, and you must be doing this deliberately so that I don’t recover, wicked woman.
13. DIJIE: (PROTESTING) Haba, Mai gida. 14. OC: (CUTTING IN) Don’t haba me, before I lose my temper. 15. DIJIE: (STILL PROTESTING AND COUGHING) I am sorry that food is not ready, but that is still not enough reason to call me names. 16. OC: (VERY ANGRY) Woman, don’t try my patience. Ah‐ah! Anytime it’s
your turn, the whole house will fast by force. And look at the mess of a kitchen. Smoke everywhere. Incompetent idiot!
17. DIJIE: (DOWNCAST) Why must you talk like this? You can see how I am trying by using paper, cow dung, bits and pieces of plastics just to
meet up. 18. OC: (COUGHING LOUDER) Exactly what I am talking about. No decent
woman knowing her husband is ill and on medication would delay his food, and worse still gather pieces of rubbish to fumigate the entire compound as if I am a rat that you want to smoke out of its hole.
19. DIJIE: (BLOWING HER NOSE) You can see I am not enjoying this myself. Do you know how difficult it is to go miles into empty fields after fields to look for firewood in this our place? I am having running nose and catarrh all because of blowing this fire that refuses to burn well.
20. OC: (IRRITATED) Your eyeballs can come out of their sockets for all I care; your nose may even drown the town. Mts! (KISSING HIS
TEETH), I know they have not stopped selling firewood in this town. 21. DIJIE: (CURIOUS) Sell firewood did you say? 22. OC: You heard me, and who are you interviewing?
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23. DIJIE: (SARCASTICALLY) I was just wondering if I heard you right, knowing how much you gave me for food and meat, not to talk of
firewood or kerosene. 24. OC: (GETTING WORKED UP) Go and hire a megaphone so that you can
broadcast to the whole town how much I gave you. Better still, you can go to the radio house and place an advertisement.
25. DIJIE: (WARMING UP TO FIGHT) It is very easy to talk and shout at me here. In other households, the men provide the firewood and adequate money for the family upkeep. You barely drop enough money for anything here, Mr. Commander‐in‐chief.
26. OC: (A BIT SHOCKED) Was that addressed to me? 27. DIJIE: (BOLDLY) I guess we are only two here; who else could I be talking to? 28. OC: (SUBDUED) You are suffering from Acute Dependency Syndrome or ADS, you hear me? 29. DIJIE: (IN HER ELEMENT) Go ahead and invent new medical terminologies.
All I am asking you is to be a man in words and deed. Don’t just exercise your authority by coming to shout at me every day when you have not done your own bit. We are not in the army here.
30. OC: (SAME TONE) You don’t know what you are talking about. As a woman, God has given you brain, hands and legs. What more do
you need to provide food for your family? 31. DIJIE: (CALMING DOWN) All I know is that I am trying my best, but the
only reward I get is complaint and abuse from you, no single word of encouragement ever.
32. OC: (ALMOST TO HIMSELF) I should have known that you do not cure a madman by dressing him up for an occasion; his speech will still
prove him mad. 33. DIJIE: (CONFUSED) Meaning? 34. OC: (IMPERIOUSLY) It is too late in the day to fatten the cow on the market day. Look at your co‐wife Ngozi! 35. DIJIE: (INTERRUPTS, INDIGNANT) I am not Ngozi. Stop comparing me with anybody. 36. OC: (CARELESSLY) I know– the lazy pupil does not like to be compared
with the brilliant one. Ngozi solves all problems before I even get to know of them. No problem. But you should know that the nail that sticks out is the one that brings the hammer down. Apart from Ngozi, you need to be jolted; Altine will do it.
37. DIJIE: (STARTLED): Altine? Which one is Altine again?
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38. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2 39. SFX: A BUSY TAILOR’S SHOP AMBIENCE, SEWING MACHINES RUNNING 40. BAABA: (CLAPPING TO DRAW HER ATTENTION) Madam Ngozi! A‐ah! Am I
invisible these days? I’ve been standing here so long my old legs are ready to give up.
41. NGOZI: (STARTLED) Hajiya Baaba! You don’t mean it. How come I didn’t notice you? 42. BAABA: (LAUGHING): Ask your machines. 43. NGOZI: (ALSO LAUGHING BUT PROTESTING LAMELY) Aaah Baaba, I am
sorry, don’t mind me; you know I have to meet up with my difficult customers’ deadlines.
44. BAABA: (JOKINGLY) Yes, well‐paying difficult customers. 45. NGOZI: (CUTTING IN LAUGHING): Yes well ... Baaba, it’s been long … this one that you came out today. Good news, God willing? 46. BAABA: I’m coming from Zorro’s mill. I went to beg for price reduction on
dusa for the animals (Editor’s note: grain chaff/residue after grinding and sieving used for feeding livestock). The price keeps going up. Soon poor folks like us won’t be able to afford to keep animals anymore because we can’t feed them.
44. NGOZI: Yes‐o, Baaba. You are quite correct. Dusa is a very expensive thing nowadays. Most times it is not available even. What to do if you
breed animals like us? (SIGHS) Still, Zorro’s place is on the other side of this area, not on your way here at all …
45. BAABA: Indeed. You are perceptive. I actually came to find out if you had received any message or calls from Hindatu through the call centre.
46. NGOZI: (DISTRAUGHT) Oh no, my sister, sorry about Alhaji Maikano’s ill health and I am sorry for not coming to check all this while.
47. BAABA: I know you have been busy in your shop, but just tell me you have gotten a message for me from Hindatu. 48. NGOZI: Unfortunately no message yet. But how is the Mai Ungwar, Alhaji Maikano’s, health now? 49. BAABA: (DOWNCAST) I don’t know whether to say the same or worse. 50. NGOZI: (SYMPATHETIC) You don’t mean it. 51. BAABA: That is it, my sister. In spite of the prescriptions of the herbalist.
The only thing that man has not asked us to bring is a human being. 52. NGOZI: Are you telling me? Those people, Mts (KISSING TEETH), they can prescribe impossible things at times
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53. BAABA: (SADLY) That is not even my problem. If the prescriptions work, one will go to any length. But in the case of this Alhaji’s ill health,
nothing seems to be working. 54. NGOZI: I am sorry for all the troubles; I hope he gets better soon. 55. BAABA: I wish could say amen to that prayer. Or is it a wish? To tell you the
truth my sister, I am losing hope by the day. Something tells me Alhaji may not survive.
56. NGOZI: (COLD) That bad? 57. BAABA: You know you cannot abandon someone who is still breathing. If not, we would have given up on Alhaji Maikano since. 58. NGOZI: We must never give up. 59. BAABA: I guess not, but that is not even my greatest problem. Imagine all
the efforts made to inform Hindatu since the day Alhaji collapsed on the farm and was brought home by Tanko and some neighbours.
60. NGOZI: I know, but are we sure she got the messages? 61. BAABA: (ANGRY) Don’t tell me that! I personally gave Tanko money to go to
Kaworana, and she personally promised to come down immediately.
62. NGOZI: Don’t get me wrong. I am simply saying we do not know the conditions under which she received those messages. 63. BAABA: I am not trying to blame anybody, but she gave the impression
after Tanko’s visit that she was on the way, and now how many phone calls after that?
64. NGOZI: Something must be wrong; I am baffled myself. Everybody in Kankaran Jatau knows how close Hindatu is to her father Alhaji
Maikano. She couldn’t abandon him like this without any reason. 65. BAABA: I am as shocked as anyone else. If anybody would have told me
Hindatu would behave like this towards her father, I would have said no.
66. NGOZI: Until we see her and hear from her ... 67. BAABA: (CUTS IN) I hope we will see her before her poor father gives up.
What pains me the most is that the old man calls no other name but Hindatu even in his present condition.
68. NGOZI: Truly? (SYMPATHETIC) Hindatu is Alhaji’s favourite child. 69. BAABA: The apple of his eye. That favourite child has now abandoned the father. What a shame. 70. NGOZI: I am sure it’s her job as a teacher. Don’t also forget that as a mother and a new wife … all these responsibilities will weigh her down. 71. BAABA: While all that is true, I refuse to believe that she cannot even call.
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She had all these responsibilities before but was calling regularly and sending messages through you or your brother, Emeka the chemist shopkeeper.
72. NGOZI: How are we even sure Tanko got to her in town and actually told her how serious Alhaji’s condition is? You know I don’t trust Tanko
at all. 73. BAABA: To be honest with you, I don’t know what is what anymore … But everything is in God’s hands. Hindatu of all people has surprised me. 74. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 75. SFX (CUTLASSES, HOES CLANGING IN A BASIN JUST AS WE HEAR HURRIED FOOTSTEPS) 76. BULUS: (SLOWLY) Anybody home, anybody home? 77. SFX: (MORE HURRIED FOOTSTEPS, DOOR OPENING AND CLOSING) 78. BULUS: (A BIT IMPATIENTLY) Am I not talking to you, Dorcas? Since when did we start keeping malice in this house? 79. DORCAS: (INDIFFERENTLY) As you can see, I am in a hurry ... 80. BULUS: (CUTS IN) In a hurry not to welcome your own husband? Wonders shall never cease. 81. DORCAS: (CASUALLY) It works both ways, you know. 82. BULUS: What do you mean? 83. DORCAS: If you meet somebody at home who refuses or rather is too busy to
say welcome, you can say good day to that person. Or is there a law that says it’s the person at home that must greet first?
84. BULUS: I will ignore this blatant display of rudeness and disrespect to constituted authority this morning. If I may ask, where are you in
such a hurry to go so that greeting me is not a priority? 85. DORCAS: (IMPATIENTLY) Even the blind can hear the sound of cutlasses and
hoes that I am gathering inside the basin – where else do they use such things, in the market?
86. BULUS: (TRYING TO CONTROL HIS ANGER) I hope you are not thinking I am stupid also. 87. DORCAS: (MOCKING): I don’t need to think if you are stupid. You saw me preparing for the farm and you are asking me where I am going. 88. BULUS: I am surprised at the way you are behaving these days. Why did you go to report me to my mother? 89. DORCAS: Who should I report you to, police? I need to let your mother know
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in case anything happens. You know they say when the pot cooks for five hours nobody hears, but if the mortar should pound for five minutes the whole neighbourhood will know.
90. BULUS: So that is why you want to turn my own mother against me. You will not succeed. 91. DORCAS: Ohoo dei, I am clearing myself every step of the way. Please let me
be on the way; the people going to help me today will be on their way. That is, if they are not there already. If I get to Gebu cattle market in time, I might be able to collect manure for the farm, if I offer to clean up the place before others get there.
92. BULUS: By the way, which farm are we talking about? Who gave you permission to plant any stupid crop on my plots? 93. DORCAS: (MOCKINGLY) That is true. Poor me, I never took any permission. 94. BULUS: And I need not remind you that you did not come from your father’s house with any plot of land. 95. DORCAS: (ENJOYING HERSELF) You are very correct again. But where and how would I have sought this permission? 96. BULUS: (ENJOYING SOME SELF IMPORTANCE) From me of course – who else? Or have I ceased to be the head of this house? 97. DORCAS: My dear, I recognize the head that I see. Since you did not leave any
forwarding address when you disappeared, there was no way I could have traced you for this mighty and important permission, Mr. Absentee head.
98. BULUS: (ANGRY) All I know is that every land there belongs to me and I will burn down any stupid crops planted without my permission growing
on my land the day I get to that farm. 99. DORCAS: (LAUGHING AND ENJOYING HERSELF) My God is faithful and I thank Him for giving me my own land now. 100. BULUS: Your own land … When and how? 101. DORCAS: I don’t know, but maybe you should ask God, the ever merciful one.
God of justice, who saw the terrible pain and injustice that you have meted out on me, your wife. God does not blink, never mind sleep.
102. BULUS: I know nothing about God’s siesta timetable, but all I want is that you should stop spreading rumours of my absence from home.
Everybody in the village knows when I so much as step out of this house. Am I the only married man in this village?
103. DORCAS: If that is what is annoying you, you can go back to where you are coming from. After all, nobody is missing you. 104. BULUS: No one is missing me indeed; and you are busy campaigning all
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over the place about how I have abandoned the house. But is it my fault? If you were like other women who give birth to strong male children, why would I leave the house?
105. DORCAS: (SHOCKED) Don’t be an ingrate. There are couples looking to children of any sex. 106. BULUS: All you know how to do is give birth to useless daughters
whose only role in life, (GETTING HEATED UP) the only thing they are good at is asking for money to buy new dresses or body lotion and powder and make‐up. See now I’m forced to go out and find a strong woman who will bear me a boy.
107. DORCAS: (OUTRAGED) May God forgive you. I beg you in the name of God, don’t let your daughters hear you talk about them like that, you
ingrate! 108. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADE TO SCENE 4 109. DIJIE: (URGENT KNOCK ON THE DOOR, OFF MIC) Ngozi, it’s me, please open the door. 110. NGOZI: (OPENING DOOR AND IN UNHAPPY TONE SLIGHTLY OFF MIC) He is not here. 111. DIJIE: (CONFUSED, OFF MIC) Who? 112. NGOZI: (STILL UNHAPPY, SLIGHTLY OFF MIC) Who else will make you run
here like a dog on heat like this? OC is not here. (CLOSING DOOR AGAIN)
113. DIJIE: (REALIZING AND LAUGHING OFF MIC) Oho, I see. Please open the door; it’s not OC am looking for. I have something urgent to tell you, please.
114. NGOZI: (SURPRISED) Something urgent and important? (OPENING THE DOOR) I know you don’t believe me, please come inside, check everywhere, even under the bed so that you know I have not poached your husband on your “tuwo days” (Editor’s note: the turn of a wife in a polygamous household to have her husband’s undivided attention).
115. DIJIE: (COMING ON MIC AND LAUGHING) I have told you I did not come for that. Anyway, you know me, I don’t mind if OC comes into your
room any time, whether or not it’s my turn or yours. After all, he is our husband.
116. NGOZI: (UNCONVINCED, ON MIC) Indeed? I hear you, that is Dijie for you. Still I won’t do it. I won’t invite trouble on myself in my old age.
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117. DIJIE: (JOKINGLY, ON MIC) Come on NG you are not old; see how your skin is shining 118. NGOZI: (CUTS IN) Ok, I agree; I am just sixteen years. But what brought you here – go straight to the point. 119. DIJIE: The issue is I suspect that there is trouble coming to this house in the guise of Altine. 120. NGOZI: (GETTING IMPATIENT) Look, I have told you I don’t have time for
stories. Stop speaking in parables and go straight to the point. What is the trouble coming in the name of Altine?
121. DIJIE: (IN CONSPIRATORIAL TONE) I suspect our husband wants to marry Altine because of what he told me today. 122. NGOZI: (UNCONCERNED) Uhnn, is that so? What exactly did he say to you? 123. DIJIE: (WARMING UP) You know men, when they start comparing you
with another woman in a negative way. And have you noticed how she’s always around in the name of politics?
124. NGOZI: (VERY COLD) I see. 125. DIJIE: (SURPRISED) Is that all you will say? I mean, has the man said anything or even insinuated anything about marrying a third wife? 126. NGOZI: What more do you expect me to say? Besides, the man is still alive;
why don’t you go and ask him? Why are you bringing this to me? 127. DIJIE: (UPSET) You mean you will just sit down and fold your arms while this man brings another woman in here? 128. NGOZI: (SARCASTICALLY) No, I will spread my arms, shout to the whole
world to stop him as I did when he married you, right? What can one do to a man determined to marry another wife?
129. DIJIE: (DISAPPOINTED BUT DETERMINED) If you will not do anything, me, I can’t stand it; I will resist it with the last drop of my energy.
130. NGOZI: (AMUSED) Good luck. See me see trouble‐o … Did I stop him when he married you? Why should I stop him now if he wants to marry
Altine? 131. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP 05 AND UNDER 132. RIBADU (NARRATOR): Well, my dear listeners and friends, I hope you have
enjoyed meeting our two families. Let us continue listening as events unfold concerning OC’s plans to add Altine to Ngozi and Dijie. Notice the courage of Dorcas as she copes with the antics of her husband Bulus. Talk about unreasonable behavior! (CLEARS THROAT) We shall look at the issue of intercropping and integrated livestock farming with our agric expert, who by the way is a female
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today. Isn’t that remarkable and befitting? After all, it’s Dorcas that is leading the way to the farm and not Bulus. But first let me invite one of my favourite local artistes just as we prepare to receive Hajia Mariam, our agricultural expert for today.
133. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER ... 134. RIBADU: Friends, as we have learnt to say in this program, you cannot
survive with only one dance step in your life, so “In Kidiya chanza, sai rawa ma ta canza” (When the drum beats change, the dancer must also change his dance steps). Let us leave our stories for a moment and discuss the pressing issue of land degradation. Let’s talk about how integrating cropping and livestock practices can increase soil fertility. We’ll hear about the types of crops that will produce more fodder to encourage integration of food crops and livestock, and the benefits of integrating crops and livestock for all farmers, male or female. You won’t believe that in my usual style of roaming the world, I ran into this woman, a very senior researcher, a doctor in one of our agricultural research institutes who has spent much of her time working on this topic. Once again, join me in welcoming Hajia Dr. Mariam. Barka da zuwa (Welcome), Hajia.
135. H. MARIAM: Inna hini (How are you doing?), Mallam Ribadu. 136. RIBADU: We thank the Almighty Allah, Hajia, but we could be better,
especially if we could find solutions to our degraded land. Hajia Doctor, it is terrible to see land that was once fertile with crops growing well, natural pastures with plenty of grass for the cattle and livestock become so dry, sandy, and lifeless. I’ve heard you tell farmers that this is due to climate change and poor use of the land and water resources. You also said all hope is not lost. Perhaps you can inform listeners of this program on what to do.
137. H. MARIAM: I will try my best, just ask me any question. 138. RIBADU: My first question: What can farmers and livestock farmers do in the
face of degraded land as a result of climate change and the unsustainable use of resources? You heard in the drama that Dorcas is looking for ways to get manure to fertilize her land and Baaba and Ngozi are worrying about the cost of providing feed for their livestock. These are common concerns for everyone farming these days.
139. H. MARIAM: Thank you. Farmers and breeders should consider ways of using using cereal crop residues as animal feed. Also, legume crop
residues, such as groundnut haulms, cowpea vines, and cowpea
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husks, are high in protein. They are generally used as supplements to the grazing of natural pastures and cereal crop residues. Another important crop residue in the dry savannas of Nigeria is rice, which is grown extensively in the irrigated areas of the Hadejia–Jumare River Basin. Rice straw from settled farmers is often consumed by cattle of the Fulani, who negotiate for the privilege.
140. RIBADU: You don’t mean the farmer can benefit from harvesting his crop and selling waste straw to the Fulani herders? 141. H. MARIAM: Exactly. The integration of crops and livestock in this way helps
farmers to improve the fertility of their soil with the use of manure. Farmers who integrate crops and livestock have better crop yields and hence better income than farmers who don’t integrate animals into their cropping practices. They have more food for their families, and a marketable surplus to generate income for family non‐food needs.
142. RIBADU: Tell me more. 143. H. MARIAM: As I was saying, there are two ways of integrating crop and
livestock production. Sometimes, a farmer will grow crops and raise livestock on his or her own land. At other times, a farmer raises crops and co‐operates with a herder to get manure for crop production, as well as draught force and milk.
144. RIBADU: For the farmer who practices it on his own farm, he will not only get more milk, but like some of my people up north here who
are traditionally Muslims and usually require animals like sheep and goats for Muslim festivals twice a year, he can increase his domestic livestock.
145. H. MARIAM: I think you are also an expert, Mallam Ribadu. As you have seen, as farmers integrate crop and livestock production systems and use
crop residues to feed livestock, they tend to have more sheep and goats relative to the number of cattle. These animals thrive on crop residues.
146. RIBADU: Thank you so much, Hajia. That means I will encourage farmers and herdsmen to continue to listen to these radio programs for more information on how to adapt to climate change. They should ensure to tell their family members and friends to also listen up.
147. H. MARIAM: You are welcome. Please continue to encourage them. 148. RIBADU: Thank you, Hajia Mariam. Friends, goodbye until next time when I
come your way again to continue with the stories and information. Meanwhile, if you need more information about today’s topic, call
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or text your message to …….. Call your friends and neighbours to join us next time on In Kidiya Chanza…. bye bye.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Professor Samuel Kafewo of Drama and Development Communication at the Ahmadu Bello University, Samaru, Zaria. This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 8 Topic: Ensuring your cattle have food all year round Cast Ribadu Sambo Policeman Dorcas Hindatu Dikko Turaki Extension Worker 1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER… ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER ... 2. NARRATOR (RIBADU): Welcome friends to today’s segment of In Kidiya Chanza … a
drama program about people just like us, men and women dealing with change in a positive way. My name is Ribadu and I’m a Fulani herdsman like my father before me. Nowadays I stay put in my village, practice some farming and tell stories of the interesting people I met during our annual dry season migrations towards the south. Talking about change … who amongst us has not been experiencing the unpredictability of the weather, the variability of rainfall, sometimes arriving early or very late, sometimes too much all at once and oftentimes not enough and stopping abruptly? The people about whom I speak are just like us, experiencing what is called climate change. I invite you to pay attention and listen to how they handle the bad effects of this change … Last time, we heard Dikko had let his cattle into some people’s farms around Kaworana and ruined their crops. It was Dorcas who caught him. Listen, don’t move an inch.
3. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO... SCENE 1: 4. SAMBO): (UNSURE VOICE) Good day officer, 5. POLICEMAN: (A BIT HARSH) Yes, how may I help you? 6. SAMBO: (STILL) I am looking for one Dikko. 7. POLICEMAN: (A BIT HARSH): Dikko who? You might just as well go to the motor park in Kano and ask for Mohammed. 8. SAMBO: Dikko Abdullahi. I am sorry, sir.
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9. POLICEMAN: (IMPATIENT) Mr. Man, it is too early in the day to waste my time. As you can see, the station is very busy. This Dikko of a man – is he a
policeman, civilian worker in this station, or a worker in the restaurant over there?
10. SAMBO: (FIDGETY) Oh no sir, he is in detention, I mean a suspect. I’m told he was brought here on Friday. 11. POLICEMAN: (A BIT ANGRY) I see. Don’t tell me you know that man. 12. SAMBO: Yes I do. 13. POLICEMAN: (SAME TONE) You mean to tell me that you know such a wicked
man who would deliberately turn his cattle loose on somebody’s farm, a poor widow for that matter named er … er…
14. SAMBO: (SYMPATHETIC) They say her name is Hajara, wife of late Mallam Jibrin.
15. POLICEMAN: Thank you very much. If not a wicked man who would do that? You are a herdsman, aren’t you? Don’t tell me you are the same ten and
three pence … 16. SAMBO: (DENYING): No, no never. I am myself ashamed that a kinsman
carried out such an inconsiderate act. The rest of us keep good relationships with farmers around. In fact, all our colleague herdsmen agreed to stay clear of any farm unless invited by a farmer after harvest.
17. POLICEMAN: That agreement does not include Dikko apparently. Very wicked man.
18. SAMBO: Officer, I still believe there must have been a mistake. 19. POLICEMAN: (SARCASTICALLY) Mistake indeed! Anyway he was very lucky. But
for the prompt intervention of the Village Head who rescued your Dikko and quickly brought him to the station, the villagers would have lynched him and finished his cattle.
20. SAMBO: God bless the Village Head. May Allah grant him peace in his own house. So, officer, what can we do now?
21. POLICEMAN: (LAUGHS) Too late, that question is too late. The case already went before a magistrate who has set bail condition as well as other punitive measures, including damages against him. Someone needs to make an example of these inconsiderate pastoralists who provoke conflicts with farmers every time.
22. SAMBO: (SADLY) I agree with you that until a man wrestles with one of those who trespass through his homestead, others will not stop. But all I am pleading is that we temper justice with mercy.
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23. POLICEMAN: Let me tell you that anyone who encroaches on boundaries deserves rivers as neighbours. So no amount of begging can pacify farmers who have worked hard on their farms, spent money on inputs only to have some callous herdsmen vandalize their farms to accept their losses just like that. It won’t work.
24. SAMBO: I understand. All this trouble is not necessary. Why can’t we live in peace?
25. POLICEMAN: (CUTS IN) Because you think the farmers here are fools – that is why you can make all their yearlong hard work to evaporate like the morning dew.
26. SAMBO: (SOBER) Aah officer, you should be a mediator, but you are even angrier than the farmers.
27. POLICEMAN: Why shouldn’t I be angry? I’m tired and fed up with this incessant clash between farmers and herdsmen. Hardly can a week pass by without one report or the other. If I may ask, why can’t the herdsmen stay in their own land instead of going about causing trouble all the time?
28. SAMBO: (AFTER DEEP THOUGHT): I am not sure they are happy living this wandering and nomadic life either. If only we had enough grazing land and grasses like the olden days, we would have enough food for our cattle and would have stayed in our own villages with our wives and children.
29. POLICEMAN: (SKEPTICAL) However dark a room is, the hand will still know the road to the mouth. I don’t believe any availability of pasture will stop your people from wandering around.
30. SAMBO: (PROTESTING) It is not so. Just look across the road in front of your station here, see how thick the shrubs are. But in my place, your
eyes can see as far as you can imagine because the land is so empty of any vegetation.
31. POLICEMAN: (THOUGHTFUL) Hmn. I understand what you are saying. Even the vegetation here you are praising is not what it used to be. (STERN AGAIN) But vanishing vegetation should not be the excuse to wander around causing trouble. Anyway, I am happy you stopped by because many other herdsmen from your place passed here without stopping. I tell you that your brother must not be a good man.
32. SAMBO: (SMILING) Well, we thank Allah. When I heard of this incident, I decided to see how I can help, even though I am in a hurry to get home because I expect it will start raining soon.
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33. POLICEMAN: You have really done well. Were it not for you the man would just rot here. Alright, there is the bank teller. Go and pay the fines, bring the receipt, and we’ll release him to you
34. SAMBO: Officer, no. I will call his father and relatives for advice on what to do first. I promise I will be back soon to bail him by God’s grace.
35. MUSIC. BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2 36. HINDATU: (OFF MIC) Anybody home? 37. DORCAS: (DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES) Yes‐o, come in Hindatu, how is it with
you? 38. HINDATU: I am fine. I just came by to give you the money for those hard
working laborers working on our farm. 39. DORCAS: Thank you very much, my sister. You know they can be as angry as
they are hardworking before they start threatening me for holding their money.
40. HINDATU: (TEASING) Anyway, here is the money. But who would dare with brave Dorcas?
41. DORCAS: (PROTESTING) Me? I am not brave at all‐o. I fear even a common rat.
42. HINDATU: Hmn. But who is braver than Dorcas who confronted Dikko? You are now the darling hero of this village, don’t you know?
43. DORCAS: Oh that one. I am not brave at all. Look, my anger just overcame my fear when I saw the amount of destruction wreaked on poor Hajara’s farm despite the threat of Dikko to shoot me. But my sister, it was not easy.
44. HINDATU: (LAUGHING) I know. But believe me, no matter how much you underrate yourself, everyone thinks you are a hero. Thanks for confronting Dikko.
45. DORCAS: You know in all honesty, no one has any problems with the Fulani people who pass through this village with their cattle. At least they exchange manure for their cattle grazing on harvested farmlands. But I have always suspected a few of them like loud‐mouthed and mischievous Dikko who will lead his cattle into farms before harvest. Until I caught him red‐handed of course, he had always denied doing anything.
46. HINDATU: Thank God, he did not know he will meet his Waterloo finally, good for him. Ehen, how is your husband Bulus?
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47. DORCAS: (SUDDENLY DOWNCAST) Hmn … Mts! That one, he is there. Can you believe he came home to push me around as usual and to give me all kinds of hassles? Telling me that I am useless.
48. HINDATU: (CUTTING IN) Useless? You? Imagine the pot calling the kettle black! If anyone qualifies for that appellation useless, it is him.
49. DORCAS: You know bad people never think they are bad. Like ugly people, they never check themselves in the mirror.
50. HINDATU: My sister, I have always admired your strength of character in the midst of Bulus abandoning you and coming round to provoke you all the time.
51. DORCAS: (QUIETLY) What else can I do? 52. HINDATU: Other women would fight him or leave him. You stay and take care
of every one without complaint. Oh, you are a strong and good woman; some women in your position wouldn’t even want his name mentioned near them again.
53. DORCAS: My sister, is there any hope and cure for a madman who does not realize that he is naked? Can you imagine that Bulus is humiliating me for my inability to have male children? I cannot blame God for blessing me with female children. After all, there are people looking for a child of whatever gender who do not have one. So what is my offence? (SHE BEGINS TO CRY)
54. HINDATU: Dorcas, please wipe your tears, my dear. How can you talk about your inability to give birth to male children? Talk rather about his inability to father male children. Or do you not know that it is the man that determines the sex of a baby?
55. DORCAS: (CURIOUS) How do you mean? 56. HINDATU: Scientifically, it is a well‐known fact that the man is the one that
determines the sex of the child. 57. DORCAS: I have never known this. To think that I use to even apologize to him
each time I had a female child and he came howling at me. 58. HINDATU: Offer no such apologies any longer. The child comes about as a
result of the combination of the X and Y chromosomes. A male child needs an X chromosome from the woman and a Y chromosome from the man. If instead of producing a Y, the man produces an X, the couple will produce a female child. A woman can only produce an X. But the man can produce either X or Y. So Bulus is responsible for producing your daughters.
59. DORCAS: (SOBER) To think of the way the man use to humiliate me as if it was entirely my fault.
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60. HINDATU: Don’t worry yourself any longer. Just be happy with your lovely daughters who are so intelligent and well‐behaved that everyone in the village commends them.
61. DORCAS: Not Bulus. As far as he is concerned, they are no children since they are females.
62. HINDATU: That is his business. 63. DORCAS: What hurts me most is how Bulus makes it seem like our girls are
not good enough because they are not boys. May God forgive him. 64. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3
65. SFX: KEYS ON PADLOCKS, BOLTS OPENING, GATE CLANGING OPEN AND
CLOSING, FOOTSTEPS AND MUMURINGS OF OTHER DETAINEES IN THE BACKGROUND
66. SAMBO: (ALARMED TONE) Wa yoo! Oh my God, Dikko. I can’t believe this! You are looking so worn out and emaciated. What have they done to you?
67. DIKKO: (VERY WEAK TONE) Ah Sambo. You won’t believe what I’ve been through. I have been sick. You’ve heard of the conditions in there, I’m sure. Mosquitoes as big as bats, dirty stinking crowded cells ... In fact, I am very sick – I need to go for a thorough check‐up as soon as I get out of this mess.
68. SAMBO: (SYMPATHETIC) Sorry, my brother, you must have really suffered these few days.
69. DIKKO: (CUTS IN) You call twelve days a few days? My friend, go in there for even one day and see whether you won’t find a day in there is equivalent to ten normal days outside.
70. SAMBO: (APOLOGETIC) I am sorry, Dikko. I am not in any way trying to underrate the experience you have gone through. But how did this all start, for we must always blame the place we missed our steps rather than where we fell?
71. DIKKO: (EVASIVE) Just a single act of indiscretion is what has brought me into all this. One of my cattle was sick and weak and I decided to rush to a shop in town to pick up a vital drug to revive it because I didn’t want to lose it. That was when the remaining cattle strayed into that widow’s farm.
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72. SAMBO: (SUSPICIOUS) But you must admit that the damage done by the cows was extensive and the farmers were understandably angry. They say that you were lucky to escape being lynched.
73. DIKKO: Believe me, Sambo, I know that. Still the farmers should have understood that it was not deliberate.
74. SAMBO: It is always easy to assume for the other party what is suitable for us.
75. DIKKO: (CHANGING TONE) Anyway, Sambo, I am so grateful for your coming. In fact, I thank you for not considering my behaviour last time. Please let me use this opportunity to apologize for quarreling with you last time out.
76. SAMBO: That is okay, Dikko. You know me – if I were thinking of that I wouldn’t have even come here.
77. DIKKO: That is why I can’t thank you enough for taking all the trouble and expense to get me out of that stinking place. May God repay you.
78. SAMBO: (SENSING WHERE HE IS GOING) Yes, well … but we had to sell twelve cows for 850,000 naira. We used 480,000 to settle with the farmer for crops destroyed, another 100,000 to meet other bail conditions, and the balance is right here with me.
79. DIKKO: (GETTING WORKED UP AND ANGRY) Did I hear you say twelve cows?
80. SAMBO: (A BIT TAKEN ABACK) Yes, we had no choice. 81. DIKKO: (NOW ANGRIER) You had no choice? Now who and what gave you
the right to sell my cows? And not one, not two, not even three, but twelve whole cows?
82. SAMBO: (SHOCKED) I see would you rather prefer your newly acquired mosquito‐infested haven? You should have told me; if I knew you had fallen in love with that place, I would not have bothered to go to this length to get you out of that cell.
83. DIKKO: (PROTESTING) This is not a question of falling in love with jail. But how could you have sold twelve whole cows over this case to compensate those greedy farmers?
84. SAMBO: How many should I have sold? Were you not in court when the magistrate ordered you to pay the money before you could be released? Did you want to die in there?
85. DIKKO: (PENSIVELY) I see. 86. SAMBO: (CONFUSED) You see what? So I have done something bad now by
trying to help?
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87. DIKKO: (SACARSTICALLY) No, you should have been awarded a medal. I knew it; you had perfected the plans a long time ago to reduce me to penury. I knew it, right from the time you took over my father’s cattle.
88. SAMBO: (ANGRY AND GETTING FRUSTRATED): Oh come on! We’re not going back to that surely? Look here, Dikko, I consulted your father and uncle Ribadu before taking this decision.
89. DIKKO: Of course, you used your sweet tongue to convince them on how their son will be impoverished. The same trick you used before taking over my father’s cattle. Let me warn you that I am not as naïve as my father. This matter will not end here. You can’t just go and sell off my entire cattle like that under the guise of trying to save me.
90. SAMBO: (FRUSTRATED AND DEFEATED) What kind of human being are you, Dikko? No wonder others refused to stop and help you. Aa‐ah! I should have known.
91. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADE TO SCENE 4 92. SFX: KEY TURNING AND SOUND OF DOOR OPENING 93. HINDATU: SURPRISED: Turaki! If this is your idea of a joke, I am not amused at
all. How could you be inside and lock the door? I almost had a heart attack.
93. TURAKI: (SELF ASSUREDLY) Hindatu, as this is my house, I can certainly decide to do whatever I like in it. Where have you been? I have been in here for over two hours, and I know from your closing time that you should have been home two hours ago.
94. HINDATU: (NOT AMUSED) You know you lost the right to ask after my movement right from the time you initiated and got this divorce. So I suppose that question of where I have been is not meant to be answered.
95. TURAKI: Suit yourself. Anyway, I have come to find out when you intend to pack and go back to Kakaran Jatau.
96. HINDATU: (MOCKING): Since when did you become the inspector of people living in Kaworana? Congrats over that new appointment, but I did not hear the announcement. I don’t think it’s any of your business whether I stay or go back to the village. But if you must know, I don’t intend to shift an inch from this Kaworana.
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97. TURAKI: (ANGRY AND BESIDE HIMSELF) Look here, Hindatu, in case you forgot, I brought you to Kaworana and the simple reason was our marriage. And since the marriage is dissolved, you do not have any right to stay a day longer without my permission. Get ready to pack your things and go back to Kakaran Jatau.
98. HINDATU: (DEFIANT) Can’t you understand? You lost the right to order me around since, mister man. You are living on past glories. And since this village is not your personal estate, you do not have the right to determine who lives here.
99. TURAKI: (STILL ANGRY) Can’t you understand? I brought you to this village because we were married and now the contract is over.
100. HINDATU: No, I don’t understand. You don’t need to remind me that the contract is over. But as for leaving, I am not ready yet. If you will excuse me, I am tired. I need to rest before making dinner for Zahradeen who will soon return from lesson.
101. TURAKI: This matter is beyond bluffing. Tell me in plain terms how much longer you intend to hang around here as your continuous presence is a great source of inconvenience to me. I can’t continue to live with a woman I have divorced.
102. HINDATU: (UNCONCERNED) But we discussed all this before. You agreed I could stay for as long as I wanted. Or have you now changed your mind? Or did you say those things in the heat of the divorce and never meant them?
103. TURAKI: (GETTING FRUSTRATED) Well, it’s true I said before that you could stay for as long as you wanted, but that has now been overtaken by events. You need to pack out this old stinking furniture of yours since my new wife‐to‐be is bringing new and better furniture.
104. HINDATU: (OBVIOULY ENJOYING HERSELF) I know that with you promises and agreements are meant to be broken. But I intend to stand by that first agreement – I am not moving yet.
105. TURAKI: All I am asking for is that you give me a time. Even the agreement you’re talking about was not blanket and meant to last forever.
106. HINDATU: (LAUGHS) Sorry, Turaki, but you must exercise patience and give me some time to find lodgings. After all, it is not as if I planned for a divorce.
107. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP 05 AND UNDER 108. RIBADU (NARRATOR): My dear listeners, I hope you have enjoyed meeting Dorcas
and Hindatu and seeing how they are coping with the new challenges they are facing. More importantly, I am sure we have
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followed the travails of Dikko. Did I hear you say “serves him right”? Well, I don’t share that sentiment exactly. Dikko is just an example of the ongoing conflicts between livestock farmers and crop farmers which are now a common feature of our environment, and so will feature prominently in our expert corner. Today, one of my good friends who is an extension worker will be here to answer your questions on different grasses and shrubs that farmers can grow which can be used for grazing. This will avoid animals like Dikko’s straying into people’s farms and causing friction all the time. But before you meet my friend, let me as usual invite one of my favourite local artistes to entertain us first.
109. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER ... 110. RIBADU: Good friends, from the title of our program “In Kidiya chanza …,”
when the drum beat changes, we must learn to change our dance steps. So, today let’s discuss briefly the things we can do to avoid the action of people like Dikko. Looking at the effects and consequences of overgrazing on natural pasture land in our region, how can farmers come together with herdsmen to avoid conflict? Meet my friend the extension worker who will shed more light on these issues and many more. Aboki, sanu da zuwa.
111. EXTENSION WORKER: Barka da yao, Mallam Ribadu. 112. RIBADU: Thank you very much. Life could be better, especially if you could
suggest solutions to end the constant clashes between herdsmen and farmers.
113. EXTENSION WORKER: Ah Mallam Ribadu. Everyone wants an end to conflicts. But it’s important to understand the root causes of these conflicts first,
don’t you agree? 114. RIBADU: Of course you are right. 115. EXTENSION WORKER: Because the population is growing, crop farming is
expanding. So more and more land is used for crops. And less is available for grazing. Added to that, there are now more animals. And finally, climate change has caused long dry seasons and other unpredictable changes in the weather. All these things have all reduced the amount of pasture areas for cattle to graze on.
116. RIBADU: What you are saying is so true. When I was a small lad herding with my dad and uncles, there were fewer villages and people. Now of course, every bit of space is someone’s farm. But you talked about increasing animal numbers as if it is a bad thing that causes the conflicts. How?
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117. EXTENSION OFFICER: Well, overgrazing happens when there are too many animals for the land. Then the animals are grazed repeatedly on the same
area of grazing land, leading to the complete loss of all edible vegetation. When there is this kind of heavy pressure on grazing lands, the animals consume the good pasture grasses faster than they can grow again, and eventually only inedible or no vegetation remains. The land becomes severely degraded, dry and vulnerable to desertification. When there is no covering vegetation and the soil is bare, the wind and rain can cause serious soil erosion. Then, any chance of restoring the pasture is lost, because so much of the topsoil is gone.
118. RIBADU: I understand that having too many cattle for too little land can result in overgrazing, and its consequence of degrading the little
pasture lands we still have. Can you tell us how this relates to the conflicts we’re talking about?
119. EXTENSION OFFICER: Yes, Malam. When the animals have no natural vegetation to feed on, they might stray into farm lands. Or like Dikko, herders will
sometimes drive cattle through farms, where they eat up valuable crops. Pressure on remaining pasture lands frequently leads to conflicts between farmers and pastoralists as they compete for water and farm land. These conflicts are sometimes bloody. Accusations and counter‐accusations fly about. Herdsmen guide their cattle to destroy crops or even harvests, and herdsmen accuse farmers of poisoning drinking water and killing their cattle.
120. RIBADU: Tell me about it! How does climate change contribute to the conflicts? I heard you mention that also. 121. EXTENSION WORKER: Climate change affects the weather. The change in the
beginning of the rainy season, how long it lasts, and the amount of rain all affect the ability of pasture land to regrow. Extreme weather incidents such as long dry seasons and floods hurt pasture land that has already been degraded by overgrazing. The long dry season causes food and water shortages for animals. So pastoralists take their animals to greener pastures. Sometimes these are farmlands. The outcome is sometimes explosive.
122. RIBADU: You scare me. So is there no solution in sight for the constant clashes between farmers and the herdsmen? Is there any way out? 123. EXTENSION WORKER: Thank God there is always a way. Is that not what the name
of your program “In Kidiya Chanza” advises? Farmers and herdsmen can come to an understanding through integrating crop practices
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with livestock raising. An animals’ diet of grass, herbs and browse from grazing lands can be supplemented by grazing crop residues in farmer's fields. This can be done once cereal grains have been harvested and removed from the farm. In exchange, the manure left in the fields by grazing livestock helps to enrich and fertilize the farmland, and benefits the farmer. This kind of agreement between herders and farmers is one way of reducing the conflicts. For example, in the Katsina area, the traditional rulers and the leaders of the cattle herders met and arrived at an agreement that has eliminated conflicts in that region. Dates are set during each planting season on the best time for cattle to migrate through their land. In addition, messages are sent to alert the herding communities that harvests have been safely removed before they start arriving to graze on residues left behind in exchange for their manure.
124. RIBADU: So you are encouraging all communities to work out this kind of arrangement for peace?
125. EXTENSION WORKER: Yes, but with caution. 126. RIBADU: Why caution again? I thought the arrangement you have explained
is perfect in all the areas where it is currently practiced. 127. EXTENSION WORKER: It might appear so, but there are two kinds of practice happening now: one is right and one is wrong. 128. RIBADU: Ah‐ha. Which are they? Because farmers and herdsmen would like
to know how to save the environment and prevent clashes. 129. EXTENSION WORKER: The wrong practice is when grazing of crop residues takes
place at the beginning of the dry season after the harvest. In this case, the animals’ manure is exposed to heat, sunshine and drying winds for several months before being incorporated into the soil. Leaving manure under such conditions can result in nutrient loss, and therefore the value of this system in improving soil fertility is low.
130. RIBADU: Alright. Which is the right way? 131. EXTENSION WORKER: The better practice is “night parking” which is better for soil fertility. 132. RIBADU: (CHUCKLING) Which one is night parking again, my dear friend? 133. EXTENSION WORKER: Night parking is when herders and farmers agree that crop
residues will be consumed by a herd in return for a guarantee that that herd will be tethered on the field overnight for several nights. This provides a better return of manure to cropland. The period
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during which night parking is practiced is sometimes short, and should be immediately prior to the rainy season. As the rains approach, the rising humidity stimulates fresh growth and better quality fodder. With better quality fodder, the nutrient quality of manure improves. Thus, the nutrient input to the cropland per night is much higher. Ideally, night parking should take place just before or at the onset of the rains. To avoid compaction of the soil, animals are parked on the fields for only two to three nights.
134. RIBADU: Apart from this post harvest cooperation between farmers and herdsmen, I would think a good way to ensure there’s food for your
cattle is to grow adequate food for your livestock all year round, no? 135. EXTENSION WORKER: Very good, Mallam Ribadu. Yes. Herders should cooperate
with farmers to plant suitable grasses. And legumes should be planted also. There are varieties of grasses and legumes that are great for improving soil fertility as well as providing food for the animals year round, depending on zone you live in. There is a kind of grass we call butun shaamuwaa or butun kudaa. Other plants that are good are waken masar or waken danfanii or dawaar kadaa. These are just examples. But your best bet is to consult an extension worker or an agriculturist at the council office or at an institution. They can suggest the right grass or plant for where you live.
136. RIBADU: Sir, thank you so much for answering all our questions 137. EXTENSION WORKER: You are welcome. 138. RIBADU: Dear listeners, until next week when I come your way again with
more entertaining stories and useful information, continue to listen to this program on how you can improve your soil fertility, and benefit both crops and livestock. You may also contact the extension worker nearest to you in case you forgot any of the expert opinion that our friend just shared with us. But generally, if you need more information about today’s topic, call or text your message to …….. Call your friends and neighbours to join us next time on In Kidiya Chanza…. Bye, bye.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Professor Samuel Kafewo of Drama and Development Communication at the Ahmadu Bello University, Samaru, Zaria. This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 9
Topic: Drought‐resistant varieties CAST Narrator‐Ribadu Hindatu Dorcas Kallamu Uwa Altine OC Hajiya Mariam 1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER… 2. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER ... 3. NARRATOR (RIBADU): Welcome, friends to today’s segment of IN KIDIYA
CHANZA. As I’m sure you all know already, this is a drama program about people just like us, men and women dealing with change in a positive way. And if you still don’t know, my name is Ribadu and I’m a Fulani herdsman like my father before me. Okay, there has been an issue that continues to be of great concern to farmers and even herdsmen in our part of the world. It’s not a new problem though; it has been there before my time, during my time and it’s still there now. I think you can guess what I’m talking about already. It’s the issue of drought or lack of water. Cattle suffer and die when there is no water, farmers cry because their crops die when there is no rain. What can we do to help our farmers in this time of need? Later on in this program, I’ll be speaking with an extension worker on this issue. But before then, let’s go listen to what our friends have been up to.
4. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ... SCENE 1: 5. SFX: SOFT KNOCK ON THE DOOR 6. DORCAS: (ON MIC) Who is it? 7. HINDATU: Dorcas, it’s me. Hindatu! 8. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 9. DORCAS: Hindatu, come inside. Welcome. How are you?
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10. HINDATU: I’m fine, Dorcas. Is Bulus in? 11. DORCAS: No, he has gone out as usual. Zaharadeen! Come on! Would you like some milk? 12. HINDATU: Dorcas, don’t give him anything. It’s still too early. 13. DORCAS: Hindatu, it’s never too early for some milk. Zaharadeen, go into the
kitchen, there’s milk on the table, go and have some. 14. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES AS ZAHARADEEN LEAVES 15. HINDATU: Dorcas, you will spoil this boy! 16. DORCAS: Allow me. You know I have no son of my own. He is like my son, you
know. 17. HINDATU: I know and I’m grateful to you. I actually brought him over for you
to look after him for me. I need to go and see my father in Kakaran Jatau.
18. DORCAS: (CONCERNED) Is he alright? 19. HINDATU: Dorcas, I don’t know. I have just been having constant nightmares
about him. I don’t know what to do. I have not seen him in a while. 20. DORCAS: Why not? I know how much you love your father. 21. HINDATU: Dorcas, I love my father. That’s why I’ve been afraid to go and see
him. I don’t want him to know about the divorce. 22. DORCAS: He doesn’t know? How come? I thought you used to call him every
week. 23. HINDATU: The truth is that I’ve not called him since the divorce. I have been
scared of what to say to him. 24. DORCAS: And he didn’t call you either? 25. HINDATU: I wouldn’t know. Turaki collected back the phone he gave me. 26. DORCAS: Then you really need to go and see your father. I know you are
scared, but he is your father and he is more experienced in these marriage matters. He will know just how to help you ease your pain.
27. HINDATU: I know but I can’t help feeling that he will be so disappointed. You know I have been married twice now!
28. DORCAS: Hindatu, it’s not your fault that your first husband died. Neither is it your fault that Turaki is irresponsible.
29. HINDATU: Maybe I should have been more careful before I married Turaki. 30. DORCAS: No amount of self‐blame can change what has happened. You just
have to leave everything to God and think of your son, Zaharadeen. 31. HINDATU: Thank you, Dorcas. I should start leaving for Kakaran Jatau. Please,
this is my jewelry. Kindly keep it for me till I return. I can’t keep it at home in my absence.
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32. DORCAS: Okay, no problem. (CALLS OUT) Zaharadeen, come and say farewell to your mother.
33. HINDATU: (CHUCKLES) He won’t answer; he is still busy with milk inside. 34. DORCAS: He is just a child. And a lovely child at that. 35. HINDATU: I know. I wish I could take him along. But I don’t want to expose him
to all the idle gossip that will accompany my visit. 36. DORCAS: Gossip about what? 37. HINDATU: You know, they’ll look at him and remember his father and make it
look like I was responsible for his death. 38. DORCAS: Really? 39. HINDATU: Yes oh. If they even hear that I’m divorced now, they’ll just conclude
that I’m a terrible person. 40.DORCAS: That’s sad, but if we want to listen to people’s idle gossip, we will
not move on. Look at me. The stories I heard about me when Bulus decided to choose a lover were so shocking. But I couldn’t allow them to stop me. I just went about my own work.
41. HINDATU: Well, I’ll return tomorrow morning. 42. DORCAS: Go well. I’ll watch over our son till you return. 43. HINDATU: Thank you, Dorcas. You are a God‐send. 44. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO … SCENE 2 45. UWA: (CALLS OUT) Kallamu! Kallamu!! 46. KALLAMU: What is it, Uwa? What is the problem? 47. UWA: That’s just the question I’m about to ask. I entered this room a while
ago and you didn’t even notice. 48. KALLAMU: So? Isn’t a man entitled to his own thoughts? Enh, Uwa? 49. UWA: You are entitled to your thoughts, but I don’t think you are
supposed to be lost in them. What is the problem, Kallamu? 50. KALLAMU: What is the problem? What is not the problem? 51. UWA: I don’t understand, Kallamu. Are you sick? 52. KALLAMU: I am more than sick. I am a dead man. 53. UWA: Kallamu, why are you talking in parables? You are not dead. 54. KALLAMU: Enh, enh? I’m not dead, enh? Uwa, what do you call a man that
cannot provide for his family, a man that is so much in debt he is afraid to go out for fear of creditors?
55. UWA: Well, the rains have started. We can start planting again. 56. KALLAMU: Where is the money for seeds? Or am I going to plant my teeth?
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57. UWA: So what do you want to do? I don’t have anything else to give you. I’ve given you all I own.
58. KALLAMU: So where will I turn to? What will I do? Where will I get money to buy seeds and farm as other men are doing?
59. UWA: Tell Lami to give you her goats. At least she still has some – and she doesn’t contribute anything to this household.
60. KALLAMU: She already gave me some goats, which I sold. 61. UWA: That money was not for the family. It was for you to pay for her
children’s school fees. So don’t tell me she contributed anything. Instead she has added to your misfortune.
62. KALLAMU: I think I’ll just go to the city. 63. UWA: The city? To do what? 64. KALLAMU: To find a job. 65. UWA: What job? Did they tell you that they employ farmers in the city?
You did not even go to school. Please don’t make me laugh oh! 66. KALLAMU: I’ll go and get a job as a “may‐guard.” 67. UWA: You want to be watching over people’s houses? 68. KALLAMU: It’s a job. At least till I’m able to save enough to pay my debts and
buy seeds for planting next season. 69. UWA: So while you are watching over other people’s houses, who will be
watching over yours? 70. KALLAMU: Uwa, I won’t be gone for long. 71. UWA: Oh, so in the meantime I and my children should starve to death,
abi? 72. KALLAMU: Okay, I’ll be sending you money from the city. 73. UWA: Ah, that’s what men usually tell their wives when they are leaving.
What if you don’t send the money? 74. KALLAMU: Then you milk your cow. You still have the cow, don’t you? Sell the
milk and use the money to feed yourself and your children. 75. UWA: What milk? The cow is starving – how will she produce milk? 76. KALLAMU: Okay, so what do you want me to do? 77. UWA: (SOBBING) Ah Kallamu, you want to kill me and my children. You
want us to starve to death. 78. KALLAMU: (SNAPPING AT HER) Uwa, what do you want me to do? 79. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO … SCENE 3 SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 80. ALTINE: OC, OC. I’ve been expecting you. What took you so long?
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81. OC: Sorry, Altine. I had to go to the city market. 82. ALTINE: (EXCITED) Oh I see. You got me a gift. 83. OC: (EMBARRASSED) It’s not a gift, Altine. 84. ALTINE: Then what is it? 85. OC: It’s my seeds. I had to buy some sorghum seeds. You know I lost all
my seeds during that first rain. 86. ALTINE: I see. So are they the drought‐resistant type? 87. OC: What’s that? 88. ALTINE: I don’t know much about them either, but I heard an extension
worker telling my uncle about some seeds that can grow well even when there is little rain. And they mature very fast.
89. OC: Really, I don’t know about such seeds. But if they exist, then that’s what I should be planting.
90. ALTINE: Yes. I think they exist. You know, as the district head, my uncle is privy to a lot of information.
91. OC: I need to know about such seeds. You know I suffered a lot when I lost those seeds.
92. ALTINE: You can go to the Agric experts centre. It was one of them that told my uncle. Anyway, sit down. I just finished making tuwo.
93. OC: So how has your uncle been these days? 94. ALTINE: Fine. He even asked about you when I last saw him. 95. OC: Really? So what did he say about me? 96. ALTINE: Nothing. 97. OC: Nothing? 98. ALTINE: Okay, OC, don’t be scared. (EXCITED) He agreed. 99. OC: He agreed? He said it in his own words that I can become Mai
Anguwar? 100. ALTINE: Yes, he did. He even said that there will be a huge celebration when
you are sworn in. 101. OC: Did he really say that? 102. ALTINE: (LAUGHS) No, he didn’t. But won’t we celebrate? 103. OC: Of course we will. But seriously, he agreed? 104. ALTINE: Yes, he said if you are sure the current Mai Anguwar is near death,
then you can be the next one after his demise. 105. OC: Oh, MaiKano is almost dead. 106. ALTINE: Lest I forget, he also said that two important and respected
members of the community must support you. You know, as the district head, my uncle cannot force you on the people.
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107. OC: Yes, I know that at least two village chiefs must request that I be the next Mai Anguwar.
108. ALTINE: So do you know two that will help you? 109. OC: I’m afraid I don’t. Kallamu is not cooperating at all. 110. ALTINE: What do you mean not cooperating? Has he paid the money he
owes you? 111. OC: No, although he still promises to. But I know he doesn’t have the
money. He will pay when he does. 112. ALTINE: Oh, so you want to wait till he does? He is refusing to help you even
though he owes you money, and you are still being considerate about him.
113. OC: What do you want me to do? 114. ALTINE: Go and ask for your money and make sure he pays. He should have
known better before he decided to bite the finger that fed him. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADE TO … SCENE 4 SFX: CAR PARK. SOUND OF VOICES AND HORNS 115. KALLAMU: (CALLS OUT) Hindatu, Hindatu! 116. HINDATU: (HAPPILY) Kallamu. I’m happy the first face I’m seeing is a
welcoming one. 117. KALLAMU: Hindatu, it’s so good to see you and you are always welcome here.
This is your home. 118. HINDATU: It has not been for a very long time. 119. KALLAMU: Because you have not been living here does not make Kakaran Jatau
any less your home. 120. HINDATU: Thank you, Kallamu. How is your family? 121. KALLAMU: They are all fine. How is your son? 122. HINDATU: Zaharadeen is very well, thank you. 123. KALLAMU: He must be all grown up now, right. 124. HINDATU: We give thanks to God. He is a good son. 125. KALLAMU: That’s good. So how is your husband? 126. HINDATU: (HESITATES) He, em … he is at home back in Kaworana. 127. KALLAMU: So you came alone? 128. HINDATU: Yes, I just came to see my father. It’s been so long, you know. 129. KALLAMU: I know, and they have been expecting you for long. 130. HINDATU: Expecting me? They didn’t know I was coming. 131. KALLAMU: Really? But your father sent Tanko to come and call you weeks ago.
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132. HINDATU: Weeks ago? Tanko didn’t tell me anything. What is the problem? Is my father alright?
133. KALLAMU: Your father has been seriously ill and he has been longing to see you. They have tried to call your phone several times to no avail.
134. HINDATU: Oh my God, nobody told me anything. I didn’t receive any phone call. Will my father be alright? Where is he?
135. KALLAMU: He is at home, and now that you are home, he will be alright. 136. HINDATU: So they didn’t take him to the hospital? 137. KALLAMU: No. But I think when you get home you will know what is
happening. 138. HINDATU: So they sent Tanko to call me and he didn’t say anything. 139. KALLAMU: We all thought you simply refused to come. 140. HINDATU: I swear to God, Tanko did not tell me anything. Why would I hear of
my father’s illness and not come? 141. KALLAMU: Well, Tanko said he told you. He could have been lying. I wonder
what he is up to. 142. HINDATU: Please let me go and see my father. (MTS) That Tanko, I don’t know
he means by this. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP 05 AND UNDER … 143. RIBADU: Hello friends, welcome back. From what our friends are
going through, one topic stands out. Drought‐resistant seeds! Can they really help us in this very needful time? Can they really be a help even as our rainfall has become sporadic? Well, I don’t have the answers to that question. But I have with me here an extension worker that can help us shed some light on this issue. With me here today is Hajia Mariam. Hajia, you are welcome.
144. HAJIA: Thank you, Ribadu. I’m glad to be here again. 145. RIBADU: Let’s start with the issue of drought. 146. HAJIA: Drought is an extended period in which rainfall is lower than
normal and is not enough for plant, animal and human needs. When there is drought, crops are unproductive. And we all know that that can quickly result in famine.
147. RIBADU: Is there any hope then? While we sometimes have very heavy rains, there continue to be long dry periods, which seem longer as the years go by.
148. HAJIA: Well, I’ll try not to alarm you, but the truth is that these long dry periods may get a little worse as this issue of climate change continues.
149. RIBADU: You know what baffles me? In the times of my fathers, they
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could predict the rain and know what crops to plant each season. 150. HAJIA: That may not be the case now because the times are changing
and climate change makes it very difficult for any long‐term weather prediction to be accurate.
151. RIBADU: Hajia, I really don’t want to waste your time. Please, I’m sure our listeners are waiting to hear the solution to the problem. 152. HAJIA: There is no one easy solution to the issue of drought and
unpredictable rains. But there can be some recommendations to assist farmers.
153. RIBADU: Such as? 154. HAJIA: Drought‐resistant crops. 155. RIBADU: Hajia, please tell us more about it. 156. HAJIA: They are regular seeds like sorghum, millet, maize, etc. But they
have been bred to withstand difficult weather conditions, even less rain.
157. RIBADU: So they grow normally too? 158. HAJIA: They grow faster in fact, and the crops are normal and natural.
They are no different from normal crops when they are harvested. 159. RIBADU: I guess they’ll be expensive then. 160. HAJIA: Not at all. Maybe a little more than the usual seeds, but they are affordable. 161. RIBADU: So if the seeds are natural as you say, must they be planted alone? 162. HAJIA: No. In fact, they should be planted with other crops. 163. RIBADU: But where can the seeds be bought? 164. HAJIA: At the agric centre. It is very important, however, that farmers
purchase drought‐resistant crops only from extension workers or a very trusted salesman, to avoid scams and crop failure.
165. RIBADU: So you mean the crops can fail if farmers buy their seeds from someone who cheats them? 166. HAJIA: Yes, if they are not authentic drought‐resistant seeds. And just
like normal seeds, anything can happen. But their general success rate is higher than your usual seeds.
167. RIBADU: So enough seeds need to be stored then in case there is crop failure. 168. HAJIA: Exactly! 169. RIBADU: Well, what else can you tell our farmers? 170. HAJIA: I have to say that it is important that during weeding, farmers do
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not dig the soil more than necessary. Deeply or frequently dug soil tends to be dry soil and may lose its fertility and be more susceptible to erosion.
171. RIBADU: Hmm, when the drum beats change we must change our dance steps. We have heard from the expert. We need to make some changes to survive these trying times. Thank you for coming, Hajia.
172. HAJIA: Thanks. It’s my utmost pleasure. 173. RIBADU: It’s been a wonderful time, friends. Thanks for joining us and we hope you join us next time on In Kidiya Chanza.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Rebecca Ojedele of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 10 Topic: Harvesting water at home: collecting water from rooftops and re‐using bath / kitchen water Cast Ribadu‐Narrator Hindatu Baaba Rakiya Dorcas Tanko Bulus Agric Expert‐ Hajiya Dr. Mariam 1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER … ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5
AND UNDER ... 2 NARRATOR (RIBADU): Hello listeners and welcome to today’s episode of your
favourite program IN KIDAYA CHANZA … a drama program about how people cope with unpredictable weather and unpredictable human beings. My name is Ribadu and I’m a Fulani herdsman like my father before me. Nowadays I stay put in my village, practise some farming and tell stories of the interesting people I met during our annual dry season migrations towards the south. Talking about change … Who amongst us has not been experiencing the unpredictability of the weather, the variability of rainfall, sometimes arriving early or very late, sometimes too much all at once and oftentimes not enough and stopping abruptly. The people about whom I speak are just like us, experiencing what is called climate change. I invite you to pay attention and listen to how they handle the bad effects of this change.… Today Hindatu finally comes face to face with Tanko, who has some explaining to do. But will he? You have met Bulus and Dorcas. The person between the couple is a lady called Rakiya. Stay tuned because you will meet her today to find out what makes her tick. In short, we are loaded. Sit and don’t go anywhere because the story continues …
3. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ...
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SCENE 1: 4. SFX: DOOR OPENING AND CLOSING HURRIEDLY 5. HINDATU: (URGENT BUT PAINFUL TONE QUERIES) Baaba, I demand to know
how long my father has remained like this and why no one has cared to take him to the hospital.
6. BAABA: (EQUALLY UPSET) I demand to know also, madam, why you are only just coming home now, since your father collapsed when he sent for
you as soon as his illness started? Have you just woken up to your responsibility to blame those of us who are uncaring?
7. HINDATU: (PROTESTING HER INNOCENCE) But Baaba, you know I would never have slept a day longer in Kaworana if I’d heard that Alhaji was sick. I swear as Allah lives that I did not hear.
8. BAABA: (INQUIRING) Don’t tell me that Tanko did not come to inform you about Alhaji’s state of health in Kawo …
9. HINDATU: (CUTS IN) Which Tanko? 10. BAABA: (SURPRISED) Are there two Tankos in this family? 11. HINDATU: Baaba, you know you can only lie about a dead man. I did not hear
anything or see any Tanko. I came home for a different reason; in fact, I only heard of Alhaji’s state of health for the first time from Kallamu when I set foot in this village of Kakaran Jatau.
12. BAABA: (ANGRY AND CURSING) I can’t believe that Tanko of all people would do this kind of thing. How can people one trusts be this wicked? God will punish him‐o.
13. HINDATU: Well, he has done it and that is in the past now. 14. BAABA: (STILL VERY ANGRY) What is in the past? To think that he collected
my money for bus fare and even phone calls. He will come back and meet me today.
15. HINDATU: (NOT INTERESTED) So what will you do to him? 16. BAABA: You just wait and see when he comes back here. 17. HINDATU: (CHANGING TOPIC): Well, Baaba, I know you are upset, but the
important thing now is how to take Alhaji to the hospital. Monies collected for bus fare and phone calls are in the past. (CLOSE TO TEARS) Ah! Alhaji’s condition is so bad.
18. BAABA: (RECOVERING) Yes, the hospital. But it will not stop me from demanding for the refund of every penny that Tanko claimed to have used calling and going to town to see you over this matter.
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19. HINDATU: I have heard you, but where is Sahura? I want her to go and check Alhaji Jika Mai Gongoro, so that we can arrange to take Alhaji to the hospital.
20. BAABA: Aah, you can’t find Sahura at home at this time. 21. HINDATU: (SURPRISED) Why? Since I returned I haven’t seen her. Where did
she go to? 22. BAABA: (CUTS IN) Oh, she has gone to look for water. You know water is a
big problem in this village at this time of the year. 23. HINDATU: (RELIEVED) I see. What about the wells in the village? 24. BAABA: (WITH EXAGGERATED SENSE) Wells? Look, I have never seen this
kind of dry season in a long while, not a drop of water anywhere. People will soon start bathing with their spittle. That is, if they drink enough water to even spit.
25. HINDATU: Can’t be that bad, Baaba. Well, I am sure very soon Kakaran Jatau will have its first rains too. It’s been raining for over three weeks now in Kaworana.
26. BAABA: I hope so too. 27. HINDATU: By the way, where is Tanko? 28. BAABA: (SARCASTICALLY) Well, he too has gone to the mosque to pray for rain. 29. HINDATU: Hmn, I wonder why Tanko has behaved like someone who doesn’t
fear God. 30. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2 31. SFX SOUNDS OF QUICKLY APPROACHING FOOTSTEPS 32. RAKIYA: (PANTING) Anybody home? Koin‐Koin (SIMULATING KNOCKING).
Sallam alekum. 33. DORCAS: (OFF MIC.) Yes, I’m coming now. Who is it? 34. RAKIYA: (AGITATED, TO HERSELF) Where on earth is this Bulus? Why can’t
he ever stay at home? Bulus! Bulus!! 35. DORCAS: DISAPPOINTED) Mts! (KISSING THE TEETH IN DISGUST) You?
Rakiya! 36. RAKIYA: (CALLS OUT LOUDER, IGNORING HER PRESENCE) Bulus, where is
this man for God sake, and where would he have gone to? Mts! See his machine (motor bike).
37. DORCAS: (NOW ANGRY) Oh, so there is no shame again, Rakiya? How dare you come into my compound like this shouting? Okay, leave immediately or you will regret it.
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38. RAKIYA: (DEFIANT) Did I hear you say YOUR compound? Well, if you must know, Dorcas, we have equal stake in this house. Bulus, your so‐called husband, asked to marry me and I have agreed. So from now on get used to the idea that this house belongs to both of us.
39. DORCAS: I see, if you bite my nose in spite of mucous, I will bite your anus in spite of feces. Leave my compound now.
40. RAKIYA: (MORE DEFIANT) Are you deaf? Can’t you understand? This house belongs to me too. At any rate, it’s Bulus I came to see and not you. So who are you to walk me out?
41. DORCAS: Look at this butterfly calling herself a bird, this old hag coming to destabilize someone else’s home.
42. RAKIYA: (TEASING) If you were so young and beautiful, your husband would not look outside.
43. DORCAS: (NOW WORKED UP) Look at this shameless husband snatcher! I wonder whether it’s your over‐bleached face that my husband saw attractive. Fanta face, coke leg, old woman … stop bleaching and go and retire from prostitution.
44. RAKIYA: I will not dignify an ugly hag like you with a reply. It’s the owner of the house I have business with. Do you hear me, Dorcas? Bush, ignorant fool.
45. DORCAS: You can soon add crazy to the names you‘re calling me. (GOING OFF MIC) Wait for me there. If you know you are a strong woman, let me come back and meet you there!
46. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 47. TANKO: May Allah have mercy on his subjects. May Allah show his face of
mercy because of the faithful. May Allah have … (STOPS SUDDENLY, SURPRISED)
48. HINDATU: (WITH CONTEMPT) Surprised to see me, Tanko? 49. TANKO: (SURPRISED AND STAMMERS) Hin‐hin‐da‐tu, I did not know you
were around. How are you? 50. HINDATU: (SUBDUED ANGER) As you can see, I am alright. You did not expect
to see me after visiting Kaworana several times in your imagination to inform me about Alhaji’s health.
51. TANKO: (SHAME‐ACED) It’s not like that … 52. HINDATU: (CUTS IN) It’s like what? Tanko, even if you were so broke and
needed the bus fare and phone monies, why couldn’t you help Baaba and carry my father to the hospital? Why did you have to lie
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that you came to inform me about Alhaji’s ill health in Kaworana? Why did you have to lie that I refused to come? Why, why and why?
52. TANKO: I can see you are very angry. The almighty Allah abhors anything said in a fit of anger, so please calm down.
53. HINDATU: Leave Allah out of this. I don’t have patience with those who lie in the name of Allah.
54. TANKO: You sincerely need prayers to control your temper. No matter how angry you are, don’t interfere with the message of Allah.
55. HINDATU: Tanko, please don’t annoy me further than this … 56. TANKO: That is why I will help you to pray. Allah in his infinite mercies will
help you over the spirit of bad temper, and it is one of the worst sins in the holy books.
57. HINDATU: (REALLY ANGRY) Please stop praying for me, because I am not sure if you are praying to the devil or Allah.
58. TANKO: (CALMLY) Don’t add blasphemy please. May Allah forgive you. 59. HINDATU: How long can I listen to this? 60. TANKO: Believe it or not, I have tried my best since Alhaji Maikano took ill. I
have stayed close to him like a son, attended to his needs, and made sure the family lacked nothing in Alhaji’s absence.
61. HINDATU: (INTERRUPTS HIM) Tanko, I beg you in the name of God to stop your campaign and come and help me. Let’s take my father to the hospital first.
62. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADE TO SCENE 4 63. SFX: SOUND OF WATER FROM JERRY CANS POURING INTO DRUMS 64. DORCAS: (TIREDLY) Welcome, Bulus. 65. BULUS: (UNHAPPY TONE) Hunn, good day, my wife. I thought it rained
yesterday? What did you go to the stream for? 66. DORCAS: (UNCONCERNED) Yes, but yesterday is not today and it has not
rained today. 67. BULUS: Anyway, that is your headache. 68. DORCAS: Exactly. Since when has Dorcas’ headache become Bulus’s own, or
when did you start swallowing panadol for somebody else’s headache?
69. BULUS: Suit yourself. Now tell me what happened in my absence. 70. DORCAS: Nothing. 71. BULUS: (INQUISITIVE) Nothing? 72. DORCAS: Yes, nothing. Or nothing significant that I have not already dealt
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with. 73. BULUS: (ANGRY) But what about your uncivilized and unprovoked attack on
Rakiya? 74. DORCAS: I suspected all along that this was where you were going. Why have
you been beating about the bush? 75. BULUS: I even heard that you threatened her. 76. DORCAS: (BOLDLY) Is that what she told you? Why did she not stay to find
out if it was a threat? 77. BULUS: This is really unbecoming; how can you be so uncivil and uncouth? I
did not know your madness had gone this far. 78. DORCAS: (MOCKING) I wish the coward had not run away. You would have
found out the level of my madness. 79. BULUS: I hope you know what this single moment of your uncontrolled rage
has caused me. 80. DORCAS: (TEASING HIM THE MORE) Not unless you tell me. 81. BULUS: If you must know, you have robbed me of the opportunity to have
male children. 82. DORCAS: (FEIGNING IGNORANCE) How, if I may ask? 83. BULUS: (IMITATING HER) “How” she asks me. Selfish woman, after
tolerating you for so long despite your inability to give me a male child, you have gone and driven away someone who would have given me a male child.
84. DORCAS: (LAUGHS) Is that what your ignorant friends have been telling you? Well that was in the past, and now I know better. The person responsible for not having male offspring is precisely you. Blame yourself for your inability to produce the appropriate y cells to fertilize my own x cells to produce male children – the problem is not with me.
85. BULUS: I don’t know who is teaching you such nonsense. 86. DORCAS: I don’t know about nonsense. At any rate, what is wrong with our
daughters? We are blessed with beautiful, hard‐working and obedient children that everyone is talking about in the village. I don’t know what your problem is.
87. BULUS: Beautiful and hardworking indeed … me Bulus, to go to my grave with no one to bear my name. God, what is my offence?
88. DORCAS: I can see that you do not appreciate what God has done for you, but may the same God forgive you for this open show of ingratitude.
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89. BULUS: So you have grown wings and are now shameless – you don’t even know your place as a dutiful wife any longer, and you can now talk to me anytime and anyhow?
90. DORCAS: Of course, I’ve grown wings, Bulus. Or do you think I’ll just sit down quietly so that you and your vulture of a woman friend can squash me under your foot like a cockroach? Never!
91. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP 05 AND UNDER 92. RIBADU (NARRATOR): Well, good listeners and friends, I hope you have enjoyed the
drama today. Did you hear how Tanko tried to wriggle out of answering the question of why he hadn’t gone to tell Hindatu that Alhaji Maikano was sick? And how Bulus blamed Dorcas for having only female children? Knowledge is power, and Dorcas finally put that matter to rest as she explained to him that if he wants boys, he must contribute the y chromosome. That’s telling him, Dorcas! However, one thing that stands out like a sore thumb is the weather and the vagaries of nature. After a false start to the rainy season, people in Kakaran Jatau are suffering the impact of the return of the dry season. Water is scarce and travelling around looking for water for household use seems to be the pastime of folks here. It is not easy for them, I’m sure. While climate change has made this a more common occurrence, it is a problem that our women and children in particular have to deal with. So today we’ll discuss solutions to this issue of domestic water shortages. Hajia Dr. Mariam has arrived. Again, I think it is so appropriate that she is the one to discuss a matter that affects our women principally. Well, while Sahura went to look for water, Tanko went to mosque to pray for rain. That is one way climate change affects women different from men. But first let me invite one of my favourite local artistes while we prepare to receive Hajia Dr. Mariam.
93. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER... 94. RIBADU: Good friends, as we have learnt in this program, if the weather
changes like the chameleon, we too must sharpen our observation skills and senses to see the hidden animal on the branch. Or as we say “In Kidiya chanza …” Unpredictable as the rains are these days, when they do come, they sometimes come down in torrents, making you wish you could collect all this water and keep it for use during the dry season when you suffer to get even a bucket of water. Indeed, both Baaba and Dorcas wished as much in the drama we just heard. It is quite possible to do this at very big and small
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household scales. Today, this program will dwell on harvesting (that is collecting) rainwater at home for household use during the dry months.
As usual, in my roaming around, once again I ran into our friend, the lady whom we spoke to a few weeks ago, a very senior researcher in one of our Agricultural Institutes. Hajia Dr. Mariam’s whole area of interest is also raising farmer’s awareness of rainwater harvesting techniques. Hajia or Dr. Mariam, which one do we call you?
95. HAJIA MARIAM: Call me any one, either Hajia or Dr. Mariam; either one will do. 96. RIBADU: Ok, Hajia Mariam, why is rainwater so important, especially in the
north here? 97. HAJIA MARIAM: During the dry season, availability of water for household use is a
big problem in the rural areas of the dryer northern Nigeria. This situation will more than likely get more serious with rising temperatures due to climate change. The hot dry season in this region is a period of high temperature and no rain. Streams dry up and rivers recede; wells no longer have any water. The experience during this period usually includes scarcity of water, and people, especially women and children, walk very long distances to search for water for drinking and washing. And when they find some, the quality is often questionable, the colors ranging from brown to green. It is nearly impossible to even talk about water for gardens and there’s usually loss of crops.
98. RIBADU: So what is the solution? Listeners, especially women and children, will be interested in your suggestions.
99. HAJIA MARIAM: Families should get into the habit of harvesting rainwater from their rooftops and storing this for use during the dry months.
100. RIBADU: So how do we harvest water from roof tops? 101. HAJIA MARIAM: You were correct when you said that when the rains come in our
region, they come in huge torrents, sometimes causing floods. Imagine if somehow that heavy downpour could be collected and saved for future use. This is the principle behind rainwater harvesting for domestic use. It is easy and inexpensive. The basic techniques are: construct a pipe or trough or gutter from tin or a split length of a bamboo pole. Attach it firmly to your roof or the outside wall of your building to channel rainwater from roofs to drain into a collection jar or tank. You also need a container, something to receive the water and store it.
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102. RIBADU: What if the water becomes too much? 103. HAJIA MARIAM: The next step would be to make a larger rainwater tank. There
are many techniques available for making such a tank, which include using fired bricks, and ferrocement materials (wire and cement). These tanks can be on the surface or underground. Once filled, they should be covered throughout the storage period to discourage mosquitoes breeding in it or evaporation from the sun.
104. RIBADU: So, can this collect enough water for our use throughout the dry season?
105. HAJIA MARIAM: Not exactly, the process described above is probably enough for domestic use only. Also, it should not be used for drinking or
cooking unless we sterilize it properly by boiling it, filtering it and/or chlorinating it.
106. RIBADU: Sounds like these things apply only to people with zinc roof tops. What about poor people with thatched roofs?
107. HAJIA MARIAM: Water can be collected on some thatch roofs, especially if they’re very tightly thatched and slope downwards in some part.
Again, eavestroughs or gutters can be attached to the corners or edges of the thatched roof to collect all the runoff and drain into containers strategically located. Though water collected from thatch roofs is usually coloured brownish, it is still good to use for many domestic chores.
108. RIBADU: Sorry, forgive me if I ask too many questions, again your talk about roofs seem to favour slope‐shaped roofs. What about the flat mud or cement roofs that are very common in these parts?
109. HAJIA MARIAM: No problem. You can harvest rainwater from flat roofs as well. You need to build a gutter out of metal, rubber or a halved
bamboo and strapped securely to the end corners of the roof and sloping towards your containers. Then you need to attach a vertical panel to your roof. When I say "panel," I mean that you could use a flat piece of wood, a piece of metal, or a piece of plastic. Any material will work as long as it is solid.
Once you have the panel, attach it securely to the top of the roof, on the side of the house that faces the direction of the wind. For example, if, when you face your house, the wind usually comes from your right side, then attach the panel to the right side of your roof, between the front and back of the house. If the wind usually comes from the back of your house as you face it, then attach the
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panel to the back of your roof, between the left and right side of your house.
110. RIBADU: Sorry, you are almost losing me there. 111. HAJIA MARIAM: Ok, I’ll explain it again. When you attach the panel at a right
angle to the roof, the top of the panel will be higher than the flat part of the roof. Rainwater will then blow into the panel, and slide down it directly into the gutter.
112. RIBADU: Ok. Finally, you mentioned roofs so many times. What other sources of water are there for farmers?
113. HAJIA MARIAM: (LAUGHING) Oh, Baba Ribadu, if only your “finally” were really so! But I don’t mind answering your questions. Well, rainwater can also be collected from paved courtyards and other clean hard surfaces and drained into well‐placed tanks and underground cisterns. Some farmers even collect rain which runs off paved roads and large flat rocks! The community can also dig ponds at low‐lying areas to collect flood water. Just ensure these are covered or fenced off to avoid mosquitoes breeding, evaporation and, God forbid, children wandering into it. These ponds can provide water for washing and for livestock.
114. RIBADU: Well friends, fetching rainwater is not a new idea, but now you know that we should take better advantage of it than we do. We should discuss together in our homes and communities how to collect as much of the rainwater as possible for storage so that we can have water to use during the dry season.
115. HAJIA MARIAM: To make the water last, ensure to collect what we call grey or wastewater – that is, water you’ve used in the bath or kitchen or
from rinsing clothes. You can re‐use this water in your home gardens. No water should be wasted.
116. RIBADU: Thank you, Hajia Mariam for the tips. Friends, until next time when I’ll return to continue with the stories and information on ways to adapt to climate change, take good care and try out some of these methods we are sharing on this program. If you have tried any of our ideas, please call to let us know. If you have problems trying any of them, also call or send a text message. Contact us also if you need more information about today’s topic, call or text your message to …….. Call your friends and neighbours to join us next time on In Kidiya Chanza…. Bye, bye.
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Acknowledgements This episode was written by Professor Samuel Kafewo of Drama and Development Communication at the Ahmadu Bello University, Samaru, Zaria. This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 11
Topic: Drying Fadamas – Drip irrigation Cast Ribadu‐Narrator Saude Laila Hindatu Sahura Tanko Kallamu Agric Expert – Dr. Yusuf 1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER … ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5
AND UNDER ... 2. NARRATOR (RIBADU): HELLO AND WELCOME, DEAR FRIENDS, TO YOUR FAVOURITE
PROGRAM IN KIDIYA CHANZA … A DRAMA PROGRAM ABOUT HOW ORDINARY FOLKS LIKE YOU AND I LEARN TO COPE WITH THE EVER INCREASING DEMAND FOR UNDERSTANDING THE RAPID CHANGES IN OUR ENVIRONMENT. AS USUAL, MY NAME HAS NOT CHANGED; IN FACT, THAT IS THE ONLY THING CONSTANT IN THIS PROGRAM. I AM RIBADU, A FULANI HEARDSMAN WHO HAS TRAVELLED THE LENGTH AND BREADTH OF THIS COUNTRY. AND YOU KNOW WHAT? WHEN YOU TRAVEL FAR, IT IS POSSIBLE TO SEE A SHEEP ONE DAY GROWING HORNS. IMPOSSIBLE, DID I HEAR YOU SAY? I SAID THE SAME THING WHEN MY FATHER FIRST TOLD ME, BUT IT WAS MY LIMITED EXPERIENCE THEN, BUT SINCE I HAVE MET THE MOST INTERESTING PEOPLE IN THIS WORLD. PEOPLE WHO DEFY ALL LOGIC FOR THEIR BEHAVIOUR, JUST LIKE THE WEATHER THESE DAYS. FOLLOW ME TO THE MAIKANO’S COMPOUND AND LISTEN TO TANKO AND HINDATU. THEIR LAST MEETING, REMEMBER, WAS NOT AT ALL FRIENDLY … JUST WONDERING WHAT TODAY’S WILL BE LIKE?
3. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ...
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SCENE 1: 4. SFX: DISTANT HURRIED FOOT STEPS OBVIOUSLY OF SOMEONE IN
HASTE 5. HINDATU: (ALMOST PANTING) Mallam Tanko, Mallam Tanko! Wait a minute
please, Haba. What’s the rush? I’ve been looking for you all day. 6. TANKO: (WITH SOME SENSE OF SELF‐IMPORTANCE) But was I not going to
come back? Did you have to go looking for me? 7. HINDATU: (PROTESTING HER INNOCENCE) I did not go looking for you. I just
stepped out to the backyard and when I saw you, I ran out to catch your attention before you entered your room. Where are you coming from?
8. TANKO: (NOW BESIDE HIMSELF) From the mosque. To go and petition God’s forgiveness and mercy. Because there are so many sinners offending God daily to the extent that He is almost tired of our petition. But we can’t give up. God is ever merciful.
9. HINDATU: (AMUSED) You must be carrying a lot of burden. 10. TANKO: (CUTS IN) What can one do, when the iniquities of man drive away
the blessings of God? Look at our rainy season disappearing after only one week …
11. HINDATU: (SARCASTICALLY) A tooth destined to break will still break, even when you are eating a ripe banana.
12. TANKO: (CONFUSED) Meaning? 13. HINDATU: Surely man’s sinful nature is not a new thing, what has it got to do
with anything? 14. TANKO: (ADAMANT) It is crystal clear to all but the blind that God is angry
with Kankaran Jatau. Because of our fervent prayers, this village may yet be saved. You know like in the days of the great prophets like Ibrahim that we may yet be saved by a few righteous men.
15. HINDATU: Led by you, I suppose? 16. TANKO: (VERY FULFILLED) What can one do? One only hopes and prays that
these disobedient and immoral women will repent so that our suffering will end.
17. HINDATU: (LAUGHING) I see. So we can safely assume that since it’s been raining for months now in Kaworana where I was, that place must be filled up with righteous people.
18. TANKO: (NOT AMUSED) And what kind of question is that? 19. HINDATU: Never mind what kind of question. Just answer it. And come to think
of it, by your theory, only women commit this immorality.
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18. TANKO: Since God created women as helpmates to men, man has never known peace.
19. HINDATU: (TEASING) But it takes two to wrestle; there can never be a bribe giver without a receiver.
20. TANKO: As far as I know, women are the root of all evils. 21. HINDATU: Well, let me educate you for the sake of men or indeed all humans
who think like you. What is actually happening is known all over the world as climate change, and it is affecting every corner of the world. There’s global warming and uncertain weather like we are experiencing.
22. TANKO: (UPSET) Don’t tell me just because you have been to the city, that you are now wiser than all the men of this village who have decided to pray about this severe drought.
23. HINDATU: (PROTESTING) I am not in any way suggesting people shouldn’t pray. God forbid that I should say that. But that is just one approach to this problem. In many other places, wise farmers are learning how to adapt to climate change. There are solutions to this situation. Let’s pray but also learn the techniques of coping. That is what we should do.
24. TANKO: (MIMICKS, MOCKS) That is what we should do. Is that right? So, is this why you were looking everywhere for me?
25. HINDATU: No, Mallam Tanko, that is not why. Please sit down. 26. TANKO: What is so serious that we can’t just talk now? 27. HINDATU: Well, if that is the way you want it. I actually want to clarify some
issues in the house. 28. TANKO: (PUZZLED) Clarify what issues? 29. HINDATU: (CALMLY) Like how much money is left with you … 30. TANKO: (GOING ON THE OFFENSIVE) What is that supposed to mean? 31. HINDATU: Please don’t be angry. I am asking because Baaba told me that you
have been in charge of the farm and livestock sales since Alhaji took ill.
32. TANKO: And how much did you think I have been able to sell? And did Baaba tell you the entire household has been feeding all this while? Or do you think we have been fasting? Where do you think money for food came from?
33. HINDATU: Feeding or fasting, how many bags of guinea corn, millet or corn did you harvest? What about the fadama rice?
34. TANKO: (VERY ANGRY) Are you the only one in this world that is unaware of the poor harvests last season? Fadama? Is there anyone who still
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engages in dry season farming these days when the fadama land is now as dry as bones? Perhaps you expect us to manufacture rain by force.
35. HINDATU: (QUIET) 36. TANKO: When do you intend going back to the city? 37. HINDATU: Which city? 38. TANKO: To your Kaworana of course, to your nice job. And God has even
added rain for you, so that you can leave us inside our suffering here.
39. HINDATU: (EXASPERATED) Who says I am going anywhere? As you can see, the family needs me, Tanko, so there will be no talk of me going back to Kaworana for now.
40. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2 41. SFX: SOUNDS OF APPROACHING FLIP‐FLOPS AND HEAVY SOUND OF
WIND. GENERAL ATMOSPHERE OF CONFUSION. 42. LAILA: (PANTING, COMING ON MIC) Saude? Are you in the house? The
world is truly turning upside down. Have you been outside at all to see what I’m seeing? I have never witnessed this type of sandstorm and build‐up of sand dunes in all my life.
43. SAUDE: Welcome, Laila my good friend. To answer your question, I’ve been out to help my in‐laws find some of their property under the sand dunes. You are brave to come through this heavy storm‐o.
44. LAILA: What can one do? I had to come. And I see that yours is the part of the village most covered by dunes. Just imagine how half of the houses around you here are sunk under sand … but thank God yours have been spared.
45. SAUDE: Spared? We are affected too. Can’t you see that my husband Sambo’s entire family compound is affected? That is why my mother in‐law has moved in with me. How could I be more affected?
46. LAILA: Whatever situation we find ourselves in, we still have to thank God. 47. SAUDE: Well, in this matter, I don’t know whether to thank God or curse my
luck that our house is standing and now I have the sandstorm and the dune of my mother in‐law to contend with.
48. LAILA: (SCOLDS) Don’t say a thing like that! Would you rather exchange positions with me?
49. SAUDE: I know it’s difficult, but you don’t know what I am going through.
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50. LAILA: I say just thank God. Come and see the fence of our house and the way our main azure (parlour in Hausa) has collapsed under the weight of the sand. Not even our poor donkey was spared. We tied him, but the wind took him, stake and all.
51. SAUDE: (SHOCKED) What!? It’s a lie. 52. LAILA: I wish. That is why, Saude, we are making plans to re‐locate to the
neighbouring village. 51. SAUDE: I wish my mother in‐law would relocate to another village too. 52. LAILA: Haba, Saude, don’t talk like that. At least you should be more
sympathetic … Do you think she wished that her house be destroyed so that she can come and live with you?
53. SAUDE: I’m the first to sympathize with anybody befallen by any misfortune. But my mother in‐law never sees anything good in what I do. She criticizes everything I do.
54. LAILA: In only one day? Haba, Saude! 55. SAUDE: Look, Laila, I don’t like what you’re suggesting. As if I’m lying. Just
wait … let her come out. You will hear how she will be abusing and cursing.
55. LAILA: Eh‐ehn? I’m surprised. I thought your mother‐in‐law liked you. 56. SAUDE: Me too. 57. LAILA: Still, you don’t have to wish her bad. Actually a lot of people in the
village are moving too. 55. SAUDE: How sad. To suddenly uproot people from their natural abode is not
going to be easy. 56. LAILA: It’s actually not an entirely new experience for people here. I’m told
that less than twenty years ago or thereabout, they migrated here from another location when sand dunes and the desert took over farm lands and homes.
57. SAUDE: Yes I heard about it all the time growing up in Dogon Alheri. Were we even born by then?
58. LAILA: Welcome to your own first movement. By the way, what are you people waiting for? Do you want the entire roof of your house removed or the compound covered by sand dune before you move?
59. SAUDE: I am waiting for my husband to return so that we can decide whether we are staying or moving.
60. LAILA: I see. 61. SAUDE: (CONFUSED) What is the problem? 62. LAILA: Just wondering if that is a wise decision, considering the speed of
the approaching sand dunes.
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63. SAUDE: I just have to wait; I am sure it’s only a matter of days before Sambo returns. My only worry is how much longer I can contain my anger with my mother in‐law before I burst; I am getting fed up.
64. LAILA: (LAUGHING) Honestly, Saude, your problem is a small one. Don’t forget that shyness or discretion and patience are Fulbe’s Pula’aku (virtues that distinguishes a Fulbe from other people).
65. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 66. SFX: SOUND OF PLATES AND SPOONS CLASHING IN A BASIN, WASHING
GOING ON. 67. HINDATU: Saanu da aiki, Sahura. Is there water? I need to bathe so that I can
go to the hospital to relieve Hajia Baaba. She must be so tired, poor old woman, staying awake as usual all night attending to Alhaji.
68. SAHURA: Just look around the corner there; there’s some water in a bucket. 69. HINDATU: Thank you very much. I don’t know what we would have done
without you, concerning this issue of water. 70. SAHURA: Aah Yaya Hindatu, thank the children also. We scout around every
morning and evening together. 71. HINDATU: How and where do you people manage to get the water? 72. SAHURA: My sister, it is not easy. Sometimes we trek miles to neighbouring
villages just to get the little water we use in this house since all the wells around here are either dried up or covered by sand.
73. HINDATU: In that case, let me just use half a bucket. 74. SAHURA: No, just go ahead. But I think we need to start buying water very
soon from mai ruwa (water sellers) just like other households. 75. HINDATU: Do you have money to buy water for the entire family’s use? 76. SAHURA: Aah, where will I get that kind of money? I was thinking that we can
get some money from you. After all, when Alhaji Maikano your father was well, I had never gone out once looking for water. It is because Baaba insisted on practicing thrift that I am now the donkey of the house looking for water all over the place like a maid servant.
77. HINDATU: My dear I understand, we just have to manage. In fact, I will go with you tomorrow to look for water.
78. SAHURA: God forbid, what do you want people to say when they see you carrying a bucket and roaming the entire village looking for water?
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79. HINDATU: I don’t care; it is the times that dictate it. After all everyone knows there is water scarcity everywhere. Besides it will be for only a few days; the rains are around the corner.
80. SAHURA: How do you know it’s going to rain very soon? 81. HINDATU: I know because it was raining steadily in Kaworana before I came.
Besides, have you not noticed the acacia tree shedding its leaves? This is a sure sign that the rains are around the corner.
82. SAHURA: It will rain, it will rain, is all everybody is saying. But instead it’s getting hotter and dryer by the day. I beg you people to bring money for us to get water from the water seller because, as for me, I am tired.
83. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADE TO SCENE 4 84. SFX: OUTDOOR AT THE MAJELISSA (MEN’S RELAXING SPACE USUALLY
UNDER A BIG TREE). A BENCH OR CHAIR IS DRAGGED. 84. KALLAMU: (EXCITEDLY) Aah, Tanko, my good friend, how is today? 85. TANKO: (DOUR) Fine 86. KALLAMU: (SUSPICIOUS) Aah aah, Tanko, I am not sure all is well … your face
tells me a different story. Besides, I have never seen you in this majellissa answering greetings in monosyllabic form. Tell me … is it the weather? It is affecting everybody; there is no need to wear a permanent frown on one’s face.
87. TANKO: This may one of the worst weather we have had in living memory, but I have seen many bad ones too … it cannot make me this sad. It’s that Hindatu.
88. KALLAMU: What about Hindatu? 89. TANKO: (GETTING VERY ANGRY) Can you imagine a woman, I mean a mere
woman, had the audacity and temerity to question and challenge me on decisions I made about farming.
90. KALLAMU: You don’t say! But what exactly happened? 91. TANKO: (STILL ANGRY) Just imagine Hindatu having the audacity to blame
me for not using the fadama land to raise crops during the dry season.
92. KALLAMU: I don’t understand myself. Maybe you did not tell her that the fadamas have been dry and dusty for the past two years. Or you did not explain the extent of the drought and its effect on the fadama?
93. TANKO: There was nothing I did not tell her. She even went to the extent of going to look at the farm herself.
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94. KALLAMU: Then I’m really surprised. 95. TANKO: Not only that … after inspecting the fadama, she had the effontry to
suggest that we should sink a wash well and pump water for irrigation and plant vegetables, sugarcane and other crops.
96. KALLAMU: Interesting … 97. TANKO: (CUTS IN) What is interesting about that? 98. KALLAMU: I mean I am surprised that Hindatu’s suggestion is causing you so
much grief. An advice is either accepted and implemented or rejected and discarded. That should not cause you to lose sleep.
99. TANKO: (WITH CONTEMPT) How can a woman tell me, a farmer, what to do? What is this world turning into anyway?
100. KALLAMU: If you ask me, wisdom has no gender. But why lose sleep? Hindatu will soon go back to the city anyway.
101. TANKO: (HEATED) She’s not going back apparently! 102. KALLAMU: (SURPRISED) That is not possible. What about her husband in the
city? 103. TANKO: Well, do not say I told you first … I overheard the women of the
house saying that her husband divorced her – which does not come to me as a surprise in view of her spirit of challenging men.
104. KALLAMU: Oh what a pity … I pray that Almighty Allah grant her a successful marriage next time.
105. TANKO: Oho dei (Hausa for “whatever”). Somebody should warn that know‐it‐all o. Imagine coming from wherever to find fault with my decisions. Mts (typical sound produced by kissing one’s teeth, as a sign of disgust) Next time she tries it, I’ll not take it from her.
106. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP 05 AND UNDER 107. RIBADU (NARRATOR): Dear listeners and good friends, It looks like the battle lines
are drawn between Hindatu and Tanko, so we’ll have to see how things will evolve between them now that we know she’s no longer going back to Kaworana. Yes. So much is happening and will continue to happen in Kakaran jatau, Kaworana and Dogon Alheri where it seems sand dunes are driving people out of their villages. Hmn. That is just terrible, isn’t it? One other thing that runs through all the stories in today’s episode is the acute scarcity of water. If we remember, Tanko went for a long session of prayers on behalf of sinners so that there could be rain. Hindatu learned today that the fadama land is bone dry and unable to raise any crops last season. And Sahura and the children are walking miles daily in search of water to use in the house. Is any of this familiar to you, my people?
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So how do we get water to sustain our crops in the midst of delayed rain or no rain at all? This is why we are going to talk about irrigation. As usual, my expert guest that I will soon introduce to you will discuss some irrigation techniques which are cheap, simple and low cost to be adopted by farmers for their gardens or main crops. I am told that a community can even decide to gather resources for the creation of large water catchments such as ponds or dams, or invest in small scale irrigation improvements such as manual pumps or irrigation channels. Before you begin to confuse me with one of the experts, let’s listen to some of my favorite music while we prepare to welcome the real expert who will talk to us on this and other issues.
108. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER... 109. RIBADU: My good friends, as we say in this program, when the drum beat
changes the dance step must also change with it “In Kidiya chanza…. You all heard the main complaint people in today’s story had in common. Lack of water. At home and on the farm. How can we who live in this semi‐arid environment continue to grow and harvest crops well in this hot and dry weather? In past episodes, we have looked at some things farmers can do to maintain water in their soil. I still remember Dr. Yusuf told us about mulching, tied ridges and so on. As for water for domestic use, remember him telling us to prepare to harvest rainwater and store for use in times like these? It’s not that I want to take over your job Dr., but just to remind us. Hope you don’t mind? So how can we be able to produce crops well in this semi‐arid environment by technologies that concentrate and store rainfall for subsequent use by crops (water harvesting), or by efficient irrigation techniques using water from dams and rivers or even wells or boreholes. Our regular guest Dr Yusuf is back with us today. Sannu, Doctor.
110. DR. YUSUF: Of course I don’t mind, Mallam Ribadu. I’m very happy that you remember our discussion so well. But first things first. I trust that you are well?
111. RIBADU: Maybe I am like the proverbial man with deep eye sockets who did not start crying early enough for tears to be noticed at his mother’s funeral. All cannot be well, Dr Yusuf. The rainy season should have started and become established by now. But in many parts of the region we are still talking about lack of water for plants. What is to become of us if the season continues to remain dry for a long time?
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112. DR. YUSUF: Well, Mallam Ribadu, as you already know on this program, uncertain seasons, late onset of rains, unpredictable weather, and a long dry season are all signs of climate change. The earth is getting warmer, and this is causing the the experiences we’re going through. What we all need to do is as your program’s title prescribes “change our dance steps to fit the new drum beats.”
113. RIBADU: (EXCITED) As long as there are solutions, I’m a happy old man. Please tell us about the “new dance steps.” (BAFFLED) I mean dear doctor, who has ever heard of the Fadamas drying up? All through my life, farmers were able to grow crops during the dry season because Fadama land retained water all year round.
114. DR. YUSUF: Well, the reality is that this is no longer the case, mostly because of the very dry spells we sometimes experience even during the rainy season, but also because of poor use of our water and land resources. Still, irrigation techniques can be effective measures to adapt to climate change.
115. RIBADU: Irrigation, Dr Yusuf? For the sake of farmers who have never used the method, can you explain why they should try it?
116. DR. YUSUF: Yes, of course, Mallam. As we sometimes experience dry pockets even during the wet season, irrigation of our fields and gardens can enable us to grow food with confidence that they will not wilt and die. Irrigation allows families to grow some crops in periods when relatively few other farmers are growing them. Therefore, when the price for those crops is usually higher, they can make money.
117. RIBADU: Alright Dr Yusuf, I’m sure listeners would like to know the types of irrigation available. But caution … the kind that poor farmers like us can manage‐o.
118. DR. YUSUF: But of course. I know what you mean, Mallam. I will not recommend something impossible for you. There are a few irrigation methods available to the small‐scale farmer: watering can and bucket irrigation, basin irrigation, furrow irrigation, and small scale simple drip irrigation, both conventional (a pump and hose with tiny holes in it) and a small scale bucket and drum kit. Of these, the one I would like to recommend and talk about is the simple drip irrigation. Because it’s easy and inexpensive to set up and it’s really effective. All a farmer requires are a hose with tiny holes in it and a small bucket and drum kit.
119. RIBADU: Doctor, but what is a bucket and drum kit?
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120. DR. YUSUF: Let me start by explaining the larger drip irrigation technique. Drip irrigation uses low‐cost plastic pipes or hoses laid on the ground between the ridges or at the base of crops to irrigate vegetables, field crops and orchards. There is a low‐cost system called bucket kits, which requires a standard plastic bucket or larger metal drum if you have one. You put the water into the bucket or drum and use lengths of hoses that you can cut to the appropriate lengths attached to the source of water. Small holes have been driven throughout the length of the hoses at appropriate intervals to allow water to drip out and keep the base of the plant wet without wasting any water.
121. RIBADU: Doctor, I still imagine myself as the local farmer out there. Could you explain more?
122. DR. YUSUF: The system works by taking water from the bucket or drum and spreading the water onto a field through a number of narrow pipes or hoses, which are laid out on the soil surface parallel to the rows of crops. Tiny holes in the pipes allow tiny drips of water to come out, and this seeps straight into the ground, to quickly reach the roots of the crop.
123. RIBADU: So this keeps going until the water in the container finishes before it will stop dripping?
124. DR YUSUF: Not really, Mallam. You will need a tap or valve, something you can turn on or off. Although it is a simple system, it allows farmers a lot of control. By adjusting the tap that feeds water into the pipes, a farmer can provide just the right amount of water to the crop. It is also possible to add fertilizer, such as urea, to the water at the same time. Drip irrigation systems can be supplied by pumped water, but farmers can also simply place the container (bucket or drum or tank) on a higher pedestal (table or platform), from which the water will flow downwards through the connected pipes or hoses.
125. RIBADU: What should be the size of the bucket? 126. DR. YUSUF: There is no prescribed size, but generally a 2 litre bucket with a 30
metre hose is good enough to start with. 127. RIBADU: So all we need is a bucket and hose. 128. DR. YUSUF: More or less. As well as the bucket and hoses, you will need several
strong poles, and you may also need tools. The poles are used to make a support structure to hold the bucket above the ground level. The stand should hold the bucket about 1 metre above the ground. The whole procedure of setting up the system will only take about
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one hour, including building the bucket support. Depending on the size of the farm, larger containers may be required.
129. RIBADU: So my dear friends, you have heard from our expert. Don’t allow the current weather to frustrate you. I hope you listened well. Why not go ahead and experiment with what Dr Yusuf has told us today? I will be here next time to continue with the stories and information. Meanwhile if you need more information about today’s topic, call or text your message to …….. Call your friends and neighbours to join us next time on In Kidiya Chanza…. Bye, bye.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Professor Samuel Kafewo of Drama and Development Communication at the Ahmadu Bello University, Samaru, Zaria. This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 12 Topic: Control of Striga weed CAST Ribadu ‐ narrator Dijie Altine Sambo Dikko Dorcas Bulus Extension Officer Mallam Yusuf 1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER … 2. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER ... 3. NARRATOR (RIBADU): You are welcome once again to today’s segment of IN
KIDIYA CHANZA.… For those of you who are just joining us for the first time, IN KIDIYA CHANZA is a drama program about people just like us, men and women dealing with change in a positive way. My name is Ribadu and I’m a Fulani herdsman like my father before me. You are just in time for another interesting instalment of the stories of our friends in Kakaran Jatau and Kaworana and how they are dealing with climate change and all its resultant issues. Last time you heard that my nephew caused a big crisis driving his cattle into someone’s farm. When Sambo stopped to bail him, it turned into another bitter confrontation. But that’s Dikko for you and if I know him, he must be plotting his revenge whether Sambo deserves it or not. Enough of my rambling. Time to see what everyone’s been up to. Then much later, Mr. Yusuf will visit and talk about striga. So gather your family and your friends. It’s time for IN KIDYA CHANZA.
4. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ... SCENE 1: 5. SFX: COWS MOOING AND BIRDS CHIRPING 6. SAMBO: Dikko! Watch where your animals go. Unless you want them to lock you up again. 7. DIKKO: (ARROGANTLY) Nobody can lock me up, Sambo. Me! Dikko! No one can do that!
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8. SAMBO: (SARCASTICALLY) You! Dikko! You did not have that attitude when you were rotting in police custody. I thought those two weeks would have rid you of your attitude.
9. DIKKO: What attitude? Oh, because I chose not to do anything. Look, do you think anyone could have tried that nonsense back at home? 10. SAMBO: If they don’t, it’s out of respect for your uncle Ribadu. 11. DIKKO: Don’t mention that name to me, Sambo. 12. SAMBO: Very well. Just watch your herd. No one will bail you out this time if anything happens to you. 13. DIKKO: Nothing can happen to me and if it does, you know where to find
my herd. I remember that your solution was to sell my cows to bail me from cell.
14. SAMBO: Dikko, whose animals should I have sold? Mine? I’m sure you don’t mean that. 15. DIKKO: If you were the one in trouble Sambo, I would not have sold your animals. 16. SAMBO: (SARCASTICALLY) Hmm… Why is that so hard to believe? The
Dikko that I know would not just sell my animals, he would leave me to rot in a prison cell, wherever.
17. DIKKO: Then we’d better pray the righteous and holy Sambo never gets in trouble. 18. SAMBO: You know I won’t. Better still, I can’t because I’m going back home tomorrow. 19. DIKKO: Which home? 20. SAMBO: Dikko, I’m a herdsman, but that does not make me homeless. I still have a house and a home back at Dogon Alheri. Remember? 21. DIKKO: And a brand new wife! I remember that! Go home to her. I’m sure you’ve missed everything she can do. 22. SAMBO: I’ve missed my wife, true. But I really want to get home because I
believe the rain will soon start. It should have started in fact. I need to start planting my millet now.
23. DIKKO: Rain? When was the last time we saw rain? The weather has been really bad. 24. SAMBO: It’s started raining in some areas. At least Allah will grant us some? 25. DIKKO: Keep praying! 26. SAMBO: I will. By the way, Dikko, do you know there are wild animals around here? 27. DIKKO: Wild animals? No! Why?
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28. SAMBO: I don’t know. I lost a calf yesterday. Something killed and tore it up. 29. DIKKO: How could that have happened under your so‐called watchful eye? (MOCKING LAUGH) Where’s my father to see this? 30. SAMBO: I’m serious, Dikko. Just now I heard another noise, a rustling
around where my cows were feeding. It made them very restless and jumpy.
31. DIKKO: So what did you do? Didn’t you go after it? Or were you afraid like a grasshopper? 32. SAMBO: Afraid? I? Mts! (KISSING HIS TEETH) I didn’t see it well; I just shot
an arrow in that direction but the light was too bad and the bush was thick.
33. DIKKO: So you ran away! 34. SAMBO: Dikko, be serious. It ran away, I think. 35. DIKKO: I know there are wild dogs in this area. Sometimes, even an odd lion. But since you shot it, was there still anything? 36. SAMBO: No, just silence. I’m concerned for my herd. 37. DIKKO: You must have scared it away. Don’t worry about it. I’m here, remember? 38. SAMBO: What’s that supposed to mean? You are not taking this seriously
at all. Anyway, I think we should leave this area before whatever it is comes back. And we’d better take turns watching the herd.
39. DIKKO: I’ll sleep now. You watch. I’ll relieve you later. 40. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2 41. ALTINE: (ON MIC) Hello o! Who is at home? 42. SFX: KNOCKS ON THE DOOR 43. DIJIE: (OFF MIC) Who is that? I’m coming oh. 44. ALTINE: (ON MIC) Please open up. I’m hot! The sun is ah … (EXASPERATED) 45. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 46. DIJIE: (EFFUSIVELY) So sorry I was … (PAUSES ABRUPTLY) Who are you? 47. ALTINE: Hi, I’m Altine. Is OC at home? 48. DIJIE: (IMPATIENTLY) No, he is not. What do you want? 49. ALTINE: Oh, you must be Dijie. OC has told me a lot about you. 50. DIJIE: (ANGRILY) I asked what you wanted! 51. ALTINE: Oh, don’t be angry. I brought you some fruits. Banana, oranges,
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mango … 52. DIJIE: (INTERRUPTS) For who? 53. ALTINE: For you and the family. 54. DIJIE: Are you alright? Who asked for it? Who told you that we are hungry? 55. ALTINE: Take it easy, Dijie. I didn’t come here to quarrel. Please … where is OC? 56. DIJIE: Inside my nose. Isn’t that where you kept him? Come closer and check him there. 57. ALTINE: Dijie, please stop being so quarrelsome. 58. DIJIE: Altine or whatever your name is, don’t get me started. Don’t you
dare come to my house and think you can talk to me anyhow, okay? If there’s something you need, just say it now or …
59. ALTINE: Okay! Is Ngozi around? 60. DIJIE: (IMITATING HER) Is Ngozi around? What do you want with her?
Is she your mate, calling her name anyhow? Mts! (LONG KISSING OF TEETH)
61. ALTINE: Dijie, is this how you are? Ha! Please just take this basket of fruit and let me be on my way. 62. DIJIE: Altine, Altone or Maltine whatever! Why don’t you come out straight and tell me what you are really looking for? 63. ALTINE: Dijie … 64. DIJIE: I don’t know what your problem is, Altine. The whole town
knows that you are a harlot and instead of you covering your head in shame, you walk around painted all over with pancake.
65. ALTINE: Excuse me? 66. DIJIE: You even have the courage to come into my house and ask for my husband. 67. ALTINE: Your husband is my political friend. 68. DIJIE: Indeed. So is the campaign not over yet? What are you still doing here? 69. ALTINE: Look Dijie, I won’t stand here and let you insult me. We don’t belong to the same class, you know that? 70. DIJIE: (LIVID) Are you mad, Altine? Who do you think you are? Because
you have an uncle in government you think you are something? Come closer, let me rub that ugly face of yours in mud and you’ll know what class you belong to.
71. ALTINE: I have no business with you, Dijie. You are just an illiterate. 72. DIJIE: (SHOUTING) And what are you? Harlot! Whore! Husband‐
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snatcher! 73. ALTINE: Keep shouting like a mad woman. I’m leaving and I’ll mention this to your husband. 74. DIJIE: Will he beat me? (CLAPPING HER HANDS) Go. Go away, get lost,
you husband snatcher, husband thief! You think I’ll just stand by and have you weasel your way into my home?
75. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 76. SFX: FAINT SOUND OF SOMEONE HUMMING BUT SOUNDING EXHAUSTED 77. DORCAS: (SIGHS HEAVILY) Oh God, I’m so tired! 78. BULUS: (LOUDLY) Dorcas, what are you doing? What are your children doing? 79. DORCAS: Bulus, what do you mean? We’ve been helping you all day with these weeds and you are asking such a question? 80. BULUS: Well, I can only see you and your children lazing around. 81. DORCAS: Bulus, you should be more appreciative. I could be in my own farm now but I chose to be here with you. Is that so bad? 82. BULUS: Dorcas, if you want to be here, then bend down and pull those weeds. 83. DORCAS: Bulus, these are not normal weeds. They are wuta‐wuta. 84. BULUS: And you think I don’t know that? 85. DORCAS: Bulus, we’ve been trying to uproot them, but they are growing
back very fast. What are we going to do? They may end up killing all the maize that’s just growing.
86. BULUS: (WORRIEDLY) Dorcas, I also don’t know what to do. I think only herbicides can kill them. 87. DORCAS: Then buy them and let’s see what happens. 88. BULUS: Well, that can only happen if you give me the money I’ve been asking you for. You know that I don’t have any money. 89. DORCAS: But I told you already that the money with me is Hindatu’s. She gave it to me so I can pay the labourers while she is away. 90. BULUS: That’s the same thing you keep saying. Should you be loyal to Hindatu or to me your husband? 91. DORCAS: I have to be loyal to Hindatu with her money. And I am loyal to you in every way. Is that not why I’m here? 92. BULUS: Then let’s continue weeding. Tell your children to pick up hoes and weed. There is no time for lazing around.
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93. DORCAS: You keep saying “lazing around.” If you had started this farm before now, it wouldn’t have gotten to this stage, covered with weeds.
94. BULUS: So, Dorcas, you are confronting me now? 95. DORCAS: No, Bulus, I’m saying maybe you should go to the Agric centre.
This wuta‐wuta is too much. They’ll be able to tell you what to do. 96. BULUS: (SARCASTICALLY) Oh, so you are knowledgeable now? Because
you own a tiny little farm? Growing spinach? Please woman, go and do your work.
97. DORCAS: (SURPRISED) My farm is tiny? How did you even know that? Have you ever been there? Have you ever come to see how the farm is faring?
98. BULUS: See this woman‐o. You think farming is a play thing? I don’t have time for that joke you call a farm? 99. DORCAS: Joke, right? The way it’s looking, that joke might end up feeding your children since you’ve decided not to take any advice. 100. BULUS: Dorcas, you know that I am very calm now. Don’t let me get
angry. Just get back to work. Look, see your children; they’ve stopped work now because you are here complaining about nothing.
101. DORCAS: Bulus … 102. BULUS: Please just get back to work. We have a lot to do before night comes. 103. DORCAS: (UNHAPPILY) This is just unnecessary suffering. The striga (wuta‐
wuta) weed is growing faster than we can pull it out. It’s like all our work is in vain. Why won’t you just ask for advice?
104. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADE TO SCENE 4 105. SFX: SOUNDS OF COCK CROWING TO SIGNIFY DAWN 106. DIKKO: (CALLS OUT URGENTLY, ON MIC) Sambo! Sambo! 107. SAMBO: (SUDDENLY AWAKE, OFF MIC) Dikko, what is it? 108. DIKKO: Sambo, come here quickly. 109. SFX: QUICK FOOTSTEPS AND BUSH RUSTLING AS SAMBO COMES ON MIC 110. SAMBO: (COMING ON MIC) Dikko, is it the animal that has been scaring
our animals? Have you … (PAUSE MID SENTENCE ON MIC) My God, it’s a boy.
111. DIKKO: That’s what I found this morning as I was going round after my
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night watch. 112. SAMBO: (SCARED) Dikko, please don’t tell me I did this! I killed him? God! 113. DIKKO: Hey, you thought it was an animal. You couldn’t have known he was a small boy. 114. SAMBO: God, what will I do? Let’s take out that arrow from his neck. God! 115. DIKKO: Relax, Sambo! 116. SAMBO: Relax? I just found out I accidentally killed a man and you are
telling me to relax. How can I do that? Let’s bring him out from the bush. God, I’m finished!
117. DIKKO: What do you want to do? 118. SAMBO: I have to go and report to the village we just passed. He may be
from there. His family must be frantically looking for him. God! What have I done?
119. DIKKO: Which village? The one where I was locked up because my cattle ate something from someone’s farm? 120. SAMBO: Dikko, this is not about you. And it’s the closest village. 121. DIKKO: Sambo, I’m asking you to stop fidgeting for a second and listen to yourself! Think! 122. SAMBO: Think? Think?? I can’t think! I’m a murderer! Can’t you see that? I only know I have to return this body … 123. DIKKO: Well, at least we both know that if you do that, you will not be
locked up like they did to me. They will simply kill you for killing one of their own.
124. SAMBO: What? 125. DIKKO: Do you know what I went through in that two weeks I was locked
up there? If you knew what they did to people, you would never consider going back there.
126. SAMBO: So what will I do? 127. DIKKO: Let’s just dig a hole, bury the boy, and leave here fast before anyone comes looking for him. 128. SAMBO: You mean run away? We can’t leave him here like this. He was just a harmless young boy. 129. DIKKO: Indeed. He might have been a thief trying to steal one of the
calves. How else will you explain him hiding in the bush at that odd time? Sambo, save your sympathy for yourself.
130. SAMBO: Dikko! 131. DIKKO: Sambo, let’s bury this boy before anyone comes here. It will be our little secret. 132. SAMBO: How can this remain a secret? Someone will definitely discover
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the body sooner or later. 133. DIKKO: Let’s hope later. By then we’ll be long gone. 134. SAMBO: That doesn’t mean they still won’t find out that I did it! 135. DIKKO: How? I won’t tell and I know you won’t. So how will they know? 136. SAMBO: Dikko, I don’t think this is a good plan. I don’t think it’s the right thing to do. 137. DIKKO: Of course it’s the right thing. If I don’t tell and you don’t tell, who
will ever know about it? Come on now. Get a move on. Let’s get this matter over and done with.
138. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP 05 AND UNDER 139. RIBADU: (SIGHS) Sounds like a bad and terrible plan to me. Can Sambo
really trust Dikko? Will they be discovered? We won’t know until next week. But before we go, we have Dr. Yusuf with us in the studio and he’s going to tell us about striga weed – that is, wuta‐wuta. He is going to tell us how it can be controlled. But before then, let’s relax with this wonderful song.
140. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER 141. RIBADU: As if low rainfall and poor soil fertility were not enough to
challenge us in northern Nigeria, these conditions are most often accompanied by another devastating problem, the parasitic striga weed. Let me tell you about this weed which in Hausa we call witch weed or fire because of the way it can sneak into your farm and take over so quickly that you may be taken totally by surprise! It has some pretty flowers but there is nothing pretty about how it behaves around crops of maize, sorghum and millet. And once it finds its way into your soil, it’s hard to get rid of it. (SIGHS) Alright. For those who are new to this program, I am Mallam Ribadu and discussing with me is Dr. Yusuf. He is an agricultural scientist and he will help us understand this striga weed and also maybe how to get rid of it. Welcome, Dr. Yusuf.
142. YUSUF: Thank you Malam Ribadu, I’m always happy to stop by for a chat with you, you know that. (THEY BOTH LAUGH) 143. RIBADU: Dr. Yusuf, for us farmers, once we recognize striga on our
farm, fear comes in because it can infest your entire field of crops and cause your family to become even poorer. It has ruined so many farmers. Tell us why we are facing these threats, please.
144. YUSUF: Very good, Malam Ribadu. First of all I must commend you for
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the wonderful work you are doing, getting important information for farmers and their families on how to adapt to the climate changes.
145. RIBADU: (WAVES IT OFF) Ah! This is not work. I’m enjoying myself so much. You know me. I love to talk … to tell stories. I also just happen to believe that you can still teach an old dog new tricks. I want to know so much still.
146. YUSUF: That’s the spirit. Well, you want us to talk about the striga weed, right? 147. RIBADU: Yes. Where did it come from and why all of a sudden is it everywhere causing such havoc and anxiety? 148. YUSUF: The striga family of weeds and other families such as Alectra are
a major headache for many farmers. They are what we call parasitic weeds, because they feed on the plants that farmers are trying to grow, limiting their yield and sometimes simply killing them. They mostly feed on cereal crops such as pearl millet, sorghum, maize and rice, but also on some varieties of cowpeas.
149. RIBADU: Thanks for this explanation. But I have to ask again: why is it so common nowadays? 150. YUSUF: As you know, with climate change we are experiencing
unpredictable weather, late or sporadic rains and a long hot and dry season. The dry season in particular has a drying effect on the arable land. Combined with over cultivation, this has turned most farms infertile. Now striga weeds are more common in dryer and infertile soils. It is no wonder that this weed is now increasing on much of our farm lands. A good percentage of our farm lands are depleted of moisture and nutrients, especially in the dry season.
151. RIBADU: It is so common; one sees the weed in all the zones of our region. So if your farm is fertile, you may not have striga? 152. YUSUF: That’s right. Fertile lands tend to withstand weeds like striga. But
changes in climate are also making this a new problem for some folks who were not confronted with it before. Did you know that striga seeds can survive in soil for more than 20 years? When a susceptible plant starts growing next to it, the seed germinates on the root of that plant and sucks its nutrients.
153. RIBADU: Oh, how scary! That sounds like a horror story. Then what can farmers do against it? 154. YUSUF: Luckily, there are some ways to cope with it. Some of the
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practices that we have seen before for soil fertility improvement and erosion control can also help us manage striga.
155. RIBADU: Good. But you said there are ways, so there must be more we can do, right? 156. YUSUF: Well there are crop varieties that are resistant to striga, that
won’t let the striga seeds germinate on their roots. But if a farmer cultivates a regular variety that is susceptible, he or she can still trick the striga into germinating by planting another plant that won’t let it grow. Scientists call these plants “false hosts.” They trick the striga into “suicide germinations.” The striga germinates, but can’t attach to the false host plant. Because it can’t feed from the false host, it dies before producing seeds. Plants that can serve as false hosts are usually legumes such as groundnuts, soybeans, and certain resistant varieties of cowpea. Some other plants too cannot be infested by striga because the striga cannot attach to their roots. These include cotton, sesame, sunnhemp and linseed. These plants and false hosts can be planted together with susceptible cereal crops either through intercropping (alternating rows of one and the other) or in rotation. Scientists think that because legumes provide shade and reduce the temperature of the soil, this also helps to reduce striga. They have also found that increasing organic matter in the soil through mulches and cover crops is very helpful in controlling striga. You can also uproot the striga plants before they flower and burn them, but this takes a lot of labour and striga may grow again from seeds that are already in the soil.
157. RIBADU: How interesting! You have spoken about a number of options … which one is best? 158. YUSUF: I would recommend farmers putting all the options on their side.
Using only one of these methods is likely to not be enough. When possible, they should combine crop rotations or intercropping with mulches and cover crops. Cover crops and mulches not only help control striga but also help soils maintain water and fertility. I also recommend the use of striga‐resistant varieties when these are available and appropriate. There are many crops that can be grown with cereal crops to help protect them from striga damage. It's a question of experimenting, seeing what other farmers are doing, and talking to extension agents.
159. RIBADU: I find that’s very good advice. I will tell my fellow farmers and
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herdsmen. Discuss farming issues with other farmers and if that doesn’t help, go and talk to an extension agent. Find a solution. If the drum beats change, you must change your dance steps also. Alright Dr. Yusuf, you’ve really helped to enlighten us today. By God’s grace, we’ll beat striga and kick it out of our farms. Thank you.
160. YUSUF: It’s nothing. I’m happy to visit and chat about farming. Always. 161. RIBADU: Alright, friends. We have to go now, but make sure to tune in
next time. If you have tried any of the ideas from this program, or wish to but need more advice, why don’t you give us a call on ….. Tell your friends and neighbours and let’s meet next time for more stories of our friends in the program, IN KIDIYA CHANZA. Bye bye.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Rebecca Ojedele of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 13 Topic: Integrated Pest management. Ribadu ‐ Narrator Saude Sambo Dorcas Bulus Kallamu Hindatu Extensionist‐ Hajiya Mariam 1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER … ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5
AND UNDER ... 2. NARRATOR (RIBADU): Welcome, my good people, to today’s segment of In Kidiya
Chanza … a drama program about people just like us, men and women dealing with change in a positive way. As usual, I am your friend Ribadu. I am sure you’ve been following my stories so far and also enjoying the characters and situations you’re meeting along the line. In my story today, I am going to tell you more about Dorcas and her husband Bulus. And you’ll come along with me, won’t you, to the Maikano’s home to see how Hindatu is with life back at home. Some people in her home are not so happy about this decision. What will they do? Before we go today, we will get some solutions to a problem that farmers are facing with climate change. So don’t go anywhere ... Quickly call your friends and family to listen…
3. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ... SCENE 1: 4. SFX: COCK CROWS IN THE DISTANCE. SOUND OF SNORING, YAWNING,
WAKING UP, ETC. 5. DORCAS: (TAPPING BULUS) Please wake up. Haba, the walls are almost
cracking because of the rumble of your snoring. Wake up, wake up! 6. BULUS: (SLEEPILY) Woman, won’t you just leave me alone? You know I went
to bed late. 7. DORCAS: There you go … how is that of my making? Please wake up, there is
something important I want us to discuss.
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8. BULUS: What could that be? And why can’t it wait till morning? 9. DORCAS: Well, it’s morning. (PAUSES) I have plans to take Zaharadeen to his
mother in Kakaran Jatau. I have a feeling that she will be staying there to care for her sick father.
10. BULUS: So is that why I must be woken up at this ungodly hour? 11. DORCAS: Which one is the “ungodly hour”? Open your eyes and see if it’s not
morning already. Like I said, I’m taking the boy to his mother. 12. BULUS: Well, it is about time. I tell you, that woman is a just a good‐for‐
nothing mother. She just abandoned her only child, a son for that matter, here since. Now, someone else has to take him to her… Mts! (KISSING HIS TEETH)
13. DORCAS: I beg of you, don’t start your thing this morning. It is too early and you know the son is in the next room and will likely hear what you’re saying.
14. BULUS: Ah ah, what is there to hide? Is it not the truth? Even the poor boy knows!
15. DORCAS: Just mind your mouth this morning. Anyway, are you not going to prepare to go to the farm?
16. BULUS: I will, as you well know. I hope you know that you should not go and stay at Kakaran Jatau to tell stories with Hindatu. And remember, unlike her you are a married woman with responsibilities.
17. DORCAS: (RUMMAGING IN A DRAWER, POLYTHENE BAGS, RUFFLLING, DRAWER PULLS OFF AND FALLS TO THE GROUND). (TALKING TO HERSELF) Ah ah, but I kept it here before going to bed …
18. BULUS: What is the problem with you? 19. DORCAS: Please … did you take any money from this cupboard? 20. BULUS: What money? 21. DORCAS: This is no joke, please. Hindatu left this money to pay the labourers
on our farm. I beg you, Bulus. 22. BULUS: How dare you accuse me of that kind of …? 23. DORCAS: Look, I personally counted the money and placed it in the drawer
myself very late last night before going to bed … And since you came home, there’s been no one else in the room save for the two of us. Please, because of God, give me the money back immediately … the money does not belong to me; it is Hindatu’s.
24. BULUS: Enmmm … een … 25. DORCAS: Honestly, I am going to shout‐o. I swear to God, Bulus, if you don’t
hand it over, I’ll gather people for you this morning including the children …
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26. BULUS: Haba, it has not come to that yet. I actually borrowed it so that I could buy chemicals and insecticides for the pests on the maize and cowpea crops.
27. DORCAS: (SARCASTICALLY) I knew of the striga weed problem. When did the pests start their own? Anyway, you need to sort out yourself fast. I want the money back. If not, I will shout for our children and neighbours to hear what a wretched man you are.
28. BULUS: So what do you think I should do now that the entire maize crop will likely fail?
29. DORCAS: Instead of speeding around Kaworana with your motorbike, showing off your new girlfriend, you might consider using it for commercial transport and save up the money you receive as fares. In a few days, you would have enough money to buy the pesticides.
SCENE 2 30. SFX: HINDATU HUMMING A SONG AND SWEEPING. SOUND OF
ARRANGING PLATES AND DRAGGING OF TABLE INTO PLACE, ETC. 31. KALLAMU: (OFF MIC. A CALL TOWARDS THE DOOR) Salam u alekun! Peace be
upon this house. Anybody in? I greet you oo. 32. HINDATU: Amin Alekun salam. Ah, it’s you. Mallam Kallamu, welcome. 33. KALLAMU: Thank you very much. You mean you are still around? I thought you
went back to your station. 34. HINDATU: Not yet. I am still around. 35. KALLAMU: So when are you going back? 36. HINDATU: Mallam Kallamu, are you eager to see me leave this town too soon?
The way you are asking looks to me as if you want me to leave town fast.
37. KALLAMU: Haba Hindatu, how can you say that? In fact, it is more pleasure to have you around the village. You don’t know what your presence adds here. You add colour to the environment.
38. HINDATU: Please, don’t flatter me. Anyway, for your information, I am not going back to Kaworana. I have come back to stay here and mind the family.
39. KALLAMU: What? How can you leave the comfort of your job and your life out there? Is the situation here not going to be too difficult for you?
40. HINDATU: Well, I have made up my mind about that. In fact, I have sent to my friend Dorcas to bring back my son Zaharadeen along with some of my property.
41. KALLAMU: You seem really determined then. Are you sure you can cope?
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42. HINDATU: You see, sometimes I get so frustrated and would like the comfort of my job. But who will take care of the family?
43. KALLAMU: What about Tanko? 44. HINDATU: Well, Tanko has not been doing such a good job, has he? He
couldn’t even account for the monies realized from the sale of the small harvest they got. You were around, Mallam Kallamu; you’ve seen the mismanagement, haven’t you?
45. KALLAMU: But, how are you going to cope? I really think you need finances if you have to hire labourers, buy seeds and other inputs for your family’s farm.
46. HINDATU: That’s the obvious truth. I know it is difficult, but I have some small savings. My friend will also bring some money for me. I have plans to use what I should have used to rent an apartment, as now I don’t have to rent after all.
47. KALLAMU: (WITH A SIGH OF RELIEF, LAUGHS) You know something? 48. HINDATU: What? 49. KALLAMU: (IN A CALM AND ROMANTIC VOICE) All you need now is a man like
me who understands the workings of the farm to be by your side. 50. HINDATU: (LAUGHS) You may not be wrong after all … wait a minute, did you
say a man like you? Please, stop your funny talk. 51. KALLAMU: You think this is funny? It’s more than that, please. 52. HINDATU: Now, if you are serious, let us face it. Are you really proposing or
just making fun? 53. KALLAMU: (GETTING MORE ROMANTIC) Why not, Hindatu? Indeed I am serious. 54. HINDATU: (MAKING LIGHT OF IT) Mallam Kallamu, please don’t talk about
marriage between us. Don’t you see I have enough on my plate? SCENE 3 SAUDE AND SAMBO 55. SFX: SLIGHT KNOCK ON THE DOOR 56. SAMBO: Peace be upon this house. 57. SAUDE: (SURPRISED BUT HAPPY) Ah‐ah‐ah! Sambo, is this your face?
Welcome, my husband. 58. SAMBO: Thank you, Saude. 59. SAUDE: (LOVINGLY) You know something, Sambo? 60. SAMBO: What? 61. SAUDE: It is you who brought good luck with you because it only started to
rain last night. We had the biggest thunderstorm you can ever imagine.
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62. SAMBO: I and the cattle were caught in it. Well, we thank God for his compassion. Ah, the rain is much.
63. SAUDE: Yes, you are all soaked. Take off your wet things and prepare to take your bath.
64. SAMBO: What? In weather like this? 65. SAUDE: As if I knew you were on your way, there is water boiling already on
the fire. 66. SAMBO: How lucky then. My dear, there was a big flood on the way. I must
say that luck was on my side that none of my cows drowned. 67. SAUDE: May Allah be praised. 68. SAMBO: What about Indo, my daughter? 69. SAUDE: Indo is in the back room with your mother. 70. SAMBO: (SURPRISED) Mother? What is my mother doing in our room? 71. SAUDE: You mean you did not get the hint of what the sand dunes have
done to us in this community? Ah, both your parents had to move in with us because their house is covered by the sand dunes. I gave them our room.
72. SAMBO: That is terrible. I noticed that the village looks different somehow, like some of the walls have collapsed.
73. SAUDE: It was terrible. On that day, a sandstorm hit our village and several homesteads and farmlands and wells were completely covered.
74. SAMBO: So bad? 75. SAUDE: Yes. So many families have had to relocate. My friend Laila’s family
moved to Dogon Jimeta because their compound and houses were covered by the sand dunes.
76. SAMBO: In all, we still thank God. But something has to be done to avert reoccurrence of such damage to our own homes and property in the future.
77. SAUDE: So we are going to stay on here? 78. SAMBO: Why? Do you think we should move too? 79. SAUDE: Well, people are saying there is no stopping the dunes once they
start advancing, and it’s only a matter of time before they take over the entire village.
80. SAMBO: There must be something we can do to stop it. Let us consider it well before making decisions. You know moving to an entirely new location is not always a good thing.
81. SAUDE: How do you mean? 82. SAMBO: You were either not born or too little to remember, but everyone in
this village moved here from our previous village.
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83. SAUDE: Yes, I’ve heard stories of the land of plenty that they were forced to leave because the desert came and took over the land.
84. SAMBO: It was not easy to trek all those weeks until we found this place. Like I’m saying, let us think well first, Saude.
85. SAUDE: You’re right. Anyway, you just got here. (PRETENDS ANNOYANCE) So, what kept you so long? We were missing you so bad.
86. SAMBO: You see, I was trying not to overstress the cows. We have to trek at a leisurely pace so that the cows don’t lose too much weight.
87. SAUDE: (TEASING) That does not sound convincing to me oo … 88. SAMBO: How do you mean now? 89. SAUDE: The story in the village is that you stayed back around Kaworana to
help get Dikko out of trouble. Tell me, why would you put yourself out for Dikko of all people? Can you imagine? After all the insults and trouble we have endured from him.
90. SAMBO: (PACIFYING HER) See, my dear, what I did for Dikko is what I would expect anyone else to do for me if I were the one in trouble.
91. SAUDE: That’s your own view. As for me, Dikko deserves what he got. In fact, he had it coming for a long time. Was he in any way grateful for the help?
92. SAMBO: (NOT CONVINCING ENOUGH) Emm … Eennn, yes indeed, Dikko showed gratitude.
93. SAUDE: Well, I’ll see how the left‐handed will learn to be used to being right‐handed all of a sudden. We shall see how long before he shows his usual unreasonable behaviour again.
94. SAMBO: (QUICKLY CHANGING THE SUBJECT) My dear, we’ve just been talking. Are you not happy to see me back? Maybe you want me to go back on the trail.
95. SAUDE: (JOKING) Ok, go now. In this weather? Only know that Indo and I will go with you this time!
SCENE 4 96. SFX: SOUND OF DISHES BEING CLEARED IN A METAL TRAY AFTER A
MEAL 97. HINDATU: Dorcas, let me go and bring more taliya (noodles) for you, yes? 98. DORCAS: (FIRMLY) No, Hindatu. I’m nearly bursting as it is. 99. HINDATU: You didn’t even eat much. Ehn, Dorcas ... You are looking so fine. I
hope Bulus appreciates it? 100. DORCAS: Please, let me relish this delicious food we just ate before you take
me back to my stress at home.
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101. HINDATU: Haba (Come on now), Dorcas, which food are you calling delicious? This quick thing I just threw together?
102. DORCAS: Is there anything that you cook that will not taste different from the way others do it? I think you have a gift in the art of cooking.
102. HINDATU: You have come with your sweet mouth as usual. Well, I am just too happy that you are here in flesh and blood.
103. DORCAS: I really missed you, my friend. I am only disturbed that you’re not coming back to Kaworana. What do you want me to do in that village without you, Hindatu? I have no real friends there and you also know how Bulus is playing around with women like a fool.
104. HINDATU: Is he still shacking up with Rakiya? 105. DORCAS: Well, these days he is home and going to the farm every day,
weeding and applying manure. 106. HINDATU: Eenhn … you don’t mean it … that is good news. 107. DORCAS: Not only that, it appears that the hyena has turned him down. Of
course, after I put the fear of God in her. (VOICES OF CHILDREN FROM AFAR) I am happy for Zaharadeen’s sake. Just listen to his happy voice laughing.
108. HINDATU: Ah, that one, he has many cousins who can be playmates to him here.
109. DORCAS: I am really happy for him. 110. HINDATU: So, what is happening with our farm? 111. DORCAS: It is going well, only that Bulus took our money for labourers while I
was asleep and he has refused to give it back to me. 112. HINDATU: Ah! Dorcas … you and Bulus again? 113. DORCAS: He insists that he needs it to buy insecticides and herbicides to
attack striga weed (wuta‐wuta) and stem‐borers that are causing his maize crop to die.
114. HINDATU: What? You mean striga infestation has invaded his farm. That is really bad news. You see, once that infection catches on a farm, it’s hard to get rid of it.
115. DORCAS: Well, I plan to go to the ADP (or Agriculture) office to seek the advice of the agric staff there on how to deal with both striga and pests.
116. HINDATU: Good idea. But what are you going to do now that Bulus has taken the money? How will we pay the workers?
117. DORCAS: Well, Bulus thinks he is wise. I only diverted his attention from the main thing because he pestered me daily until I thought I would go
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mad, may God forbid. I still have most of the money. I actually hid it under the bed.
118, HINDATU: Amaa … you, you, Dorcas … 119. DORCAS: Not to even worry, I will surely make him pay for what he took
because he has agreed to use his motorbike for transportation and I am keeping my eyes sharp‐sharp to collect his daily takings from him.
120. HINDATU: (SKEPTICAL) Hmn ... You and your Bulus! Why don’t you just open a bank account to keep your money safe?
121. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND FADE UNDER 122. RIBADU (NARRATOR): My good friends, I am sure you have followed the stories so
far with keen interest. You have heard Dorcas and her husband Bulus. It seems there’s anxiety over pests, a situation that is difficult to tackle without adequate money and information. Hmnnn … but come please, what is Kallamu up to with a back hand proposal to Hindatu? Is he serious? We just have to wait to find out what will happen next. Hmn! Sambo has returned home to disaster. The sand dunes have spread and covered a good portion of Dogon Alheri and villagers are relocating. What will happen next? It is not all about stories though. Let’s see if we can find a solution to the troubling pest problem in Bulus’ maize farm. Hajiya Dr. Mariam and I will have a chat about that. But first relax with this music.
123. MUSIC: HAUSA MUSIC UP 2.00 AND FADE UNDER … 124. RIBADU: Oh goodness! That was a mellow sound. Well listeners, you heard
Bulus talk about the pests eating up his maize crop. This is a serious problem for farmers! Hajiya Dr. Mariam, welcome to our program In Kidiya Chanza. We hope that you will be able to shed light on the nature of some of these pest‐related problems and educate us on what to do about them. Once again you’re welcome, Hajiya.
125. H. MARIAM: Thank you very much, Mallam Ribadu. It’s always a pleasure to come to the program. Hello, listeners.
126. RIBADU: Hajiya Mariam, I want us to discuss insects and pests because many farmers are suffering the devastation caused by pests.
127. H. MARIAM: I know. I have seen firsthand how pests can destroy a whole farm and cause huge losses in crops. Cowpea especially is very easily attacked by insect pests like legume pod borer (Maruca vitrata). Apart from insect pests, cowpea is also often attacked by a number of diseases, spread by bacteria and viruses. The most common for
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cowpeas are bacteria blight, Septoria and scab. Many cereal farmers know the devastation caused by stem borers, especially in maize. To ensure the prevention of pests or at least control their numbers, we normally advise integrated pest management.
128. RIBADU: Sorry, but you must break this down further for us to understand you. 129. H. MARIAM: No problem. IPM or integrated pest management is how you can
control pests on your farm or in your grain store using a variety of methods that work together to ensure success. These include: mechanical or physical devices, genetic, biological, and cultural management, and chemical management. These methods are done in three stages: prevention, observation, and intervention.
130. RIBADU: Okay, how does one go about each of the stages you mentioned, starting with prevention? 131. H. MARIAM: There are several ways. A farmer may choose one or a
combination of methods to prevent pest infestation in the first place. The first method is to be vigilant and get resistant crop varieties that can resist the main pest or disease in your locality. Use of healthy seeds from healthy plants or seed bought from trusted sources is also an advantage. You see, logically, a healthy woman will always give birth to healthy children who can resist disease easily. Plants are the same.
132. RIBADU: (LAUGHS) But of course! Where can one get these resistant seeds, Hajiya? 133. H. MARIAM: They are available at agricultural institutions, offices and trusted sales outlets. Ask fellow farmers or call the number supplied at the end of this program for more information. 134. RIBADU: Very good, Hajiya. Please go on. 135. H. MARIAM: We now know that with climate change, many pests and diseases are very rampant, encouraged by the high temperatures. Many pests, just like many weeds, tend to
multiply on infertile soils. Therefore, increasing the organic content of soil can be a good prevention scheme. So I would advise farmers to apply organic matter. Incorporating compost and green manure into the soil and adding mulch to the surface of the soil can have a very positive effect against the development or pests and disease. Because higher levels of organic matter in the soil make crop plants healthier and better able to withstand pests and disease.
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136. RIBADU: Prevention is best, of course. But what advice do you have for those who are already in trouble with pests? For them it has gone beyond prevention.
137. H. MARIAM: Okay. Now going on to observation. Really, observation doesn’t only come after prevention. All farmers should walk their
fields and observe the level of pest damage. We should all be vigilant and look at our growing plants. We all know what a healthy plant looks like, so if you notice spots, holes or a funny‐looking colour on the leaves, you should investigate to see if there are insects or disease present. Larvae or little beetles can sometimes be seen with the naked eye behind the leaves or encrusted on the stems.
138. RIBADU: I am following you, Hajia. So what next? Intervention? 139. H. MARIAM: Once you observe that your crops have been infested, depending on
the pest and crop, you may need to take immediate action to get rid of pests because it may not take that long before the
problem spreads from even one plant to every single one and cause crop failure.
140. RIBADU: What actions would you recommend we take at this stage when we observe we have pests?
141. H. MARIAM: I would first of all recommend some practical methods of dealing with pests and diseases that can reduce or even eliminate the use of expensive and sometimes toxic pesticides which are now known to have adverse effects on health and the environment 142. RIBADU: Listeners, better be attentive to learn something new – or confirm what you know about already. 143. H. MARIAM: Do the obvious first. In small gardens, you can hand‐pick and
destroy larger pests. Start by checking the leaves and soil around your crops and pick and destroy as many of the insects and their larvae as you can see.
144. RIBADU: Yes. Indeed, that is logical. Hand‐picking and destroying. (SIGHS) But you know a farmer’s work is hard. This is another
laborious work on the farm. 145. H. MARIAM: That is true. But it is necessary unless you want to see your whole work destroyed. Another feasible way of controlling
insect pests is by planting what we call diversion or trap plants at the edge of your field or around your crops.
146. RIBADU: Ehn? Come again. Trap plants? Let me guess … they trap the pests?
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147. H.MARIAM: Exactly. These are plants that will attract the insect pests that would have invaded your crops. Except that now they find these other plants more attractive and therefore let your crops alone. Plant rows of such plants around your crops to trap the pests. Some of these trap plants are good fodder plants (food for your livestock) as well, so there’s a double benefit. For example, Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) and Sudan grass (Sorghum bicolor subsp. drummondii and sudanense). Both Napier and Sudan grass have their own defense against crop borers. Stem borers lay their eggs in this grass but are not able to complete their life cycles. Other trap crops are sunflowers, finger millet and local plants that bloom and bear fruit. These attract birds and insects which will divert pests away from the main crop.
148. RIBADU: What an interesting concept. You set a trap for pests by planting some other plants to fool them. I like the idea a lot. It really
works? 149. H. MARIAM: Yes, it does as part of a group of actions you should take to attack pest problems on your farm. One final caution about
trap crops: Ensure that your trap crop is treated or removed from the field while the pest is on it, or it may later migrate to the crop.
150. RIBADU: I think we get that. Anything else? 151. H. MARIAM: I normally advise farmers to plant a variety of crops on their land.
Then, even if one kind is infested, others may be resistant and survive the attack. Also to rotate crops grown on your land. If you plant the same crop on the same piece of land year after year, the pests, diseases and weeds that attack the crop will multiply. Try and grow a different crop each season.
152. RIBADU: What would you suggest? 153. H. MARIAM: Okay. Say you planted maize last year … this year, plant legumes
such as cowpeas or soya or groundnuts. Intercropping cereal with legumes can also help to reduce the number of pests and diseases because the pests usually attack different kinds of crops, you see?
154. RIBADU: Yes, I see. This is very useful information. And what other kinds of intervention can we use?
155. H. MARIAM: Do you know, Mallam, that there are botanical insect repellents? 156. RIBADU: (EXCITED) As a matter of fact I do. We use pepper in sacks of grains
and cowpeas so that insects and weevils won’t go in there to destroy it.
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157. H. MARIAM: That’s right. These are traditional methods that work well to curtail pests. Chili pepper (Bàrkòònóó in Hausa) and Ocimum suave
(Ɗâɗɗóóyà in Hausa) as well as the leaves of the papaya (paw‐paw) plant and neem tree are all effective insecticides that can actually repel insects and other pests. Mash the leaves and make into solutions to spray or water on the plant. These natural repellents also prevent pests from attacking crops stored after the harvest. Ashes, sawdust and the leaves or fruit of many different plants can be mixed with the produce to protect it from disease and pests during storage.
158. RIBADU: Hajiya, this is really good news for me and our listeners. If only Kallamu knew about this, he would still have his cowpeas.
159. H. MARIAM: (LAUGHS) This is true. Poor man. 160. RIBADU: In our story, Bulus is constantly talking about getting money to
purchase pesticides. Is there any occasion when that might be an option? I mean chemicals.
161. H. MARIAM: That’s a good question. As a last resort, especially when dealing with an outbreak of pests or diseases affecting the entire farm or several farms in the same area, it might be necessary to treat the outbreak with chemical pesticides. But these can have negative side effects on human health when improperly handled.
162. RIBADU: I expect for that, one should consult an expert in order to know how to handle them.
163. H. MARIAM: Definitely. These chemicals have to be carefully applied. An expert should do it for you or explain the steps on how to
carefully do it. You must wear protective clothing and cover your mouth and nose. Ensure there are no children or animals or even other people not covering their eyes, nose and mouth hanging around at the time. Wash your hands thoroughly after touching the chemicals. Dispose of the empty cans and bottles very carefully. Please don’t re‐use them to store water or food as the chemicals they once contained are quite poisonous.
164. RIBADU: Kai! Hajiya. This has been very enlightening. Thank you so much. 165. H. MARIAM: It is my pleasure as usual to come and chat with you. And let me tell you, I love your stories in the drama. 166. RIBADU: Really? Who is your favourite person? 167. H. MARIAM: Ehm, let me see … I think I like Kallamu because he makes me laugh.
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168. RIBADU: That is interesting. You hear that, friends? Who is your favourite person? Also, who do you dislike? Send us a text message. You may win a prize if we like your contribution. And so, listeners, we come to the end of today’s segment. There is hope for us farmers if we follow some of these simple methods that are likely to cost us less. Please share this information with your fellow farmers. I will be here next time to continue with the stories and information. Meanwhile, if you need more information about today’s topic, call or text your message to …….. Call your friends and neighbours to join us next time on In Kidiya Chanza…. Bye bye.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Dr. Martins Ayegba of Drama and Development Communication at the Ahmadu Bello University, Samaru, Zaria. This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 14
TOPIC – Adapting to Climate Change (recap)
Characters
Narrator ‐ Ribadu Hindatu Kallamu Altine Ngozi Sambo Saude Climate Change expert (Yusuf)
1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER … 2. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5
AND UNDER ... 3. NARRATOR (RIBADU): WELCOME, FRIENDS, TO TODAY’S SEGMENT OF IN KIDIYA
CHANZA … A DRAMA PROGRAM ABOUT PEOPLE JUST LIKE US, MEN AND WOMEN DEALING WITH CHANGE IN A POSITIVE WAY. MY NAME IS RIBADU AND I’M A FULANI HERDSMAN LIKE MY FATHER BEFORE ME. FOR SOME WEEKS NOW, WE’VE BEEN DISCUSSING CLIMATE CHANGE, THE EFFECTS AND THE CHALLENGES PEOPLE LIKE YOU AND ME HAVE BEEN FACING AS A RESULT OF CLIMATE CHANGE. I’M SURE YOU ALL HAVE LEARNT QUITE A LOT IN THE LAST 13 WEEKS. TODAY, AS WE DO EVERY WEEK, WE ARE GOING TO SEE HOW OUR FRIENDS IN THE DRAMA ARE COPING WITH CHANGES IN THE CLIMATE. ALSO TODAY, OUR CLIMATE CHANGE EXPERT WILL BE HERE TO GIVE US IMPORTANT TIPS THAT WILL BE OF GREAT BENEFIT TO US. BEFORE WE DO THIS, LET’S SEE WHAT OUR FRIENDS IN THE DRAMA ARE UP TO.
4. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ... SCENE 1: 5. SFX: DISTANT SOUND OF AMBULANCE AND VOICES, HOSPITAL 6. KALLAMU: (CALLS OUT EXCITEDLY) Hindatu, Hindatu!!
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7. HINDATU: Ahh, Alhaji Kallamu. Salaam Aleikun. 8. KALLAMU: Salaam Aleikun, Hindatu. 9. HINDATU: Alhaji Kallamu, what are you doing here in the hospital? Is anyone
ill? 10. KALLAMU: Hindatu, why do you ask a question like that? I’m here to see your
father, same as you. How is he doing? Is he getting better? 11. HINDATU: That’s so thoughtful of you,Kallamu. I’m sorry for asking. It’s just
that I’ve never met you here so it didn’t occur to me that you visit him too.
12. KALLAMU: Of course I visit him often. Our paths just haven’t crossed until now. Alhaji Maikano is my good friend.I always have to be there for him and his family in these trying times. So have you seen him already or are you just getting here?
13. HINDATU: I’m on my way out. I brought him his food. He’s been complaining about the hospital food.
14. KALLAMU: (CHUCKLES) I can bet there’s nothing wrong with the hospital food. My friend just wants to see you as often as possible and also eat your deliciously prepared food as much as he can. Hope he can eat well now though?
15. HINDATU: Insha Allah, he’s getting better. The doctors say that the fact that he is old makes him less responsive to treatment; you know his immune system is not as strong as it used to be.
16. KALLAMU: (JOKINGLY) Old? My friend is not old oh! Put a woman with him for one night and let her be the judge of whether he is old or not.
17. HINDATU: (CHUCKLES SOFTLY) Alhaji Kallamu, you shouldn’t be sharing such jokes with me.
18. KALLAMU: Sorry Hindatu, I didn’t mean to offend you. 19. HINDATU: No offense taken. I just want him to get well on time. There’s so
much to do back home and on the farm. So many decisions to be made and I need his wisdom and advice.
20. KALLAMU: Isn’t Tanko supposed to be assisting you? 21. HINDATU: Tanko? But you know Tanko now! Isn’t he the same person that
allowed my father’s condition to become this bad? If he had
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brought him to the hospital early enough, my father would have been treated on time.
22. KALLAMU: Let’s not apportion blame at this time, Hindatu. Let’s just continue to pray for Alhaji’s recovery.
23. HINDATU: Well, that’s all we can do at this time. I need to get back home. I still have to be on the farm today.
24. KALLAMU: Hmmm. You are such a hardworker Hindatu. You take care of your father, the entire household, the farm … are you even real?
25. HINDATU: (LAUGHS) Alhaji Kallamu, you are funny. I’m here to take care of my father and his business while he is away and that’s exactly what I’m doing.
26. KALLAMU: And who will take care of you while you are busy taking care of others?
27. HINDATU: I don’t need taking care of, Kallamu. 28. KALLAMU: But you do. We all do. You are a brilliant, hardworking, intelligent,
responsible, caring woman. You have it all except a loving man. 29. HINDATU: Have you forgotten that I have a man in Kaworana? 30. KALLAMU: What’s his name oh? Turaki! Yes, Turaki! That one is not a man. We
all heard how he treated you and your son and why you eventually left him.
31. HINDATU: Okay, if you know all that then you’ll understand that I’m better off single.
32. KALLAMU: I don’t agree. If you marry me, I’ll show what a real man is supposed to be like.
33. HINDATU: Kallamu, thanks for the marriage offer but no. I’m not interested in marriage at this time. Definitely not to you and not to anyone else. I have so much happening around me right now and I have a son to take care of. I don’t need anymore.
34. KALLAMU: I will only be there to help ease your burden, Hindatu. 35. HINDATU: Thank you very much, Kallamu. But I really have to leave now. I still
have to get to the farm today 36. KALLAMU: Hindatu, just think about it okay? 37. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO
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SCENE 2 38. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES AS ALTINE ENTERS OC’S HOUSE 39. ALTINE: Good morning, Ngozi. 40. NGOZI: Ah, Altine! Welcome. How are you? 41. ALTINE: Very fine, thank you. How are my other senior wives? 42. NGOZI: Dije, you mean? She is fine. We are all fine. So who is the lady that
came with you? I saw you both from the window. 43. ALTINE: Oh, Suweba! She is my woman servant. I told her to wait outside for
me. 44. NGOZI: Okay, I see. So since your marriage to our husband, we haven’t been
seeing much of you. Hope all is well? 45. ALTINE: All is very well, Ngozi. It’s just that I have so many things doing in
town that I have to attend to 46. NGOZI: I see. You still do all those political things, right? 47. ALTINE: Yes oh! And since elections are around the corner, I get busier
everyday. 48. NGOZI: Enh enh? Does that mean you won’t be staying here at all? 49. ALTINE: I’ve discussed with OC and we’ve both decided it’s best if I stay in
town and attend to business. Moreover, I also prefer to be far away from your junior wife.
50. NGOZI: Dije? What’s the matter with Dije? 51. ALTINE: Ngozi, you are asking like you don’t know what a nag she is. She is
so mean all the time. 52. NGOZI: Altine, you married her husband. You should understand that she
will be a little pissed. 53. ALTINE: But OC is your husband too. And you are even the first wife. Still you
are gracious about the entire situation. But she behaves like she will be the first woman whose husband will get married to someone else.
54. NGOZI: Anyway, both of you should take it easy. 55. ALTINE: I’m taking it easy. I’m too cultured and civilized to start any quarrel
with her. 56. NGOZI: Okay. Like I said earlier, both of you should take it easy.
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57. ALTINE: Thank you, Ngozi, for your understanding. I need a favour from you though!
58. NGOZI: What is it? 59. ALTINE: I know I have responsibilities as a wife. And I really want to be a
part of this household but I can’t do that from the town. 60. NGOZI: Okay, so what do you want to do about that? 61. ALTINE: I’m hoping my woman servant Suweba can stay here and take care
of my own share of the household chores in my absence. 62. NGOZI: I see. Have you discussed this arrangement with OC our husband? 63. ALTINE: Yes I have, and he doesn’t mind since he is mostly in the town
house with me anyway. 64. NGOZI: Since our husband has approved of her staying here, who am I to
stop her? I don’t have a problem with the arrangement. Just show her what she needs to do around here.
65. ALTINE: Thank you so much, Ngozi. I know I can always depend on you 66. NGOZI: There’s no problem, Altine. Let me be on my way. My customers
must be waiting for me in the shop. 67. ALTINE: Thank you, Ngozi. I’ll be coming from time to time to visit and to
ensure that she is doing what she needs to do. 68. NGOZI: Okay, no problem. Show her around. Let me be on my way. 69. ALTINE: Thank you, Ngozi. (CALLS OUT) Suweba! Suweba!! 70. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 71. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES AS SAMBO ENTERS 72. SAUDE: Sambo, what took you so long? I’ve been worried. 73. SAMBO: Saude my wife, you worry too much. 74. SAUDE: Why won’t I be worried? I just got you back after such a long trip
you took with your herd. Now you’re back and you took the whole day off.
75. SAMBO: Sorry Saude. I had to go round the village to see how bad the effect of the sandstorms have been.
76. SAUDE: Sandstorms? That was weeks ago. Now it’s the floods. I don’t know what we’ve done to offend the gods.
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77. SAMBO: And I noticed that a lot of houses have been destroyed. Farms have been washed away by the floods. I didn’t know it was this bad.
78. SAUDE: Sambo, it’s even worse than you think. A lot of people have lost all their belongings, homes, farms. That’s why many people have relocated to Dogon Gimeta. I think we should go too.
79. SAMBO: There’s no reason to leave. At least we are not as badly affected. We still have a roof over our heads. Why do we need to go and start afresh in another village?
80. SAUDE: But most of our friends have left, Sambo. 81. SAMBO: And is that reason enough to move? We should make the best of
the situation. What if something worse happens in Dogon Gimeta? Will we keep running? Where? For how long?
82. SAUDE: I’m just saying ... 83. SAMBO: (INTERRUPTS) Saude, we’ve had this conversation countless times.
We are not moving. We are staying here. 84. SAUDE: Okay,I’ve heard you my husband. But what if the sandstorms come
again? 85. SAMBO: We’ll be prepared. 86. SAUDE: How? 87. SAMBO: We plant trees. Saude, from my travels as a herdsman, I’ve noticed
that villages that have lots of trees are better protected from all these disasters.
88. SAUDE: So you want to plant trees in the entire village? 89. SAMBO: No, I’ll just plant trees round our house and farm. This will act as a
windbreak. They won’t protect us against big sandstorms, but the trees will reduce the impact of the smaller sandstorms.
90. SAUDE: Are you sure that’s a good plan? 91. SAMBO: I’m very sure and I’ll go to the agric office tomorrow to buy the
seedlings I need for the trees. Of course, it will take some years before it has any impact, so we should get started planting right away.
92. SAUDE: What about the flash floods? What will we do about that? 93. SAMBO: I don’t know about that yet! But I’ll ask them at the agric office. I’m
sure that they will have suggestions that we can try.
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94. SAUDE: I pray this works. 95. SAMBO: It will. I’m very sure of it. I think this is one of the outcomes of the
change we’ve been experiencing in the climate. We have to learn to live with it, not run away
96. SAUDE: I have heard you. Come and have your meal. Tomorrow we can start planting your trees
97. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 4 98. SFX: SOUND OF SEWING MACHINE RUNNING. DISTANT VOICES 99. HINDATU: Madam Ngozi, good afternoon! 100. NGOZI: (EXCLAIMS) Hindatu! What a pleasant surprise! 101. HINDATU: How is business? And the family? 102. NGOZI: We are managing. How are you? I thought you would have gone
back to Kaworana by now. 103. HINDATU: I’m not going back. I’m staying here to take care of my father and
the farm needs my attention. 104. NGOZI: I have heard about all the good work you’ve accomplished on that
farm. But don’t you miss your good job in Kaworana? 105. HINDATU: I miss it, but nothing is taking me back there. My life is here now. 106. NGOZI: So what will you be doing here? 107. HINDATU: Ngozi, there’s a lot to do. My father’s health still needs a lot of
attention and we need to pay hospital bills. So I have to intensify my efforts on the farm so that the proceeds can take care of the household and still pay bills.
108. NGOZI: Hindatu, you are really trying oh. I wonder how you can do so much in such little time.
109. HINDATU: It hasn’t been easy, but we thank God. There’s actually something I want to discuss with you.
110. NGOZI: Hope there’s no problem? 111. HINDATU: No problem at all. I’m actually thinking of starting a women farmers’
association. 112. NGOZI: Enh enh? What will such association be about?
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113. HINDATU: It’s going to be a group of women who own or run a farm, either big or small. I think the change in our climate has changed a lot of things and we all need to be constantly informed so that we can adapt to the changes smoothly.
114. NGOZI: I think it is a good idea. What I’m concerned about though is if you think this can work here in the north. Considering the position of women.
115. HINDATU: Oh it can work alright. There are communities that already have such association. My friend Dorcas in Kaworana belongs to such a group and she has testified to how helpful the association has been.
116. NGOZI: So what benefit will the women enjoy in such an association? 117. HINDATU: First, they’ll get up‐to‐date information on how to make the best of
their farms despite the climate change. Also, there’ll be small loans made available to the women. And most importantly, all the members will take turns working on each other’s farm to help reduce labour costs.
118. NGOZI: Sounds good to me. But you will have to convince the husbands to let their wives join.
119. HINDATU: I’m hoping to start with a few women so that when they see the benefits, they can tell other women.
120. NGOZI: I think that’s a brilliant way to go about it. You know what, I’ll tell my junior wives about it and other women farmers I know in the village, because I am not a farmer.
121. HINDATU: You don’t have to own a big farm to be a farmer. It might just be a kitchen garden you own. You still need all the knowledge you can acquire.
122. NGOZI: Okay. I love the idea but I also think getting women to join the association will require more work than you are anticipating.
123. HINDATU: Well, I want to give it a try first and see how well it works. But I firmly believe that the association will be highly beneficial to everyone involved.
124. NGOZI: Talking about loans, where will you get money from?
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125. HINDATU: Ngozi, I’m hoping that in every meeting, we’ll make small contributions and the money will be made available to all the women when needed.
126. NGOZI: You have it all figured out, enh? Hindatu? 127. HINDATU: Not fully. But I’m also borrowing ideas from my friend Dorcas’
association in Kaworana. 128. NGOZI: Okay Hindatu, I’ll do my best to assist you in this. At least I have a
good network of women around here who are my customers and friends.
129. HINDATU: I know. That’s why I came to you in the first place. Anyway, let me be on my way. Thanks a lot.
130. NGOZI: No problem. God go with you. 131. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO 132. NARRATOR RIBADU: It’s still your favorite agric program In Kidiya Chanza … and I
am still your host, Ribadu. The program is getting hotter and better each week. Hindatu is really integrating herself in Kakaran Jatau and she has such brilliant ideas. In weeks to come, we’ll see how her ideas are able to improve agricultural conditions in her community. Also, it’s like Kallamu wants another wife! (CHUCKLES) And he seems to be putting a lot of pressure on Hindatu. Will she give in? You have to keep listening to this program to find out. This week, we have our climate change expert Mallaam Yusuf in the studio. And there’s so much for us to learn from him. Before we go on, let’s listen to this beautiful song.
133. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER ... 134. RIBADU: Welcome back, friends. It’s still In Kidiya Chanza … and with me here
is Mallaam Yusuf from the agric office. Welcome to the show once again, Malaam.
135. YUSUF: Thank you very much, Ribadu. You know it’s always a pleasure to be here.
136. RIBADU: Thanks for always indulging us and coming here anytime we call on you.
137. YUSUF: You are welcome, Ribadu. It gives me so much pleasure to be able to help my friends out there.
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138. RIBADU: This week, we have decided to recap a topic we’ve treated before. In fact, it is the very first topic we talked about on this show.
139. YUSUF: Okay Ribadu, since I was the first expert you had on the show, I think the topic has something to do about climate change impacts.
140. RIBADU: You are very right, Yusuf. We think it’s imperative to remind our farmers from all over northern Nigeria the general impacts of climate change and how they can adapt to these changes.
141. YUSUF: I think that’s a good idea, Ribadu. This time though, I think we’ll be very specific as to the solution we proffer. Because from the drama, I heard that different people have different agricultural and climatic issues.
142. RIBADU: Yes they do, and we’ll get to that shortly. For example, in the Sahel region, they’ve been experiencing flash floods and sandstorms. People like Sambo need urgent solutions and I hope we’ll find answers for them.
143. YUSUF: I hope so too. 144. RIBADU: Okay Yusuf, we all know that we’ve been affected by this climate
change one way or the other. How do you think food production in Nigeria has been affected?
145. YUSUF: First and very important is the increase in the frequency of extreme weather conditions such as floods, drought and storms. When it’s hot, it’s very hot and when it’s dry, it’s extremely so.
146. RIBADU: And increased droughts can definitely reduce food production, right?
147. YUSUF: Very correct. This is also due to increases in some pests and diseases that come with drought.
148. RIBADU: So what can farmers do to ensure that they operate maximally? 149. YUSUF: The most they can do is to adapt to the changes in the climate and
try to make the best of it. The solutions I’ll be recommending are the same ones we’ve been discussing over these past few weeks.
150. RIBADU: Okay, let’s be specific now like you suggested earlier. Our friend Sambo lives in Dogon Alheri and that area is very vulnerable to floods and stroms. What do you think he should do?
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151. YUSUF: Ribadu, from what I heard, Sambo is a very smart young man. The first thing I’ll recommend is actually what he is planning. That is plant trees to make a shelterbelt.
152. RIBADU: What kind of trees should Sambo choose for a shelterbelt? 153. YUSUF: Well, there are several criteria that are important. Of course, the
trees should establish quickly – that’s critical. Also, it’s best if they also produce some livestock feed and firewood. And of course, for a shelterbelt, they must shelter the crops very efficiently.
154. RIBADU: What kind of tree can do all that? 155. YUSUF: There are a few that grow in this area. They include Andropogon
gayanus (Hausa name is Gámbà, Fulfulde name is palawal), Bauhinia rufescens (Hausa name is Jìgá, Fulfulde name is nammaaree‐hi/je), Acacia nilotica (Hausa name is Námíjìn bàgàrùwàà, Fulfulde name is gawdi), Acacia senegal (Hausa name is Námíjìn tsáádà, Fulfulde name is dibee‐hi/je), Faidherbia albida (Hausa name is Dàmáágàrá̃m), and Azadiractha indica (Hausa name is Dar bejiyaº, and Fulfulde name is ganyi).
156. RIBADU: What about on the farm? What is the best crop to plant? 157. YUSUF: Root crops such as cassava. This is because they are least vulnerable
to strong winds. Also, I’ll remind our friends that burning of farms in order to clear the land is never ever a good thing.
158. RIBADU: You know we mention this almost every week that bush burning drastically reduces soil fertility. Instead, they should keep the land covered with vegetation or mulch at all times.
159. YUSUF: Ribadu, you’ve become an expert already. I couldn’t have said it better.
160. RIBADU: Thank you, Yusuf. What about farmers in dry areas where drought and soil erosion are likely to occur?
161. YUSUF: Well, such farmers will have to learn water conservation as well as soil conservation.
162. RIBADU: How will they do that? 163. YUSUF: They have to catch and store runoff water. For example, instead of
throwing away water from showers, they can store this shower
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water and use it to water their kitchen garden. Also, water can be harvested from roofs and used for gardening.
164. RIBADU: What about for large farms? 165. YUSUF: Large‐scale farmers should practice agroforestry. They should plant
trees on their farms as this increases soil fertility and reduces erosion.
166. RIBADU: I guess trees also have a way of inducing rain? 167. YUSUF: Not quite! But shelterbelts – like Sambo was talking about – provide
relief from wind and very much needed shade for the crops that can be grown in shade.
168. RIBADU: So what kind of plants should be grown in areas where there is drought and soil erosion?
169. YUSUF: Drought‐tolerant crops. But most importantly, effective storage of harvested crops is very important.
170. RIBADU: Yes, I heard that there are very simple methods to store grains. We will discuss this in a couple of weeks. Yusuf, you know, in some areas rainfall is very uncertain. What should farmers in such regions do?
171. YUSUF: Well, for domestic use and kitchen gardens, they will also have to harvest rainwater by catching and storing runoff water as I described earlier.
172. RIBADU: Thank you very much, Yusuf. You have been very helpful. 173. YUSUF: You are welcome, Ribadu. 174. RIBADU: I’m sure you all have learnt a lot today. However, you have a chance
to win very fabulous gifts on this program. All you have to do is answer a question for me. We’ll be doing this every week. So you better tune in. Alright, today’s question is “What should you do if you live in an area that is vulnerable to floods and storms?”Again, the question is “What should you do if you live in an area that is vulnerable to floods and storms?” Send your answers with your name and address to this radio station and next week we’ll announce the winner.
175. YUSUF: Am I also allowed to answer the question? 176. RIBADU: No no no, Yusuf. You are not allowed. It’s only for our listeners.
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177. YUSUF: Okay, I see. 178. RIBADU: So, friends, we have come to the end of another interesting episode
of “In Kidiya Chanza …” I hope you all had a wonderful time because I did. Thank you again, Yusuf, for coming.
179. YUSUF: My pleasure. 180. RIBADU: So friends, join us again, same time, same station and don’t forget
to tell everyone around you. Until then, bye bye! Acknowledgements This episode was written by Rebecca Ojedele of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). Additional scripting and editing was provided by Bolanle Lasisi of ARDA. This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 15
TOPIC – Small Gully Reclamation
Characters
Narrator ‐ Ribadu Kallamu Uwa Dikko Sambo Hindatu Saude Climate Change expert (Hajia Miriam)
1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER … 2. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5
AND UNDER ... 3. NARRATOR (RIBADU): WELCOME FRIENDS TO TODAY’S SEGMENT OF IN KIDIYA
CHANZA … A DRAMA PROGRAM ABOUT PEOPLE JUST LIKE US, MEN AND WOMEN DEALING WITH CHANGE IN A POSITIVE WAY. MY NAME IS RIBADU AND I’M A FULANI HERDSMAN LIKE MY FATHER BEFORE ME. TODAY IS GOING TO BE VERY INTERESTING BECAUSE A VERY LUCKY LISTENER WILL WIN A MUCH COVETED PRIZE. ARE YOU WONDERING WHO IT MIGHT BE? WELL, IT’S THE PERSON THAT GOT THE ANSWER TO LAST WEEK’S QUESTION. AT THE END OF THE PROGRAM, WE’LL REVEAL THE WINNER. THERE WILL BE ANOTHER QUESTION AT THE END OF TODAY’S PROGRAM, SO YOU’D BETTER STAY WITH US TILL THE END BECAUSE YOU MIGHT JUST BE OUR NEXT WEEK’S LUCKY WINNER. IT’S TIME FOR US TO SEE HOW OUR FRIENDS ARE FARING AND COPING WITH CLIMATE CHANGE. TODAY PROMISES TO BE A GOOD DAY AS WE HAVE A LOT PACKED FOR YOU. STAY TUNED.
4. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ... SCENE 1: 5. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 6. UWA: (IMPATIENTLY) So where are you coming from, Kallamu? 7. KALLAMU: Uwa, is that how to welcome your husband? 8. UWA: I’m sorry if I was curt. But I woke up this morning and you are not in
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the house. What do you want me to do? 9. KALLAMU: Oh so you are worried about me enh? I could have gone to the
farm. 10. UWA: Kallamu, I know you didn’t go to the farm. You have no seeds to
plant and you are broke. And you are yet to answer me where it is you are coming from this early morning.
11. KALLAMU: I went to pay a visit to Alhaji Maikano’s family. 12. UWA: This early morning? 13. KALLAMU: Do you have a problem with that, Uwa? 14. UWA: I’m just surprised that you’ve been going there almost every day.
And today, you went to pay a visit to them first thing in the morning. Is Alhaji Maikano back?
15. KALLAMU: No, he’s not back. He’s still in the hospital. But why the inquisitions? Am I supposed to answer to you about my whereabouts? Are you the husband in this family?
16. UWA: I’m sorry, my husband. I’m just concerned. So how is the family? 17. KALLAMU: They are fine. Since Hindatu came back, everything has changed in
that house. 18. UWA: Oh, Hindatu! She has become the topic of the entire village.
Everyone is commending all the work she has been doing since she came back.
19. KALLAMU: (LIGHTENING UP) Oh that girl is something else. Since she came to Kakaran Jatau, her father’s house has been restored to an immaculate state. Even the farm is being cultivated small by small because of the various educated ideas she has initiated.
20. UWA: Yes I heard that she is doing everything around there now. So what has Tanko been doing? Is he not a man?
21. KALLAMU: Tanko? That one is not a person. Hindatu is everything rolled into one. Beautiful, organized, loving, caring, educated …
22. UWA: (INTERRUPTS) Enh enh. Educated. That’s why she can do all she is doing. Our children have not gone to school for weeks now because you have not paid their fees. Now you are admiring another woman because she is educated.
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23. KALLAMU: (DEFENSIVELY) Uwa, if you are also as hardworking as Hindatu, you won’t have to ask me for everything. You would have been able to support me now that I’m a little short on cash.
24. UWA: Kallamu, you are a man and you should take your own responsibilities
seriously. And may I remind you, Hindatu is a divorced woman. 25. KALLAMU: Even at that she is a super woman and she will get married soon. 26. UWA: You sound so sure. Almost like you are hoping to be the man she
will marry. 27. KALLAMU: What’s wrong with me marrying her? 28. UWA: (LAUGHS DISMISSIVELY) Ah, you think Hindatu will settle for a
broke man, illiterate like you. After all her education? Don’t flatter yourself. Anyway, I truly hope she gets a good man. I really pity her.
29. KALLAMU: She will get. Enough about other people. Where is my food? 30. UWA: What food? Did you leave any food money before you left the
house this morning? 31. KALLAMU: So you mean there’s no food for me this morning? 32. UWA: Why do you think I’ve been waiting for you? I’ve not eaten myself,
the children have not eaten and there’s nothing in the house. 33. KALLAMU: And you couldn’t borrow money from yourself? 34. UWA: Which money? Have you forgotten that you have collected all my
savings, sold all my livestock? Where am I supposed to get the money from?
35. KALLAMU: So we are going to starve today? 36. UWA: Not only that, you have to pay back all the money you owe me. I
also need to start doing something for myself and for my children. 37. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2 38. SFX: SOUNDS OF PLATES AND SPOONS INDICATING PEOPLE EATING.
INDOORS 39. SAUDE: Sambo, how are you enjoying your meal?
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40. SAMBO: Saude, why are you always fishing for compliment? You know your food is always delicious. I miss it more than anything when I’m away herding the cattle.
41. SAUDE: I know my food is always delicious. But it doesn’t hurt to hear it. 42. SAMBO: (LAUGHS) Saude, my wife. Your food is good and it has given me the
strength I need for the day. 43. SAUDE: Are you still going to the agric office today? 44. SAMBO: Yes, to go and purchase those seedlings we discussed about. 45. SFX: KNOCK ON THE DOOR 46. SAUDE: Who can that be at this time of the day? Let me go and check. 47. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 48. SAUDE: Ah Dikko. Come in. (CALLS OUT) Sambo, Dikko is here to see you. 49. SAMBO: Dikko! Welcome! Hope there’s no problem? What brought you all
the way from Dogon Gimeta? 50. DIKKO: Sambo, my friend. There’s no problem but I have an urgent message
for you. 51. SAUDE: Dikko, is there anything I can get for you? We are just finishing
breakfast. 52. DIKKO: I’m okay, Saude. Thank you. 53. SAUDE: Sambo, I’ll be at the back. 54. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES AS SAUDE EXITS 55. DIKKO: Sambo, there’s trouble oh. 56. SAMBO: Trouble? How? Dikko, what is it? 57. DIKKO: The corpse of the boy you killed has been discovered. 58. SAMBO: (SHOCKED) What? How? When? 59. DIKKO: Some delegates from the boy’s village have been going from village
to village asking if anyone knows anything about the dead boy. They were in Dogon Gimeta yesterday and some of us were questioned.
60. SAMBO: Oh my God! What have I done? How did they find the boy so soon? 61. DIKKO: I think the flood washed off the sand we used to cover the boy up. 62. SAMBO: Dikko, but you told me this will not happen. You said nobody will
find out.
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63. DIKKO: Relax. Nobody has found out anything. They were simply asking every herdsman if they saw or heard anything and I told them nothing.
64. SAMBO: I have to go and report this. I must tell them it was a mistake. 65. DIKKO: I think you want to die too enh? Who will believe that it was a
mistake? After how many weeks? 66. SAMBO: Oh God! Dikko what will I do? 67. DIKKO: Nothing. Just keep your mouth shut. If you and I say nothing, no one
will be the wiser. I came to tell you so that you won’t be taken unawares when you are questioned. Just don’t panic.
68. SAMBO: I’m scared, Dikko. But I’m grateful for the heads up. 69. DIKKO: Just be a man and don’t let them scare you into saying anything. I
should be on my way. What are you doing today? 70. SAMBO: I’m going to the agric office. I need to buy seedlings. I want to plant
trees around the house and around the farm. 71. DIKKO: Oh, you are lucky. At least you have a house. Those of us that
moved to Dogon Gimeta have to build new houses and you know help is very scarce these days.
72. SAMBO: I’ll be glad to help you out if you need help. 73. DIKKO: I actually do need help because I’m starting the building today. I
would have asked for your help but you already have plans for the day.
74. SAMBO: There’s no problem. I can go to the agric office tomorrow. You have been of great help to me on the dead boy’s issue. Helping you out is the least I can do.
75. DIKKO: Thank you very much, my friend Sambo. We have to be on our way then if we want to accomplish anything today. I came in through the long road.
76. SAMBO: We can only go through the long road because the shorter road has been damaged by the flood. There are gullies everywhere. I was supposed to ask them at the agric office what I can do about those gullies but I can’t go there today.
77. DIKKO: Well, there’s always tomorrow. 78. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO
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SCENE 3 79. SFX: OUTDOORS. CRACKLING SOUND OF JUNK BEING MOVED AND
THROWN 80. UWA: Asalaam aleikun, Hindatu. 81. HINDATU: (SURPRISED) Uwa! Welcome. When did you get here? 82. UWA: Just got here. I asked of you inside but I was told you are at the
backyard. 83. HINDATU: Yes, I’m trying to clear this back for the kitchen garden I want to
plant. How is the family? 84. UWA: Everybody is fine. 85. HINDATU: I was actually planning to come and see you at home, Uwa. 86. UWA: Really? Hope there’s no problem? 87. HINDATU: No problem at all. I’m trying to start a women farmers’ association
and I was hoping you’d be interested. 88. UWA: I don’t have a farm. I only rear livestock. My husband Kallamu owns
our farm and right now he is bankrupt. We have no seeds to plant. 89. HINDATU: (SYMPATHETIC) Insha Allah, things will turn around. By the way, you
are a farmer even if you only do livestock farming. 90. UWA: Really? I didn’t see it that way. I’ve always wanted to do actual
farming, but my husband Kallamu has always made it seem like farming is a man’s job.
91. HINDATU: Uwa, trust me; he is not the only one with that belief. But you can have a kitchen garden like the one I’m planning here. You can plant vegetables for household use. If your husband sees how well you manage that, he may permit you to run an actual farm.
92. UWA: I’ll discuss it with him. And I’ll also ask him if I can join the women’s group.
93. HINDATU: I hope he says yes. 94. UWA: Oh, I think he’ll say yes, especially if he knows that it is your idea. He
respects you a lot and he’s always talking about you. 95. HINDATU: Don’t mind Alhaji Kallamu. He is always giving me too much credit. 96. UWA: But you deserve all the credit you get. You are so hard‐working and
everyone can see all you’ve been able to achieve here. 97. HINDATU: Thank you Uwa. Allah be praised.
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98. UWA: My prayer is that may Allah grant you a very good husband, who will love you and not treat you the way your ex‐husband did.
99. HINDATU: Thank you for the prayers but I’m not looking for a husband right now. I just want to do as much as I can do so that when my father returns from the hospital, he won’t have anything to worry about.
100. UWA: That’s so thoughtful of you. Sometimes I just wish I can be like you. 101. HINDATU: Like me? With all my troubles? Please just thank God for all he has
done for you. (SUDDENLY) Uwa, sorry oh, I didn’t even ask you why you came to see me.
102. UWA: I just came to visit since I haven’t formally come to see you since you arrived.
103. HINDATU: Ah, thank you so much. I appreciate it a lot. 104. UWA: You are welcome, Hindatu. Let me be on my way. 105. HINDATU: Thank you. Regards to your family. Bye. 106. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADE TO
SCENE 4 107. SFX: LATE EVENING. BIRDS SQUEAKING 108. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 109. SAUDE: Sambo, welcome. What took you so long? Where are the seedlings? 110. SAMBO: (TIREDLY) I’m coming from Dogon Gimeta? 111. SAUDE: Dogon Gimeta? What happened? What did you go there to do? 112. SAMBO: I went to help out Dikko with his new house. 113. SAUDE: Dikko? Weren’t you supposed to go to the agric office for seedlings
for the trees? 114. SAMBO: Yes Saude, I was supposed to go there today but when Dikko came
this morning I offered to help him with the house. 115. SAUDE: I didn’t even know when you left this morning. I was waiting for you
at the back and you left with him without saying anything to me. 116. SAMBO: So sorry, Saude. You know how hard it is to build a house and Dikko
had no help. I had to be a friend and help him out. 117. SAUDE: No one can be willing to help Dikko because they all know what a
mean man he is. I don’t think you should be spending too much time with him either. You know Dikko is never any good.
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118. SAMBO: Dikko is a changed man. He is calmer and more thoughtful. He has been a good friend to me these past few weeks.
119. SAUDE: What has he done for you? 120. SAMBO: What he has done? 121. SAUDE: Yes! What can he possibly do for you? And for how long? Can a
leopard really change its spots? Sambo, no matter what Dikko does, he can never stop being a bad man.
122. SAMBO: Saude, give the man the benefit of the doubt. Give him a chance to prove he’s changed.
123. SAUDE: I’m not willing to do that and I hope you won’t either. Anyway, did you see my friend Laila in Dogon Gimeta?
124. SAMBO: No I didn’t. I left as soon as it started getting dark. 125. SAUDE: And you still got back this late? Why? Did you go somewhere else? 126. SAMBO: No. I had to take the long road back. The bridge on the short road
has been washed off by the flood and there are several gullies on the road. It’s dangerous.
127. SAUDE: Sambo, even on the farm, there are gullies everywhere. What are we going to do about it?
128. SAMBO: I’ll have to go to the agric office to find out. I planned to do that today but no problem. I’ll do that tomorrow.
129. SAUDE: Hmn. Dikko, good man, since when? Mts! (KISSING HER TEETH) 130. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP 05 AND UNDER 131. RIBADU: Welcome back, friends. It’s still In Kidiya Chanza … and I’m still your
host Ribadu. Our story is becoming really interesting. Uwa is starting to see that her husband has a crush on Hindatu. What will she did about it? Is Dikko up to any good? Will he prove Saude wrong? Has he changed? Will Sambo be forever indebted to Dikko because of the cover‐up? You can only answer these questions if you always keep a date with us on the program every week. Sambo seems to be really worried about the gullies in his community. Incidentally, that’s our topic of discussion today on this program. I have with me in the studio Hajia Miriam and today she will be discussing with us how we can use the gullies to our advantage. But before we continue, let’s relax with this beautiful song.
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132. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER ... 133. RIBADU: Welcome back. It’s still your favorite agric program on radio, In
Kidiya Chanza … I have with me in the studio Hajia Miriam. Hajia, you are welcome to the program.
134. MIRIAM: Thank you, Ribadu. I am pleased to be here. 135. RIBADU: Friends at home, I want you to listen to this program attentively as
today’s topic is of utmost importance and what’s more, I’ll be asking a question at the end of the program. If you get it right, you have a chance to win great prizes. Also the winner of last week’s quiz will be announced at the end of the show. Hajia, once again you are welcome.
136. MIRIAM: Thank you. 137. RIBADU: Hajia, today we want you to tell us about gullies and what we can
do about them, especially on the farm. 138. MIRIAM: The best thing to do about gullies is to reclaim them. 139. RIBADU: What do you mean by that? 140. MIRIAM: Gullies are like ditches right in the middle of land that should be
used for cultivation. Therefore, the simplest thing to do is to fill those gullies so they can still be used for cultivation.
141. RIBADU: Why is that a good thing to do? 142. MIRIAM: There are various reasons why reclaiming gullies is a good idea.
First, it reduces the amount of soil erosion downslope. 143. RIBADU: That soil erosion is a bad thing oh. If it happens, all the crops that
have been planted will just wash off. 144. MIRIAM: That’s very true Ribadu. Also, gully reclamation ensures that a
portion of land that would otherwise be useless is made useful for production.
145. RIBADU: Okay, that makes sense. But filling gullies must definitely require lots and lots of labour.
146. MIRIAM: Yes that’s true. Also if there’s a huge storm when they are just starting the reclamation, then it won’t work.
147. RIBADU: Well, it’s true that everything that has a good side always has a not so good side.
148. MIRIAM: Well, in this case, the benefits outweigh the costs.
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149. RIBADU: Okay, if someone wants to do the gully reclamation, what would they need?
150. MIRIAM: Well, let’s talk about reclaiming small gullies. Larger gullies require much more time, effort and expense. With big gullies you must ask for advice from the agricultural office.
151. RIBADU: Can farmers repair small gullies themselves? 152. MIRIAM: Yes. To repair a small gully, it’s first important to divert most of the
water away from entering the gully. Farmers should build a diversion ditch to channel water away from the gully. The ditch should run roughly across the slope above the head of the gulley. The ditch takes the water either into natural waterways or vegetated watercourses, or onto rock outcrops and stable areas which are not susceptible to erosion.
153. RIBADU: I was just thinking … Would this diversion ditch prevent gullies from forming in the first place? 154. MIRIAM: Yes, this is the best idea. But it can also be used to reclaim existing gullies. 155. RIBADU: And isn’t this channel itself eroded? 156. MIRIAM: Good question, Ribadu. It is important to prevent this channel from
being eroded. The best way to do that is to make sure that the slope of the diversion ditch is very small, less than one percent. A diversion ditch with a one percent slope will carry water 100 metres with only a one metre drop in elevation. If you have permanent plant cover inside the ditch itself, the slope can be as high as two to three percent. But you have to make sure that this vegetation is maintained in the ditch through the rainy season, or the 2‐3% slope will cause the ditch to erode.
157. RIBADU: How large should the diversion ditch be? 158. MIRIAM: It should be large enough to carry all the water that is discharged
from the gully catchment area during periods of maximum run‐off. 159. RIBADU: OK. You said that making a diversion ditch was the first important
thing to do. Are there other steps that farmers should take to reclaim gullies?
160. MIRIAM: Oh yes. The diversion ditch is just the first step. Once you have built
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a diversion ditch, then you must build a series of stone barriers in the gulley every ten meters or so downslope.
161. RIBADU: How should farmers build the stone barriers? 162. MIRIAM: Add rocks across the gully floor on top of the soil. Make the stone
barrier widest in the middle of the gully, so that there is a point of stones facing upstream to break the force of the oncoming water. The barrier should be at least one metre wide – from upslope to downslope – and about 30 centimetres high. It should extend into the gully walls on both sides. You can add sticks to this barrier if you like. If you have wire to contain the whole structure, that helps keep it strong.
163. RIBADU: OK, what next? 164. MIRIAM: Once you have built the stone barrier, you place flat stones on the
gully floor immediately downslope from the barrier. The stones will help break the force of the water that flows over the stone barrier. Then plant vetiver grass or another strong bunching or creeping grass in the gully downslope from the barriers. You should also plant it on the banks where the soil has been dug up.
165. RIBADU: You said that farmers should build a series of stone barriers. How many barriers should they build?
166. MIRIAM: It depends on the length of the gully. But it’s a good idea to build a stone barrier every ten meters down the slope. When it rains, soil will settle behind the stone barriers. Once the area behind the barrier is full of soil, farmers can put rocks on top to help keep this soil in place. But it’s important to make sure that the stone barrier is always one metre wide.
167. RIBADU: Any other things to remember? 168. MIRIAM: It’s a good idea to ensure that the stone barriers are well‐anchored
into the gully wall. So, just like you drive fence poles deep into the soil, you must make sure your dams are well‐anchored into the soil of the gully wall.
169. RIBADU: What about planting trees at the head of the gully?
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170. MIRIAM: That’s a good idea. You can plant trees or a tuft‐forming plant, even vetiver grass. And, like I said, you can plant trees and shrubs all along the gully too.
171. RIBADU: I imagine you want to keep cattle away from the gully. 172. MIRIAM: Yes, good point. You don’t want cattle to feed in your gully.
Sometimes feeding cattle are even the cause of gullies! Making a good thorny fence around the gully to stop cattle from trampling is a good idea.
173. RIBADU: That’s a lot to remember! 174. MIRIAM: Yes, gully control is not simple. But farmers can control small gullies
by themselves. And if anyone has a problem with the process, they can always come to the agric office. Filling large gullies requires different techniques. Please talk to the agric office about that. We are always willing to help.
175. RIBADU: You know, time is not on our side. I wish we can discuss this topic the whole day.
176. MIRIAM: Well, like I said, enquires can be made at the agric office. 177. RIBADU: Friends, we are coming to the end of today’s program. The winner
for last week’s question is……………………. Please go and collect your prize at……………………. Today’s question is easy. How do you reclaim a gully? I repeat. The question is “How is the process of gully reclamation done?” Send your answer to …………………………….. and you just might be our lucky winner next week. Hajia Miriam, thanks for joining us today.
178. MIRIAM: It’s been my pleasure. 179. RIBADU: That’s it for today, friends. Join us again next week, same time,
same station. Until then, keep practicing what you’ve learnt and tell your friends and family about this wonderful program “In Kidiya Chanza …”. Bye for now.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Rebecca Ojedele of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 16 TOPIC – Field‐level water harvesting for community use Characters
Ribadu/Narrator Dorcas Bulus OC Dije Baaba Kalamu Hajiya Mariam
1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER … 2. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER ... 3. NARRATOR (RIBADU): WELCOME FRIENDS TO TODAY’S SEGMENT OF IN KIDIYA
CHANZA … A DRAMA PROGRAM ABOUT PEOPLE JUST LIKE US, MEN AND WOMEN DEALING WITH CHANGE IN A POSITIVE WAY. MY NAME IS RIBADU AND I’M A FULANI HERDSMAN LIKE MY FATHER BEFORE ME. LAST WEEK, WE HAD A VERY INTERESTING SESSION AND A LUCKY WINNER! THIS WEEK, THERE WILL BE ANOTHER WINNER BUT THIS PERSON WILL BE REVEALED AT THE END OF THE PROGRAM. ALSO, LAST WEEK WE LEARNT ABOUT HOW TO MAKE THE BEST OF GULLIES, ESPECIALLY ON LAND USED FOR CULTIVATION. HAJIA MIRIAM WAS HERE AND SHE DID A THOROUGH JOB EXPLAINING TO US THE PROCESS OF GULLY RECLAMATION. THIS WEEK’S PROGRAM IS FULLY PACKED. BUT BEFORE WE GO ON, COME WITH ME TO KAKARAN JATAU, LET’S SEE HOW OUR FRIENDS IN THE DRAMA ARE DOING.
4. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ... SCENE 1: 5. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND BANGS SHUT
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6. DIJE: (ANGRILY) What is all this nonsense? It is her turn to cook now and she is not here.
7. SFX: COCK CROWS 8. DIJE: (SHOUTS) Enh? So she even bought live chicken. See, even
potatoes. Who does she think she is? Rich madam? Oh so she wants to …
9. SFX: SOUND OF KITCHEN UTENSILS CRASHING ON THE FLOOR 10. DIJE: Useless, good for nothing woman. All she does is run around town
like a goat on fire. See, all the pots her useless maid used. So they can’t wash, eh? Oh do I look like a maid?
11. SFX: MORE CRASHING SOUNDS 12. DIJE: Today, she will know that she cannot mess with me. Me? Dije? Let’s
see now! If I will not beat her and pour sand in her mouth. 13. SFX: DOOR OPENS SUDDENLY 14. OC: Dije, what is it? Who are you quarrelling with? 15. DIJE: (ANGRILY) What? What, OC? 16. OC: Dije, you are quarrelling with yourself this early morning! Are you
sure you are not running mad? 17. DIJE: God forbid! God forbid bad thing, OC! Anyone who thinks evil of me
will certainly have evil in their lives. 18. OC: Dije, I don’t have your time this morning. Since the day I married
you, I’ve not had a moment of peace. 19. DIJE: How will you have peace when you are such a partiality master?
Look at that useless wife you just married. Where is she now? It’s her time to cook and she’s not here. So is she just a decoration wife or does she not know she has responsibilities in this house?
20. OC: So, it’s the thought of Altine that is eating you up this morning? 21. DIJE: (CLAPS) Eeeee!!! So I cannot complain if someone is not doing what
they are supposed to do? Enh? Your wife brought in a stupid maid who will not even do anything in the house.
22. OC: (CALMLY) Dije, I know you, and I know what you are capable of. All I want is peace in this house. Altine does not even come home because she doesn’t want your trouble.
23. DIJE: She cannot come! Because this house cannot contain the two of us.
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24. OC: Okay fine! If you choose to continue to be irrational. Just get me my bath water; I need to go out.
25. DIJE: (CLAPS) Eeee!! I should get you bath water! Me, Dije? What happened to your wife’s hands? Why can’t she fetch your water? 26. OC: Dije, something is wrong with you. 27. DIJE: Let something be wrong. I will not stay here and do her chores for
her. Since she can steal husbands, she should also be able to do the work of a housewife.
28. OC: I don’t blame you. Give me that kettle, let me go and get water. 29. SFX: SOUND OF UTENSIL BEING SLAMMED, FEET SHUFFLING AND THEN
DOOR BANGING SHUT 30. DIJE: (MIMICS HIM) I don’t blame you. (LAUGHS) Why will he blame me?
He should blame himself and that useless girl called Altine or Altino or whatever her stupid name is.
31. OC: (CALLING OFF MIC) Suweiba! Suweiba! 32. DIJE: (ON MIC) Look at him calling her maid. What a husband! She
marries him but stays in her own house and sends her maid here to do her duty. (SCREAMS) Will Suweiba also sleep in your bed for her?
33. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2 34. SFX: SOUNDS OF WATER SPLASHING AND THEN BEING POURED INTO A
BASIN 35. KALLAMU: Asaalam Aleikun, Hajia Baaba. 36. BAABA: Ah, Mallam Kallamu. Ma aleikun Salaam. 37. KALLAMU: Well done. I asked of you inside and I was told you are back here washing clothes. 38. BAABA: Yes, I’m washing Alhaji Maikano’s clothes that Hindatu brought back
from the hospital. How is the family? 39. KALLAMU: We thank God everybody is okay. I went to see Alhaji yesterday and
he is still quite sick. We’ve been praying for him at the mosque. 40. BAABA: Please just continue to pray. Thank you for always being a good
friend to Alhaji. I’m sure he appreciates it as we all do.
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41. KALLAMU: No problem at all, Hajia. What are friends for? Should I help you pour that water away?
42. BAABA: No, thank you. We don’t throw away water in this house. We save it to water the new kitchen garden that Hindatu is planting. What about your farm?
43. KALLAMU: Hajia Baaba, I’m not planting anything this season. 44. BAABA: Why, Kallamu? Why? 45. KALLAMU: Hajia Baaba, I incurred so much loss last season that right now, I’m
neck deep in debt. 46. BAABA: Eeya! I understand. Last season was not friendly to anyone at all. All
farmers suffered one loss or the other. The long dry season made lots of crops wither and die.
47. KALLAMU: Even when the rains started, the flood was so much that many farms were washed off.
48. BAABA: Not just farms oh. Many houses were destroyed by that flood and I hear that there are gullies everywhere now.
49. KALLAMU: Yes oh. Gullies have taken over the road from here to Kano city. 50. BAABA: Well, what can we do? We must give praise to Allah and pray that
He is merciful to us and returns the good times back to us. 51. KALLAMU: But Hajia, apart from Alhaji Maikano’s illness, your household is
thriving, your farms are doing well. It’s good to see every one rallying together (LAUGHS), even Tanko and Sahura, I hope …
52. BAABA: (LAUGHS) Praise be to Allah, Kallamu. We thank God. It’s all due to Hindatu actually. She has worked so hard to keep this household at peace even though she has brought many new ideas.
53. KALLAMU: Hajia Baaba, I’m actually here because of Hindatu. 54. BAABA: (PUZZLED) Hindatu? Eh‐hen‐eh? 55. KALLAMU: (SHYLY CHUCKLES WITH A LITTLE EMBARRASSMENT) I want to
marry her. 56. BAABA: (EXCITED) Really? Have you told her? (CLAPS, HAPPY) What did she
say? 57. KALLAMU: (SIGHS) She turned me down. I’ve tried my best and I don’t know
how to get her to agree. 58. BAABA: Why is she not interested?
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59. KALLAMU: Hajia, I don’t know! I wish she’ll give me a chance to prove to her that I’m not like her ex‐husband.
60. BAABA: Okay, what do you want me to do? 61. KALLAMU: I’ll be grateful if you can talk to her for me. I know she is very close
to you. Even though you are not her mother, she sees you and respects you as such.
62. BAABA: You are right about that…. Hindatu is as my own daughter. I raised her from the beginning despite her mother Asabe being here as my co‐wife. I’ll be very happy to see her married to a good man like you as I’m sure you’ll look after her well.
63. KALLAMU: Hajia, I love that girl with all my heart. I’ll do anything to make her happy and it will bring our two families even closer, don’t you think?
64. BAABA: I have to warn you though. Hindatu can be very stubborn and strong‐willed.
65. KALLAMU: Please Hajia Baaba, help me talk to her. If anyone can change her mind it is you. 66. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 67. SFX: SOUND OF MOTORBIKE ROARING AND COMING TO A HALT WITH
BRAKES SCREECHING 68. DORCAS: Bulus, thanks for the ride. 69. BULUS: You are my wife, Dorcas. Don’t make it sound like I don’t do
anything for you. 70. DORCAS: Well I’m not going into that debate with you this morning. I’m just
glad you were able to bring me to the farm this morning, considering that the only available route is the long road.
71. BULUS: That’s because I don’t want you messing up your fine legs in the mud or falling into any dangerous gullies on the short route.
72. DORCAS: That’s why I said thank you in the first place. 73. BULUS: (JOKINGLY) Thank you will not do oh. You have to pay for the ride.
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74. DORCAS: Pay? How much did you pay for the water I fetched, food I cooked and clothes I washed? All this morning. All for you. So you are owing me.
75. BULUS: (CHUCKLING) It comes with the territory. You are my wife and those are just some of your responsibilities as the good wife that you are.
76. DORCAS: I see. As a husband, you should be able to take care of your wife; so bringing me to the farm is just one of your responsibilities as a husband.
77. BULUS: Hmmm. Dorcas! When did you turn into a lawyer? 78. DORCAS: Lawyer? I’m a farmer oh, not a lawyer. 79. BULUS: Hmmm. Look at your farm. Wow. It’s doing so well. 80. DORCAS: Thank God. 81. BULUS: So you planted soya beans together with maize. How did you do
that? They look healthy and almost ripe for harvest. 82. DORCAS: Yes, I’ll soon harvest them. 83. BULUS: Hmmm, hmm. My wife, you’ve turned into an expert farmer oh. 84. DORCAS: I told you that the experts at the agric office told me to plant soya
beans and maize together. But you didn’t believe it would work. 85. BULUS: I was wrong. In fact I was wrong about a lot of things. I didn’t even
believe that you can turn this desolate land into such a productive farm.
86. DORCAS: (SURPRISED) Wonders will never end Bulus. First you brought me to the farm on your bike, you laughed and joked with me, and now you are admitting that you were wrong about me? Are you up to something?
87. BULUS: Dorcas, why are you making me sound so callous? I’m just surprised; that’s all. And I’m not up to anything.
88. DORCAS: I hope so oh. 89. BULUS: I can’t see any wuta‐wuta on your farm. 90. DORCAS: That’s because it’s not there and I’m praying to God to keep it out. 91. BULUS: How come it’s not there? Almost every farm has wuta‐wuta. I’m still
struggling with them on my own farm.
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92. DORCAS: When I was about to clear the land for planting, an expert at the agric office advised me not to set fire and burn the weeds. He suggested something they call “zero‐tillage.”
93. BULUS: What’s that? 94. DORCAS: I was advised not to clear the land…. Hindatu and I paid for
someone recommended to us by the agric officer at the local government office, who came and sprayed a chemical called “Round‐up” on the land to kill weeds right from their roots. With zero‐tillage, you spray four litres of Round‐up per hectare at least two weeks before sowing your soybeans. We planted on the soil like that without further breaking up the soil; the dead weeds provide cover for the soil so that it does not dry up. They say striga (wuta‐wuta) grows fast on dry, infertile soil. One application of Round‐up won’t do everything though. It’s important to do a hand‐weeding 5‐6 weeks after planting.
95. BULUS: I’ve heard of Round‐up. So it works, enh? I’ll go and get it and spray on my farm.
96. DORCAS: Bulus, don’t spray it by yourself oh. Please call an expert to come and spray it for you oh.
97. BULUS: Why? 98. DORCAS: Bulus, it’s a poisonous chemical and one shouldn’t breathe its fumes
or let it touch your hands, eyes or body. The person that applied mine wore things that protected him from head to toe and he ensured that there weren’t people or animals when he sprayed it.
99. BULUS: So you are worried about me, enh? 100. DORCAS: I’m worried all right, but I’m also pleading that you not dabble in things you don’t know anything about. 101. BULUS: (LAUGHS) Ah‐ah, Dorcas. So you are now an expert farmer, right? 102. DORCAS: Whatever, just go. Let me start today’s work. 103. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 4 104. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES SHARPLY 105. UWA: (EXCITEDLY) Kallamu, my husband.
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106. KALLAMU: Where are you coming from, Uwa? 107. UWA: I went to see Hindatu. After that I went to grind guinea corn for our
night food. 108. KALLAMU: I see. (CURIOUSLY) Why did you go and see Hindatu? 109. UWA: No reason in particular. It’s just that since she came I hadn’t really
gone to greet her. And moreover, you are always talking about her, so why not?
110. KALLAMU: I see. 111. UWA: Hindatu is a very nice woman oh! Do you know she is trying to start
a women farmers’ association? 112. KALLAMU: I didn’t know that. 113. UWA: Oh, she is. And she has such plans for it. 114. KALLAMU: Really? Well I’m not surprised. (LONGINGLY) Hindatu always has
huge plans for everything. 115. UWA: (EXCITED AND UNAWARE) She even invited me to join. 116. KALLAMU: Join what? Women farmers’ association or what did you call it? 117. UWA: Yes! An association for farmers, but this one is only for women. 118. KALLAMU: Are you a farmer? 119. UWA: What kind of question is that, Kallamu? And you know that I’ve
been going around asking people for money so I could have something to plant this season.
120. UWA: Why are you making it sound like I’m the one that doesn’t want you to plant your farm? Have I not been supportive enough? Answer me, Uwa! You have money and you didn’t give me and you call yourself supportive.
121. UWA: Kallamu, have you forgotten that all through last season it was my money you used on the farm? You sold all my livestock. You even sold my cows. You left me with absolutely no savings.
122. KALLAMU: Now that you have some money, you want to use it for a vegetable garden.
123. UWA: Yes, what’s wrong with that? 124. KALLAMU: Do you think farming is an easy thing to do? 125. UWA: So what if it’s not easy? Does that mean I can’t do it? 126. KALLAMU: Have you forgotten how lazy you are?
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127. UWA: Me? Kallamu, you just called me lazy? 128. KALLAMU: Well fragile then! 129. UWA: I’m not fragile and you know it. 130. KALLAMU: Even if you don’t think you are fragile, at least you have the
common sense to know that farming is for men. Even strong men still find it difficult and you think you can just wake up one morning and decide to become a farmer.
131. UWA: Kallamu, why are you making a big deal out of this? One minute you are praising Hindatu for keeping up with her father’s farm and the next, you are telling me why I can’t be a farmer.
132. KALLAMU: (LAUGHING) I beg you Uwa, don’t make me laugh. So you want to compare yourself with Hindatu? Mts! (HISSING AND KISSING HIS TEETH).
133. UWA: (MIFFED) Why not? Am I not a woman like her? 134. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO … 135. RIBADU: Welcome back friends, it’s still your favourite farm program on
radio, “In Kidiya Chanza…”. You know I always look forward to the drama section of this program? Because you never can tell what’s going to happen next. Can you imagine Kallamu, who is so impressed by Hindatu, refusing his own wife from doing exactly what Hindatu does? It’s amazing, or is that just what we do as men? Anyway, let’s tune in next week to hear what becomes of both of them. As is our tradition, we have in the studio today a climate change expert who will enlighten us on a chosen topic. Today, I’m particularly interested in how we can retain more of the rainwater in the soil that would otherwise be lost for use on our farm and household. And I believe Mallam Yusuf will have answers for us. Before we go on, it’s time to unwind with this song. It’s one of my favourites. Enjoy!
136. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER ... 137. RIBADU: Welcome back. It’s still “In Kidiya Chanza…”and today, Mallam
Yusuf has been so kind as to grace us with his presence again. 138. YUSUF: Ribadu, I should thank you for inviting me again.
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139. RIBADU: You are welcome. Friends at home, please let me remind you that at the end of the program, I’ll throw you a quiz and the winner stands a chance of winning an enviable price. Therefore, listen very well to this session of the program.
140. YUSUF: Did you get a winner for last episode’s quiz? 141. RIBADU: Yes, and we’ll reveal the winner at the end of the program. So
Yusuf, let’s get down to the business of the day. 142. YUSUF: I heard you talking about how to keep some of the moisture from
the rains in the soil so that it is not lost. I suppose that’s what we are discussing today.
143. RIBADU: You are very correct, Yusuf. It really bothers me that because of the climate change, we experience very long dry seasons and then a very short raining season and then the cycle repeats itself and we haven’t been able to do anything about it
144. YUSUF: Ribadu, don’t beat yourself up over it. There are simple techniques that have been tried in many parts of the world and found to be effective.
145. RIBADU: Okay Yusuf, I’m listening. 146. YUSUF: The techniques involve harvesting water. 147. RIBADU: Water harvesting. We have discussed this before on this
program, but then we focused on making water available for household use as well as for small farms like kitchen vegetable garden. Now our focus is really making more moisture available to crops in the field.
148. YUSUF: (CHUCKLES) Ribadu, we are on the same page. I’m saying that water can be harvested from a larger area and concentrated into a smaller area to enhance soil moisture.
149. RIBADU: I’m listening! 150. YUSUF: Have you heard of planting pits? 151. RIBADU: Oh Yusuf, you mean pits, as in like holes that are dug into the ground? So what about the pits? 152. YUSUF: The use of planting pits is one of the methods of water harvesting. 153. RIBADU: Do you mean that farmers should dig pits and use this pit to store
water?
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154. YUSUF: Actually, with some assistance, what you’ve described is also a method of water harvesting although it’s a very expensive method. However, that is not what I am referring to here.
155. RIBADU: I see. 156. YUSUF: Planting pits are small holes dug on the farm. A little manure is added and then seeds are planted in this hole. 157. RIBADU: How is that a method of water harvesting? 158. YUSUF: During rainstorms, these pits catch runoff water and concentrate the water around the plant growing from the pit. 159. RIBADU: Well, I haven’t heard about the planting pits but I see sense in
what you’ve just described. The pits help to retain water in these pits for the seeds instead of the water just running off the field, wasted.
160. YUSUF: You got it right Ribadu. Especially on land that is quite hard so that it’s difficult for water to penetrate, the planting pits are most useful.
161. RIBADU: I suspect it will require a lot of labour to dig as many pits on the land as possible 162. YUSUF: Oh sure. That’s one thing about the planting pits. If you can get
enough labour to dig them, though, you’ll be glad you did. But apart from planting pits, farmers can also construct what are called stone bunds.
163. RIBADU: Stone bunds? What are those? 164. YUSUF: Don’t let the big words confuse you. Stone bunds are lines of
stones along the contours of a sloping field. They reduce the speed of runoff water, filter the water and then let the water spread over the field. It’s the simplest form of water harvesting and it helps to reduce erosion and help the soil retain a lot of water.
165. RIBADU: Okay, I think that means that as water runs off the soil, the stone bunds reduce the speed so that the flood will not carry the growing plants away. Also the water enters the soil well and also waters the plants right in front of the stone bunds.
166. YUSUF: Right. Although I’ll advise our listeners to visit any agric office
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close to them to find out more about these stone bunds because sometimes the way these stones are placed also depends on the layout of the farm.
167. RIBADU: You mentioned the planting pits earlier. Is it possible to have both planting pits and stone bunds on the same farm? 168. YUSUF: Oh yes. The planting pits are used on flat parts of the field, and the stone lines or bunds are for sloping fields. 169. RIBADU: Yusuf, you mentioned that labour is the main challenge with
planting pits. What do you foresee as the problem with stone bunds?
170. YUSUF: Well, for me, I think if the stones are not locally available, transporting them to the farm can be expensive and time‐consuming.
171. RIBADU: I think so too. Hmmm. Stone bunds and planting pits. I have learnt two new words today. 172. YUSUF: Well, changes in our climate have made it necessary for us to look for every method that can help us cope. 173. RIBADU: You are correct, Yusuf. It’s just exciting that at my old age, I still have a lot to learn. 174. YUSUF: We are all learning, Ribadu. I’m just glad to be of help. 175. RIBADU: Well, thank you so much, Yusuf, for yielding to our call once again. 176. YUSUF: You are most welcome, Ribadu. 177. RIBADU: Okay friends, it’s time for today’s quiz and the question is
simple. If you’ve listened attentively, this is a piece of cake. Okay, here is the question: “What are the various ways of ensuring that you keep more of the moisture from rainwater in the soil so that you can use it for your crops and your household?” Send your answers to this radio station and next week, you just might be a lucky winner.
178. YUSUF: I agree. That is an easy question. 179. RIBADU: Very easy. You know I’m a very considerate old man.
Okay, it’s time to announce the winner for last week’s quiz. The winner is …………………………………… Please come to…………………………………. to redeem your prize. Our time is far spent
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and we need to go now. Thank you once again for coming, Mallam Yusuf.
180. YUSUF: Thank you too. 181. RIBADU: Please remember to join us next week, same time and on this
same station. Remember it’s “In Kidiya Chanza …” and I am Ribadu, your host. Bye for now.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Rebecca Ojedele of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 17
TOPIC: AGRO FORESTRY
Characters Hindatu Baaba Uwa Dije Sambo Saude Climate change expert (Mariam)
1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER … 2. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5
AND UNDER ... 3. NARRATOR (RIBADU): WELCOME, FRIENDS, TO TODAY’S SEGMENT OF IN KIDIYA
CHANZA … A DRAMA PROGRAM ABOUT PEOPLE JUST LIKE US, MEN AND WOMEN DEALING WITH CHANGE IN A POSITIVE WAY. MY NAME IS RIBADU AND I’M A FULANI HERDSMAN LIKE MY FATHER BEFORE ME. TODAY WILL BE A VERY INTERESTING DAY, I PROMISE YOU. WHAT WILL MAKE IT INTERESTING? WAIT AND FIND OUT…. TODAY, OUR CLIMATE CHANGE EXPERT WILL BE HERE TO TALK TO US ABOUT A VERY SPECIAL TOPIC WHICH I TRUST WILL HELP A LOT OF US FARMERS. BUT FIRST LET’S HEAR HOW OUR FRIENDS IN OUR STORIES ARE CHANGING THEIR DANCE STEPS.
4. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ... SCENE 1: 5. SFX: DOOR OPENS 6. HINDATU: (CALLS OUT) Baaba! Baaba!! Where are you? We are running late! 7. BAABA: (OFF MIC) Hindatu, I’m coming. I’m dressing up. 8. HINDATU: Baaba, please be fast. Visiting hours will soon be over. 9. BAABA: Okay, Hindatu. You know I’m an old woman. 10. HINDATU: Old? You? Please don’t say you’re old oh, Baaba. Young as you are?
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11. BAABA: Na true! Keep deceiving me Hindatu. (COMING ON MIC) Ha, Hindatu! You left the door open.
12. HINDATU: Sorry Baaba, I thought you’d be ready by now and I’m in a hurry to go.
13. SFX: DOOR CLOSES 14. BAABA: Always in a hurry, Hindatu! What else do you have in the basket? I
already made tuwo for Alhaji, hope that’s not what you have there? 15. HINDATU: No. I didn’t bother cooking. I knew by now you’d have made his
food. These are just change of clothes for him. Let’s go. Nobody from this house has been to see him since morning. That’s not good.
16. BAABA: (OFFENDED) Hindatu, I wanted to go but there was nobody in the house to escort me. I couldn’t have gone there on my own, you know that … (CHANGES TACK) Anyway, Hindatu, I beg you. Sit down. Before we go, there’s something I need to talk to you about.
17. HINDATU: (IMPATIENT) Can’t it wait, Baaba? We really have to go. After I return from the hospital, I still have to tend the vegetable garden behind the house….
18. BAABA: (INTERRUPTS) All that can wait, Hindatu. It’s very important I have this talk with you now because time is running out. Pull that chair and sit down, Hindatu.
19. SFX: SOUND OF CHAIR SCRAPING THE FLOOR 20. HINDATU: Okay Baaba, what is so important? 21. BAABA: Hindatu, who am I to you? 22. HINDATU: Baaba! What kind of a question is that? 23. BAABA: Just answer the question, Hindatu. 24. HINDATU: Baaba, you are my stepmother but you are more like a mother to
me because you brought me up. 25. BAABA: Good. If you really see me as your mother, then you know that I
cannot deceive you. 26. HINDATU: I know Baaba and I appreciate all you’ve done for me since I was a
child. 27. BAABA: Hindatu, as a mother, I cannot watch you suffer. You do not take
time out to take care of yourself. All you think about is the farm, your father in the hospital, and now you’ve added the vegetable
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garden at the back, trying to get food for the household. What about you?
28. HINDATU: (CHUCKLES) Baaba, I know you are worried about me but really, I am fine. I eat well, I sleep well, my son Zaradeen is doing well. If I don’t do all those chores you just mentioned, who will? You know Tanko is so lazy, we will all would go hungry if I leave the farm in his care.
29. BAABA: I’m not asking you to leave the farm in anyone’s care. But Hindatu you need someone to help take some of the burden off you.
30. HINDATU: Someone? As in a maid? Or someone for the farm? You know we can’t afford to hire people right now.
31. BAABA: (INTERRUPTS HER) Hindatu, Hindatu, Hindatu. Haba, I am talking about a husband. You need a man to help you, to take care of you and your son.
32. HINDATU: (SIGHS HEAVILY) Baaba, the last thing I need now is a husband. You know my history with husbands.
33. BAABA: Which history? Is it your fault that your husband died? 34. HINDATU: Ehn, but what of the second one, Turaki, who threw me and my son
out of his house? 35. BAABA: (KISSING HER TEETH IN DISGUST) Mts! That one was a deceiver. A
devil. May God judge him. Still my daughter, you can’t just give up on life and love because of one bad man.
36. HINDATU: Baaba, don’t just bother trying to convince me. I don’t need anybody right now. I’m not ready and moreover, I don’t know if there are any decent men anymore. A man who will accept my son without compromise. What Turaki did to me and Zaradeen is still a shock.
37. BAABA: Hindatu, there are decent men. You are just not seeing them. Have you considered Kallamu?
38. HINDATU: Kallamu? Baaba, you expect me to marry Kallamu. 39. BAABA: Is there something wrong with that? Kallamu is a good man with a
very good heart. See the way he had stood by us since your father has been in the hospital. Such a loyal and dependable man.
40. HINDATU: So is that what makes him a good man for me?
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41. BAABA: Hindatu, I have known Kallamu for long. He has been your father’s friend for a very long time and since I’ve known him, he has always been a loving, caring and honest man. He told me he wants to marry you but you won’t listen to him.
42. HINDATU: Baaba, I’m not interested in Kallamu. 43. BAABA: You may not love him now but with time, the love will grow. 44. HINDATU: Hmm, I have heard that before. Baaba, I am not interested in
Kallamu and nothing can change my mind about that. Please don’t bring up this issue again. When I’m ready I’ll remarry.
45. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2 46. SFX: KNOCK ON THE DOOR 47. DIJE: (OFF MIC) Uwa, where are you? 48. UWA: (ON MIC) Come in. I’m inside. Who is it? 49. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 50. DIJE: (ON MIC) Haba Uwa, so you don’t recognize my voice anymore? 51. UWA: Dije, don’t be angry with me. You know a lot of people come here
to buy fura da nono. How are you? How’s your family? What of OC? 52. DIJE: I’m fine oh, Uwa. OC is in town doing his political things. 53. UWA: What of the new wife, Altine? How are you coping with her? 54. DIJE: Coping with her? Don’t you trust me? She is not staying in the
house oh. She has gone to hide in her townhouse. 55. UWA: Dije, you must have frustrated the poor woman. 56. DIJE: She should have known better before coming to share my husband
with me. Uwa, I don’t understand all the ladies of these days. Why can’t they just find their own husbands? Foolish husband snatchers.
57. UWA: They don’t consider it snatching oh, Dije. It is sharing. You are just sharing the man.
58. DIJE: Why would I want to share my husband? I’m not ready to do that and Altine now will see hell until she’ll beg for divorce and go her way.
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59. UWA: (CHUCKLES) Dije, you are funny oh. You don’t want to share still you snatched this same man from Ngozi. Or have you forgotten that you are a second wife?
60. DIJE: Look, Uwa. My own case was different. Ngozi is an Igbo woman. She must have known OC would need someone from here who knows how to cook our food. So I didn’t snatch OC from her. She should have expected it.
61. UWA: (LAUGHS) Dije, you can make all the excuses you want, it doesn’t change the fact that your husband has married a third wife. How is Ngozi taking all these?
62. DIJE: You should have known Ngozi by now. She is annoyingly calm about the whole thing.
63. UWA: Hindatu told me that she and Ngozi are setting up a women’s farmers’ association. Are you going to join?
64. DIJE: I don’t know yet. Ngozi told me about it but I am not a farmer. 65. UWA: I am not a farmer either but I plan to join. Hindatu advised me to
plant a vegetable garden in our compound but my Kallamu will not let me.
66. DIJE: Why not? 67. UWA: He said farming is for men and not for women like me. Meanwhile
he praises Hindatu to high heavens for being a good farmer. 68. DIJE: Ah, Uwa. You need to be careful‐o. 69. UWA: Careful about what? 70. DIJE: About that Hindatu woman. I heard that your husband Kallamu
wants to marry her. 71. UWA: (SURPRISED) Marry who? Where did you hear that? 72. DIJE: Oh‐oh, haven’t you heard? Everybody knows that he’s been
spending a lot of time at the MaiKano’s compound. 73. UWA: What do you mean Dije? I’m sure you don’t know what you are
talking about. Kallamu goes to their house because he’s like a father to them. Who doesn’t know that he and Alhaji Maikano are very close friends and since he’s been sick he has to look out for his family simply as a father should.
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74. DIJE: (MOCKING LAUGH) Father indeed. Don’t let them fool you‐o, Uwa. If not, it will be too late before you realize what’s really happening.
75. UWA: (OCCURS TO HER) So that is why he is always singing her praises. And yet he won’t let me do those exact things he says he likes about her.
76. DIJE: That’s how it starts, let me tell you. That’s exactly how OC used to praise Altine and before you knew it, he married her. Uwa, read the signs. I am talking from experience.
77. UWA: Dije, I can’t believe what my ears are hearing. 78. DIJE: A word is enough for the wise. Just be careful, Uwa. Don’t let them
deceive you. 79. UWA: Dije, nothing can happen between them. I will not let it happen. I
swear. 80. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 81. SFX: SOUND OF PLATES AND SPOONS BEING CLEARED AWAY 82. SAUDE: Sambo, you didn’t finish your food. 83. SAMBO: Saude, you always like to stuff me up. I’m full. 84. SAUDE: I hope you liked the food? 85. SAMBO: Of course I did. Is there ever a time I don’t enjoy your food, enh
Saude? 86. SAUDE: Well I get concerned when you don’t eat. 87. SAMBO: Saude, you know I have to get to the farm early today. I have to see
how the trees I planted are doing before I start the work of the day. 88. SAUDE: Trees. That’s all we hear these days. You’ve planted trees
everywhere. On the farm, around the house, everywhere. Why are you so sure that planting trees is such a good idea?
89. SAMBO: Saude, I’m surprised that you are asking. Have you forgotten the sandstorms so soon?
90. SAUDE: How can I? I was here, remember? But how can these little plants help if there’s to be another wind or sandstorm?
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91. SAMBO: These little plants will grow into trees, remember? They may not provide protection from wind or sandstorms today but in a few years time …
92. SAMBO: I know that. But should we just fold our hands and not do anything? There is a Kanuri proverb which says that the best time to plant a tree is twenty years ago but the next best time to do so is today.
93. SAUDE: Mnn. I know the saying. But my own is, it will be a long while before we can derive the benefits you spoke about from these tiny plants that are not yet trees.
94. SAMBO: What? Didn’t tell you? I got quick‐growing species. By God’s grace, ours won’t take twenty years to grow.
95. SAUDE: So you agree with me that if there is another sand or wind storm today these trees of yours are not yet ready to protect our house or farm. Shouldn’t we just follow everybody else and just leave?
96. SAMBO: (UPSET) Saude! Haba! Why are you so discouraging all of a sudden? I’m just trying my best to fight for our land, our home. We can’t all just give up our land for the desert to take over. What makes you so sure that the new place we’ll run to will not suffer sandstorms and dunes?
97. SAUDE: (DEEP SIGH) You are right. I’m sorry. I’m worried; that’s all. And this planting trees matter. Well, I’m an impatient person and trees take a long time to mature.
98. SAMBO: I know that it will take a while, but by the time the trees grow, we will all smile, I’m sure. Besides I’ve other plans. Plenty of plans.
99. SAUDE: (LAUGHS) Ehn‐hen? Plans. What plans? 100. SAMBO: Wait and see. There are those of us who have met and agreed in
this village that we will not allow the sand dunes to take over our homes and farms without a fight. Growing trees and hedges is fighting back.
101. SAUDE: You sound so sure. 102. SAMBO: I’m pretty sure. Though I’m still learning about the trees and all the
benefits. But what’s really the harm in trying? 103. SAUDE: Just don’t work yourself too hard today. And try to come back home
on time.
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104. SAMBO: I’ve heard. I need to go. 105. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 4 106. SFX: BACKGROUND SOUND OF VOICES. MARKET AMBIENCE. 107. HINDATU: Uwa, good afternoon. 108. UWA: (COLDLY) Hmm, hmm. Hindatu, good afternoon too. 109. HINDATU: How are you and the family? I came to buy some foodstuff for the
house. Let me have some fura da nono, please. 110. UWA: How much? 111. HINDATU: N100 112. UWA: Okay. 113. HINDATU: Uwa, have you considered the women farmers’ association I told
you about? 114. UWA: What about it? I’m not a farmer. Why should I join? 115. HINDATU: (SURPRISED) I’m surprised, Uwa, I thought you were really
interested when we first spoke about this. 116. UWA: Well, Kallamu does not think I should. He has forbidden me to join. 117. HINDATU: I’m really surprised. I talked to him about this. I even suggested the
vegetable garden to him as something his wives can do to contribute to the family’s income.
118. UWA: I’m surprised he didn’t listen. I thought you had the magic that makes him do anything you say.
119. HINDATU: What do you mean by that? Kallamu, your husband is a man and why would anyone control him, least of all, me?
120. UWA: You tell me. All he talks about is you. Is there something I should know about you two that you are not saying?
121. HINDATU: Uwa, I still don’t understand where all this is coming from. Are you insinuating that I have anything to do with your husband?
122. UWA: Why don’t you tell me? Everybody else thinks so. Is there any smoke without fire?
123. HINDATU: Uwa, this is really surprising. I can’t believe you would think so little of me.
124. UWA: I have nothing to say to you, Hindatu. Just leave my husband alone.
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125. HINDATU: (EXCLAIMS) Uwa! 126. UWA: Hindatu, don’t test my patience. Don’t try me at all. Just go before
the entire market knows what you’ve done. 127. HINDATU: I’m sorry you feel this way and I’m surprised you are saying this. But
I just want you to know you are mistaken and I hope it’s not too late before you learn the truth.
128. UWA: Truth! The only truth is for you to leave my husband alone. Please, Hindatu, leave now before I scream “husband snatcher”.
129. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO 130. RIBADU (NARRATOR): Welcome back, friends. It seems like there is trouble in
paradise. Hindatu has had few conflicts in Kakaran Jatau, but it seems Uwa is about to change that. What will Kallamu do when he finds out what Uwa has done? What about Sambo and his fixation on trees? Will the trees actually become useful in the long run? You can only answer these questions if you continue to listen to this program on radio, same time, same station. We are going to leave our stories for a while and bring in our climate change expert who will shed more light on the topic we will be discussing today. But before then, let’s listen to this song. It’s one of my favorites.
131. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER ... 132. RIBADU: Friends, when the drum beats change we must change our dance
steps. “In Kidiya chanza … that’s still the program you are listening to and I have with me in the studio, Hajia Mariam. Sannu, Hajia.
133. MARIAM: Sannu, Ribadu. It’s good to be back on this program. 134. RIBADU: I’ve been coming to the agric office recently without seeing you
there. What’s happening? 135. MARIAM: Nothing. Baba Ribadu. I was on leave. 136. RIBADU: Is that so? Did you travel? 137. MARIAM: Yes, I did. As my children were also on holiday, I took them to visit
my parents in the village. 138. RIBADU: That is very good. Did they learn how to farm a little? (CHUCKLES) I
fully endorse children spending some time in the village during vacations and learning how to farm.
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139. MIRIAM: I agree with you. We all did some farming. In fact, I want to congratulate you for this program. Many farmers in the village listen to it. And since I returned we’ve been very busy with farmers coming into the office to get more information. I believe the rush is because of this program. Congratulations, Ribadu, you are doing a great job.
140. RIBADU: Thank you very much, Hajia Mariam. I’m glad to hear that people are really listening to the program.
141. MARIAM: I think they have good reason to. it’s a very educative program. 142. RIBADU: And rewarding too, my friends, don’t forget that someone will win a
gift for correctly answering our quiz correctly. So please listen carefully to this discussion and you just might win something.
143. MARIAM: That’s nice. So what are we discussing today? 144. RIBADU: Today, I want us to talk about a topic that came out from our
stories. I mean the role of trees and why we should plant them on your land and near our homesteads.
145. MARIAM: Oh, agroforestry. 146. RIBADU: Yes, agroforestry. Sambo in our story is so interested in planting
trees and his wife is wondering if this is a good idea in the long run. I’m sure some of my listeners are also wondering the same thing.
147. MARIAM: Ribadu, I’m sure the idea of planting trees on farmland is not a strange or new concept to farmers. We just need to remind them of the benefits so that those who have trees on their farms will not cut it all down for firewood, and others who don’t have any will plant some urgently.
148. RIBADU: You are very right about trees on farm not being a strange idea. I know that in some places in fact, some trees are sacred and people attach a lot of importance to them.
149. MARIAM: Oh sure. One example is the Gààwóó tree (Faidherbia albida). These trees add to soil fertility by dropping their leaves which then decay on the soil. And you know, during the dry seasons, these trees provide good shade both on the farm and around our homes.
150. RIBADU: I used to know of Dùnkúú, Búlángàà, Tàmàníí trees just to mention a few when I was growing up. But right now, most of these trees are
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aging and people cut them down when clearing their land or they use the trees as firewood. Also people prefer to plant crops on their land than plant trees.
151. MARIAM: Well, perhaps if people can see the benefit of planting trees, they will.
152. RIBADU: In our story, Sambo was talking about planting trees to keep out livestock. What do you think of that?
153. MARIAM: I completely endorse his plan. Livestock are extremely important to people in the north, and free grazing, allowing cattle, sheep and goats to range at will, is the common practice. But just like in Sambo’s case, these livestock can destroy growing crops. To prevent this, most farmers collect wood and crop residues to construct temporary barriers or dead fences around the gardens. But this has some disadvantages.
154. RIBADU: I can imagine. Labour will be one of the disadvantages and that is really scarce and expensive around here.
155. MARIAM: True, also, putting up dead fences requires wood and this encourages people to still cut down trees and we don’t want that. Therefore, the solution is to put up what we call a “live fence.” That is, plant trees in rows around the farm to serve as fences. An example of such trees is Ádúúwàà.
156. RIBADU: I see. 157. MARIAM: Apart from trees being useful as living fences, they also serve as
windbreaks. That is, the trees help to reduce the impact of strong winds which can have a damaging effect on the farmlands or homes that are in the direct path of the winds. And if you are sure to plant some fruit trees, you can actually harvest the ripened fruits and sell and make yourself some money. Some other trees yield nuts, vegetable butters and ingredients for making soup. If you plant these kinds, you’ll make some money from such trees. Frankly, trees help to hold back the desert which has been taking over previously arable lands in our region.
158. RIBADU: Aha! Sounds like Sambo got sound advice after all. 159. MARIAM: Oh yes, he did. You know that most of the time, people cut down
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existing trees for firewood or to make charcoal. If anyone is still doing that, they should desist from doing so. Just look at how long a tree takes to grow.
160. RIBADU: But, Dr. Mariam, if we don’t cut down trees for firewood, what else can poor people like us who can’t afford kerosene or gas use to cook?
161. MARIAM: There are other fuel sources that are more environmentally friendly. There are fuel‐efficient stoves also that cut down considerably the amount of wood or charcoal required to cook for the family. I promise to talk about these alternatives sometime in the future if you invite me to discuss it. But as we are talking about the value of planting trees, I’ll add that it is possible to plant trees for fuelwood. However, these are not cut down entirely as some people do now, but instead branches are trimmed carefully from time to time and these can be taken home for use or sold as firewood without harming the trees.
162. RIBADU: You have really done well to convince me and my friends out there I believe, on the importance of trees and the importance of planting them on our farms and near our homes. I wish we could talk more on this issue but sadly our time is all gone. Thank you, Dr. Mariam, for coming to talk to us today.
163. MARIAM: You are very welcome, Baba Ribadu. 164. RIBADU: Okay, friends, it’s time for today’s quiz and the question is simple. If
you’ve listened attentively, this is easy. Okay, here is the question. “Name 3 advantages of planting trees on your farm?” Again, “3 advantages of planting trees on your farm?” Send your answers to this radio station or number via sms; you just might be a lucky winner.
165. MARIAM: I’m sure everyone will get that one right. 166. RIBADU: Well, we can only have one winner. So the earlier you send your
answers the better. Okay, it’s time to announce the winner for last week’s quiz. The winner is …………………………………… please come to…………………………………. to redeem your prize. It’s really time to go. Remember, it’s In Kidiya Chanza …. Join us next week, same time,
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and same station and don’t forget to tell your friends about the program. Bye.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Rebecca Ojedele of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International and Dr. John Ajigo from Nigerian Environmental Study/Action Team (NEST)/Building Nigeria’s Response to Climate Change (BNRCC).
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EPISODE 18
TOPIC – GOOD METHODS FOR STORING PRODUCE
Characters
Narrator ‐ Ribadu Uwa Kallamu Bulus Rakiya Hindatu Dorcas Climate Change expert (Yusuf)
1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER … 2. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5
AND UNDER ... 3. NARRATOR (RIBADU): WELCOME, FRIENDS, TO TODAY’S SEGMENT OF IN KIDIYA
CHANZA … A DRAMA PROGRAM ABOUT PEOPLE JUST LIKE US, MEN AND WOMEN DEALING WITH CHANGE IN A POSITIVE WAY. MY NAME IS RIBADU AND I’M A FULANI HERDSMAN LIKE MY FATHER BEFORE ME. THIS WEEK, BY POPULAR DEMAND, WE’LL BE DISCUSSING A TOPIC THAT I’M SURE WILL INTEREST ALL OF YOU FRIENDS AND LISTENERS. I SAID BY POPULAR DEMAND BECAUSE A LOT OF FARMERS AND EVEN NON‐FARMERS ALIKE HAVE BEEN ASKING FOR IT. THE TOPIC IS “HOW TO PROPERLY STORE OUR PRODUCE.” THIS HAS BEEN AN ISSUE OF CONCERN FOR SO LONG BECAUSE MANY PEOPLE LOSE THE RESULT FROM THEIR HARDWORK, THEIR PRECIOUS HARVEST, TO PESTS AND INSECTS. AS THE CLIMATE IS CHANGING IT SEEMS THERE ARE MORE INSECTS AND PESTS TO DEAL WITH. BUT TODAY AN EXPERT FROM THE AGRIC OFFICE WILL BE HERE TO DISCUSS HOW TO STORE OUR CROPS. BEFORE THIS HAPPENS THOUGH, WE NEED TO FIND OUT WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE LIVES OF OUR FRIENDS IN KAWORANA AND KAKARAN JATAU.
4. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ...
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SCENE 1: 5. SFX: KITCHEN. SOUND OF KITCHEN UTENSILS BEING USED 6. KALLAMU: (CALLS OUT, OFF MIC) Uwa! Uwa!! Where are you? 7. UWA: (ON MIC) In the kitchen. 8. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND SLIGHT OUTDOOR NOISE 9. KALLAMU: (ON MIC) Oh, here you are. What are you cooking? 10. UWA: (ON MIC) Nothing. It’s not my turn to cook. It’s Lami’s turn. 11. KALLAMU: (GRUMBLES) I’m really hungry. Do you know what she made? 12. UWA: I don’t know. I am just making the fura da nono that I’ll sell today in
the market. By the way, where did you go so early that you didn’t eat breakfast before leaving the house?
13. KALLAMU: I went to Alhaji Maikano’s house. 14. UWA: (COLDLY) Alhaji Maikano’s house. Why? Early this morning? 15. KALLAMU: (SURPRISED) Why are you questioning me? Am I not allowed to
move freely from my own house? 16. UWA: That’s not the issue Kallamu. I just want to know why you are
always in that house. And I mean always! 17. KALLAMU: Uwa, you know Alhaji Maikano is sick and he is my friend. Is it not
only human that I check on his family? 18. UWA: Won’t it be good if you are really checking on the family? 19. KALLAMU: What do you mean by that, Uwa? 20. UWA: Kallamu, don’t pretend you don’t know what I mean. Everyone
knows you are always in that house to visit Hindatu. Do you want to deny it? Try now!
21. KALLAMU: What’s your problem Uwa? Where did you hear such an absurd thing from?
22. UWA: (RAISING HER VOICE) Enh enh! I know you will not tell the truth. I know you will deny it.
23. KALLAMU: Uwa, don’t you dare raise your voice at me. I am still your husband in this house.
24. UWA: I am not raising my voice and don’t try to change the subject. Is it true? Are you planning to marry Hindatu?
25. KALLAMU: Uwa, I didn’t know you’ve started listening to gossip. 26. UWA: It is not gossip if it’s true!
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27. KALLAMU: I have had enough of this nonsense. It is not your concern if I choose to take another wife.
28. UWA: (EXCLAIMS) Finally! The truth at last! So this was what all the praises have been about enh? Hindatu this! Hindatu that!! I should have known. All the signs have been there! I just didn’t see them.
29. KALLAMU: I am not admitting anything Uwa. Why are you so troublesome? Lami does not give me as much grief as you do.
30. UWA: That’s Lami. I am not Lami and I will not stand here and let someone come and ruin my marriage.
31. KALLAMU: (CALMLY) Uwa! I have nothing to do with Hindatu. Okay? At least you will believe me, your husband, rather than listen to all those rumour mongers.
32. UWA: I just hope the rumours don’t turn out to be true. 33. KALLAMU: Now drop this matter, right now. (FIRMLY) In fact next time I hear
you listen to gossip, I won’t let you leave this house for a whole year.
34. UWA: But you won’t do that! 35. KALLAMU: Try me. 36. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2 37. SFX: OUTDOORS. MOTORCYCLE ROARS. HORNS BLARING. 38. SFX: KNOCK ON THE DOOR 39. RAKIYA: (ON MIC) Yes? Who is it? 40. BULUS: (OFF MIC) Rakiya, open the door. It’s me, Bulus! 41. SFX: DOOR OPENS 42. RAKIYA: (SURPRISED, ON MIC) Bulus, what are you doing here? 43. BULUS: (COMING ON MIC) Rakiya! Are you not happy to see me? 44. RAKIYA: Happy to see you? Why should I be happy to see you? Bulus, please
I don’t want trouble. What do you want? 45. BULUS: (ON MIC) Rakiya, at least allow me to come inside. For old time
sakes. 46. RAKIYA: (PAUSE) Okay! Come in. 47. BULUS: Thank you!
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48. SFX: DOOR CLOSES 49. RAKIYA: So what is it this time, Bulus? What do you want from me? 50. BULUS: Why are you being so harsh on me, Rakiya? Why? What have I done
to you? 51. RAKIYA: You are asking me what you’ve done, Bulus? After your wife
colluded with your mother to disgrace me? You are still asking me what you did? In fact you did nothing. You told me you loved me but when it really mattered, you were nowhere to be found.
52. BULUS: Rakiya, don’t take it out on me. I tried to apologize to you for my mother’s behaviour but you wouldn’t listen to me.
53. RAKIYA: Why would I listen? Your mother called me all sort of names. 54. BULUS: I’m really sorry, Rakiya. My mother is old. And you know how old
people behave. 55. RAKIYA: That doesn’t mean she should now call me names. 56. BULUS: I’m so sorry on her behalf. You know my mum is so used to Dorcas,
my wife. So she gets very defensive when she sees anything that makes Dorcas unhappy.
57. RAKIYA: Okay, so what do you want? You are still married to Dorcas and your mother is still alive. Nothing has changed.
58. BULUS: I have. Rakiya, I am ready to remedy any hurt I’ve caused you. All you have to do is give me a chance.
59. RAKIYA: Bulus, please spare me. I have enough on my plate right now. I don’t need any more trouble from you.
60. BULUS: What is the matter, Rakiya? 61. RAKIYA: It’s nothing you can help me with. 62. BULUS: What do you mean? Do you think I’m the same poor man you
knew? Don’t underestimate me oh. 63. RAKIYA: (LAUGHS) Please spare me I beg you, Bulus. 64. BULUS: (SERIOUSLY) Don’t you believe me? Who do you think owns the
motorcycle outside? It’s mine! Mine! 65. RAKIYA: Where did you get the motorcycle from? 66. BULUS: I bought it. And I use it for commercial purposes. I make a lot of
money off that bike. Trust me when I say I can take care of you.
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67. RAKIYA: If that’s the case, then I need money to pay my labourers. They have stopped working on my farm because I’ve not been able to pay them.
68. BULUS: How much do you need? 69. RAKIYA: N10,000 70. BULUS: (EXCLAIMS) N10,000? (STUTTERS) What, all that for labour? 71. RAKIYA: (INTERRUPTS) I’m not forcing you, Bulus. If you don’t have, please
don’t bother. 72. BULUS: (BRAVING UP) Of course I have. I was just surprised; that’s all. 73. RAKIYA: So when am I getting the money? 74. BULUS: Now! Do you think I was joking when I said I’m here to take of you? 75. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 76. SFX: POUNDING. SOUND OF MORTAR AND PESTLE 77. KALLAMU: (COMING ON MIC) Hindatu! Asaalam aleikun. 78. SFX: PAUSE. POUNDING STOPS. 79. HINDATU: (ON MIC) Ma aleikun salaam, Kallamu. 80. KALLAMU: (ON MIC) Why are you the one pounding? What about Sahura and
the young girls? 81. HINDATU: They are all out looking for water. My father said he wanted ground
rice (tuwon shinkafa). That is what I’m pounding. 82. KALLAMU: But why don’t you take it to the mill to grind? This is hard sweaty
work for an educated lady like you. 83. HINDATU: (LAUGHS) Ah, Mallam Kallamu, don’t make me laugh. So educated
people should not prepare food? And I didn’t take it to the mill because we have to conserve money and resources…. You know that, Mallam Kallamu. And Baba wants to eat tuwo.
84. KALLAMU: I see. At least he’s eating, which means he must be getting better. 85. HINDATU: We pray he will soon be well and return home, Insha Allah. 86. KALLAMU: Allah wu akbar. 87. SFX: POUNDING CONTINUES 88. KALLAMU: So Hindatu, have you thought about what I spoke to you about? 89. HINDATU: What is that?
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90. KALLAMU: Don’t tell me you’ve forgotten so soon. Or do you think I was joking? I’m very serious, Hindatu.
91. SFX: POUNDING STOPS 92. HINDATU: Kallamu, leave that talk. I don’t have time for that kind of talk
today. You can see that I’m very busy. 93. KALLAMU: I know that you are busy. But you can still talk to me. 94. HINDATU: (HARSHLY) Kallamu, I already told you I’m not interested. I never
will be interested in you. So please stop asking me to marry you. In fact, what are you even doing here now? Weren’t you here just this morning?
95. KALLAMU: (SURPRISED) Hindatu, why are you talking to me like this? What have I done to deserve all this harshness from you?
96. HINDATU: (SOFTENING) I’m sorry if I sound hard. I don’t mean to insult you. 97. KALLAMU: What’s the matter, Hindatu? Is something bothering you? 98. HINDATU: Kallamu, I really need you to stop coming here to see me. There are
rumours everywhere that you and I are in a relationship and we both know that is not true.
99. KALLAMU: Hindatu, you know that people will always talk. But you shouldn’t be listening to gossip.
100. HINDATU: I’m not listening to gossip. But the rumours are hurting people. Your wife heard it and she was very angry. She insulted me in the market.
101. KALLAMU: Which of my wives? 102. HINDATU: Uwa. Not that I blame her. Nobody will be happy to hear that their
husband is having an affair with someone else. And that’s why I want you to stop coming here. There’s nothing between the two of us. Let’s stop giving people the wrong impression.
103. KALLAMU: (INDIGNANTLY) Wrong impression or not, Uwa has no business insulting you. She has been making a fuss all day. I should have known that she must have done something stupid. I really will ground her. She will not leave that house for a whole year.
104. HINDATU: Kallamu, that is not the way to handle this matter. The only solution is for you to stop coming here. At least, not when Alhaji Maikano is not around. Stop coming to visit me.
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105. KALLAMU: But Hindatu, we shouldn’t let what people are saying destroy our friendship. Really, we shouldn’t.
106. HINDATU: I’m sorry Kallamu, but I cannot continue like this. I still have a lot to do in this town. I have to set up a women farmers’ association. Nobody will join if I’m perceived as a husband snatcher. So please, if you care as much as you say you do, you really will stop coming around me.
107. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 4 108. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 109. DORCAS: (SURPRISED) Bulus, what are you doing at home? I thought you’d
still be out making money with the motorcycle. 110. BULUS: I had to come home early, Dorcas. I don’t know what is wrong with
me. Since morning my body has been itching me. 111. DORCAS: (ALARMED) Itching you? Why? Did you eat something? 112. BULUS: I really don’t know why. I noticed it yesterday. But today, it has
really gotten worse. 113. DORCAS: When did you notice it yesterday? You should have said something,
Bulus. 114. BULUS: I didn’t think it was a big thing. It was after I got back from the farm
yesterday. 115. DORCAS: Oh! You went to the farm yesterday? I didn’t know! 116. BULUS: I went in the afternoon to spray the chemical that I bought to kill
the weeds. 117. DORCAS: You bought it and you sprayed by yourself? I thought I told you not
to do it yourself? Bulus, see what you’ve caused now. Please dress up, let’s go to the hospital.
118. BULUS: Hospital? I can’t go to the hospital! 119. DORCAS: Why not? You are complaining of itches and you don’t want to go
to the hospital? Do you know what effect that chemical is having on you? I’m sure you didn’t wear anything to protect yourself.
120. BULUS: Dorcas, please drop the matter. I’ll be fine. But I don’t want to go to the hospital. By the way, how is the farm today?
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121. DORCAS: Good. I want to start harvesting tomorrow. I need some money to hire hands that will help me with the harvest.
122. BULUS: What harvest? Your crops can’t be ready so soon, surely? 123. DORCAS: But they are, Bulus. You forget we planted the early‐maturing
varieties we purchased from the Agric department in town. We’re harvesting our first cowpea and soya crop, Bulus.
124. BULUS: (IRRITATED) How are you going to store them? Everything will get bad before you can even sell them. You know what all those insects did to my crops last season? Have you forgotten so soon?
125. DORCAS: Bulus, don’t worry about that. I can properly store all my harvest. 126. BULUS: Oh, because my mother gave you a piece of land and you’ve
planted some things, you think you are an expert farmer now? You don’t want to listen to me anymore. Do you know how long I’ve been farming?
127. DORCAS: I didn’t mean to disrespect you, Bulus. It’s just that an expert came to our meeting the other day and taught us how to properly store our harvest so that it won’t get destroyed.
128. BULUS: Oh, I see. 129. DORCAS: So will you give me the money? 130. BULUS: What money? 131. DORCAS: Money for labourers. 132. BULUS: I don’t have money. I said I can’t go to the hospital. Do you think it’s
because I don’t want to go? 133. DORCAS: So what happened to all your money? Is that not why we bought
the motorbike so that we can have money in this house? 134. BULUS: Well, I am the head of this family and I have just said there is no
money. What do you want me to do? 135. DORCAS: But what happened to the money? Where do you want me to get
money to work on the farm, Bulus? 136. BULUS: Borrow it from yourself, Dorcas. I’ll pay you back. 137. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO 138. RIBADU (NARRATOR): Hmm … Bulus seems to be up to his old tricks again. I
thought he had changed for the better but it seems that’s not the case. So he is back with Rakiya and that one seems ready to take as
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much from him this time as possible. I just pray that Dorcas can handle this when she finds out. There are more intrigues and you can only find out if you don’t miss a single episode of this program. It’s still In Kidiya Chanza … and as always, we have an expert in the studio. Today, it is to discuss the matter of storage. How to properly store our farm produce so that they are safe from bugs and diseases. Please stay with us, alert your friends to tune in, while we listen to this song.
139. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER ... 140. RIBADU: Welcome back, friends. It’s still In Kidiya Chanza … and if you are
just joining us, we have heard from our friends in the drama and it’s time to talk with Mallam Yusuf here. Welcome, Yusuf.
141. YUSUF: Thank you, Ribadu. What are we discussing today? 142. RIBADU: Storage. How to properly store crops so farmers will not lose all
their hard work to pests and insects. 143. YUSUF: I agree that it is a very important topic. I even think that everything
we’ve been discussing for the past weeks comes down to this. If a farmer learns how to deal with climate change and finally produces good crops and a good harvest, he might end up with nothing if his crops are not properly stored. You would have noticed that as the climate changes, bugs, insects and pests increase. This is dangerous to our livelihood as farmers.
144. RIBADU: True. True. The hope of every farmer is to grow enough food and store some so his family has enough to eat during the rainy season.
145. YUSUF: (INTERRUPTING HIM) And also to sell later when the price is good … 146. RIBADU: Of course. I remember what happened to Kallamu in the drama
some time ago when he thought to hold on to his cowpeas until he could sell them at a good price during the rainy season, but later found every single one eaten and destroyed by weevils.
147. YUSUF: Trust me, Ribadu, a lot of farmers identify with that Kallamu story. And it is the fear of insects destroying their stored produce that makes farmers sell off all of the farm yield as soon as it is harvested, often very cheaply, only to buy the same produce for the feeding of their families at very high costs.
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148. RIBADU: I’m sure that my friends are listening attentively now. What storage methods will you suggest, Yusuf? We used to store grains that we will eat at home in granaries but they are no longer safe from bugs …
149. YUSUF: It is important to store dry produce in tightly‐covered containers. These can be made of plastic or metal or earthenware or clay. The containers should be placed on a raised pallet.
150. RIBADU: Thank you, Yusuf, for making this point, because some of us just pour the grains into the granary like that and just cover with the thatch roof. So if we put them in tightly‐covered containers, they will be safe from attack? Or is there anything else we must do?
151. YUSUF: Yes, there are several effective ways of storage. I am simply going to remind farmers of the same old methods our fathers have used. Modern methods are good no doubt, but the old traditional methods are also very effective.
152. RIBADU: Okay, remind us … 153. YUSUF: Do you remember putting dry peppers in the bags with dry grains or
cowpeas or groundnuts to repel the insects from coming close to the produce? This is a common and effective practice. This also repels rodents such as mice or rats from coming close to your store. But you must put the pepper before the grains get infected, because peppers do not kill the insects or their larvae.
154. RIBADU: I know of that. Some people even use the dry little pepper crushed or ground into powder which they then mix with the grains. But for how long can this pepper prevent pests from entering into the bags?
155. YUSUF: It is effective for about 4‐5 months. You can use this method for produce you want to sell, or even for grains you just want to keep in the house for gradual consumption. Be careful when applying the pepper. Cover your nose and wash your hands thoroughly so as not to get the pepper on your skin or eyes.
156. RIBADU: May God save us from that torment. Pepper in the eyes will not be funny at all.
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157. YUSUF: You are telling me! There is another plant people use to repel bugs. Hyptis Spicigera or Beniseed (Hausas call it Dan Fadama). Do you know it? It has a bitter taste and strong repulsive smell that prevents insects from attacking stored grains, especially cowpeas.
158. RIBADU: I know Dai fadama and I know a lot of people that use it to prevent insects.
159. YUSUF: It is very effective in repelling insects. Again, although it does not kill the insects, it stops them from getting near the grains. What you do is dry the leaves, grind them into a powder form which you’ll mix in with the grains.
160. RIBADU: And it has no effect on the grains themselves? 161. YUSUF: No. (PAUSE) Another method is something called “triple bagging.”
Have you heard if it? 162. RIBADU: No. what is that? 163. YUSUF: It is a very effective method of storing crops that we are proposing
at the agric office. The triple bagging method is storing produce in a bag that has three layers of polythene. In other words, you put the product inside one bag and staple or stitch it shut. Then you put that bag inside another bag. Finally, you put those two bags inside a third bag, each time stitching shut the bags. The bags come in 50 kg and 100kg sizes. You pour clean dry grains such as cowpeas, maize and groundnut into these bags and seal them immediately. It is very effective. Bugs cannot survive in that bag, I tell you.
164. RIBADU: Are these bags available in the market? 165. YUSUF: Yes, they are available at stores where agric materials are sold.
Come to the agriculture office if you can’t find it in your locality. 166. RIBADU: Please, Doctor Yusuf, I’d like you to recommend some modern
methods that poor farmers like me can try if possible. 167. YUSUF: Well, the triple bagging is a modern method. Other modern
methods include the use of certain chemicals and insecticides which are effective ways to safeguard agric produce from insect attack while in storage. These are quite popular among farmers. Since some of these chemicals can be poisonous, I like to caution farmers to get advice from experts on how to handle and use them.
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168. RIBADU: I’ve been reluctant myself to use chemicals since I started hearing of entire families wiped out after eating a meal of beans that was preserved with poisonous chemicals.
169. YUSUF: That is why it is important to learn how to apply them from an expert. Farmers should talk to the agric offices to find out about effective fumigants and other storage chemicals. I’ll strongly advise that anyone who wants to use these chemicals should meet an expert for advice on how to use such.
170. RIBADU: Does that mean that they have side effects? 171. YUSUF: Yes, they can have negative effects on human health. They are
poisonous and should not be inhaled. Anyone using them should protect the eye, nose and skin before spraying, and wash up afterwards. Ask your agric office about any other precautions that might be necessary.
172. RIBADU: What about the grains that are being treated? 173. YUSUF: Such treated sacks of grains should be stored in a separate location
from the sleeping or living area. Also, grains that have been treated in this way must be brought out and aired in the open for a minimum of 2 to 3 days before processing for consumption. Alright let’s see now … what other methods of storage can I remember … Umm …
174. RIBADU: In some of my travels as a herdsman, I’ve seen farmers put harvested cassava in the ground for storage till it’s time to use.
175. YUSUF: That’s right. But the roots deteriorate after ripening, so should be used soon. Sweet potatoes can be stored in unlined storage pits for a few weeks, though market value will deteriorate. Soil banks also work to store sweet potatoes. But for both sweet potatoes and yams, it is most effective to build a storage structure. Farmers can build a mud brick hut with several levels of shelves, on which the yams or sweet potatoes are placed, so that each tuber can be inspected individually on a regular basis. If at all possible, the tubers should not touch each other. The hut should have regular openings to ensure good ventilation. No damaged yams are stored, and inspected yams which show damage should be disposed of. This is
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an important principle for all storage: never store damaged produce. Farmers can also slice roots and tubers into chips and leave them to dry. They can store the dry chips which can be later turned into flour. For some crops, underground storage can minimize pest damage, especially when underground storage prevents damage from serious above‐ground pests.
176. RIBADU: I’m sure our friends have learnt a lot of valuable lessons today. Thank you for coming, Yusuf.
177. YUSUF: You are welcome, Ribadu. 178. RIBADU: Okay, friends, it’s time for today’s quiz, and the question is simple.
If you’ve listened attentively, this is easy. Okay, here is the question: “What are two effective methods of properly storing our grains?” Again, “What are two effective methods of properly storing our grains?” Send your answers to this radio station and next episode you just might be a lucky winner.
179. YUSUF: They’ll get that one easy. I think we have mentioned more than 4 methods today.
180. RIBADU: Yes, we have, and there certainly will be a lucky winner next week. It’s really time to go. Remember the program is In Kidiya Chanza. Join us next week, same time, and same station, and don’t forget to tell your friends about the program. Bye.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Rebecca Ojedele of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 19
Topic: MARKETING PRODUCE
Characters Narrator ‐ Ribadu Kallamu Uwa Babagana Tanko Hundatu Climate Change expert (Mariam)
1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER … 2. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5
AND UNDER … 3. NARRATOR (RIBADU): WELCOME, FRIENDS, TO TODAY’S SEGMENT OF IN KIDIYA
CHANZA … A DRAMA PROGRAM ABOUT PEOPLE JUST LIKE US, MEN AND WOMEN DEALING WITH CHANGE IN A POSITIVE WAY. MY NAME IS RIBADU AND I’M A FULANI HERDSMAN LIKE MY FATHER BEFORE ME. I WANT TO SAY A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU LISTENERS. I’VE BEEN RECEIVING LOTS OF COMMENTS EVERY WEEK AND MOST OF THEM POSITIVE. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING. MOST IMPORTANTLY, I HOPE YOU ALL ARE PUTTING INTO PRACTICE WHAT YOU’VE BEEN LEARNING. AND REMEMBER THAT THERE ARE ALWAYS GIFTS TO BE WON EVERY WEEK. ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS ANSWER THE TEASER THAT I’LL BE ASKING AT THE END OF THE PROGRAM. TODAY WILL BE ANOTHER INTERESTING PROGRAM. WE’LL HAVE A CLIMATE CHANGE EXPERT IN THE STUDIO WHO WILL SENSITIZE US ON ANOTHER IMPORTANT ISSUE. BUT FIRST WE’LL VISIT OUR FRIENDS IN KAKARAN JATAU AND SEE HOW THEY ARE COPING WITH CLIMATE CHANGE.
4. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ... SCENE 1: 5. SFX: DISTANT SOUND OF EXCITED MALE VOICES CHATTING AND
LAUGHING. A NEARBY BOARD GAME WITH RANDOM COMMENTS.
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6. BABAGANA: Good afternoon, sir. Please, I was directed to you by a friend of mine. I suppose you are Tanko, Alhaji Maikano’s ward?
7. TANKO: (SUSPICIOUS) You know so much about me, my fellow. Yet you haven’t told me who are.
8. BABAGANA: My name is Babagana. I am from the neighbouring village; my cousin is Suleiman, your friend. Please may I speak with you privately?
9. TANKO: Okay. Excuse me, my friends. Let me attend to this young man. 10. VOICE: Okay! 11. VOICE: Don’t stay long! 12. VOICE: Come back and let me finish you today! 13. TANKO: I’ll be back. Come with me, Babagana. 14. SFX: FEET SHUFFLING 15. TANKO: Yes, Babagana. What do you want from me? 16. BABAGANA: I just arrived in town, Tanko, and my cousin Suleiman said that if I
meet you, you will be able to assist me. 17. TANKO: You still haven’t told me what you want. 18. BABAGANA: I need a job. 19. TANKO: And what makes you think that I can get you one? Or do you think
that I’m the owner of this joint? 20. BABAGANA: No, Tanko. I need a job on your farm. 21. TANKO: (LAUGHS) My farm? The farm is not mine. It is Alhaji Maikano’s
farm. And you know that he is still in the hospital. 22. BABAGANA: I know that he is in the hospital and I’m sorry about that. I hope he
is getting better? 23. TANKO: He will be back home soon, I heard. 24. BABAGANA: Suleiman told me that you are the oldest man in the household.
Definitely you’ll be the one running the household, including the farm, in Alhaji’s absence.
25. TANKO: (BRAGGING) Of course I run the household. It’s just that Hindatu, Alhaji’s first daughter, is in town now. We run the household together.
26. BABAGANA: That means you can help?
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27. TANKO: Well, what can I say? You are from my good friend Suleiman and you look strong enough to work on the farm. It’s not as if we don’t need help, but there’s no money to pay any outside labour.
28. BABAGANA: Tanko, all I need is a place to stay and food of course … 29. TANKO: You want to work on our farm and live in our house at no extra
cost? 30. BABAGANA: Well, if you can give me a small amount of money weekly, based on
the volume of work I do on the farm, I’ll be glad. 31. TANKO: Fair enough. When are you willing to start? 32. BABAGANA: Right now, if you don’t mind. 33. TANKO: Okay. I am not going to the house right now. As you can see, I’m still
having a drink with my friends. Do you want to join us? 34. BABAGANA: No, Tanko. I’m fine. 35. TANKO: Okay, you can either wait for me or go ahead to the house and
introduce yourself to Sahura, my sister. 36. BABAGANA: I’ll wait for you. I’ll just sit under the tree. 37. TANKO: Okay. I’ll call you when I’m leaving. 38. BABAGANA: Thanks a lot. I appreciate this a lot, Tanko. 39. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2 40. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 41. KALLAMU: (FIERCELY) There you are, Uwa. 42. UWA: Kallamu, what is the matter? 43. KALLAMU: Where were you throughout yesterday? I didn’t see you after I got
back. 44. UWA: You didn’t look for me. I was here. You were probably in Lami’s
quarters throughout. Maybe that’s why you didn’t see me. 45. KALLAMU: Don’t get all smart on me, Uwa. What is all these nonsense I’ve
been hearing? What happened between you and Hindatu? 46. UWA: (HISSES) Pssshhh!!! Why are you bringing up that woman’s name,
this afternoon? As you can see, I am just coming back from the market. I am tired.
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47. KALLAMU: Uwa, are you alright? Do you realize that you are talking to me Kallamu, your husband?
48. UWA: Oh, sorry oh. But why are you so angry? Did someone annoy you from wherever it is you are coming from?
49. KALLAMU: Don’t ask me questions. What did you say to Hindatu? Answer me, Uwa!
50. UWA: I didn’t say anything I shouldn’t have said. I only told her to leave my husband alone and go and look for her own man elsewhere.
51. KALLAMU: But I told you there was nothing between me and Hindatu. Why did you still go ahead to accuse her? Even after knowing that the accusation was untrue?
52. UWA: Well, I don’t regret setting her straight. But if you must know, I already spoke to her before you told me that there was nothing between you two.
53. KALLAMU: So are you justifying your thoughtless actions? Even if there is something going on between me and Hindatu, must you go around insulting her?
54. UWA: Oh, so she has come crying to you? Well, in my defense, I didn’t insult her. I only told her the truth. I won’t sit here and watch one woman worm her way into my home while pretending to be my friend! Never. I won’t.
55. KALLAMU: What’s wrong with you, Uwa? Are you the only wife I have? Didn’t you meet Lami in this house?
56. UWA: My case is different. 57. KALLAMU: How is it different? Why is Lami not jealous of Hindatu like you? She
even took you in gladly when I married you. 58. UWA: Oh, you think Lami is happy with the talk of you marrying Hindatu?
Lami that has even gone to ask a mallam to pray against Hindatu. 59. KALLAMU: (SURPRISED) What do you mean by that nonsense? Where will Lami
get such money from? 60. UWA: She sold her jewellery. Oh, you think because she is not saying
anything she is happy? Don’t be deceived, Kallamu. Because I am upfront, you think that I’m the bad person, ba?
61. KALLAMU: I see. So you and Lami are plotting against me now, abi?
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62. UWA: Plotting against you? We are not. We will not just allow … 63. KALLAMU: Shut up, Uwa. Since I’ve allowed you to start selling fura da nono,
you have become very disrespectful. 64. UWA: What do you mean? What has my fura da nono got to do with this? 65. KALLAMU: The market has influenced you. The little money you’ve been
making is getting into your head. I already warned you that the next time you misbehave, you will remain in this house for a whole year.
66. UWA: But Kallamu, what have I done to deserve this? You can’t do this. 67. KALLAMU: Watch me. 68. UWA: Kallamu, please now. I can’t stay indoors for a whole year. Please
now. At least now, I know that you and Hindatu have nothing. I promise I will go and apologize to her.
69. KALLAMU: It’s too late for that now. You are grounded! 70. UWA: But Kallamu … 71. KALLAMU: Don’t beg me, Uwa. After you stay home for a year, you’ll learn to
respect your husband. 72. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 73. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 74. HINDATU: (SURPRISED) Tanko! What are you doing here? I wasn’t expecting
to see you. 75. TANKO: I know! Here being womens’ quarters and all. Sahura said I should
wait for her here. I hope you don’t mind? 76. HINDATU: No, no. Where is she? Sahura, I mean. 77. TANKO: She is inside. We just got back from the hospital. 78. HINDATU: How’s my father? I want to finish washing before I go to see him. 79. TANKO: He’s getting better and he asked of you. I told him you are alright
and that you’ll go and see him as soon as you can. 80. HINDATU: Thanks. (SIGHS) I’m so tired! 81. TANKO: Well, you have to be tired. You are always working too hard around
here. You don’t even allow me do all the things I used to do before you arrived.
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82. HINDATU: Tanko, please don’t bring up that matter again. You and I know that there was still so much to do that you weren’t doing. No insult intended.
83. TANKO: So that’s why you choose to overwork yourself? Hindatu, you keep forgetting that you are not a man. You like to behave like you are one.
84. HINDATU: Tanko, let’s not do this again. You know that we have had this conversation several times.
85. TANKO: That is fine by me, Hindatu. Anyway, I have to tell you something. 86. HINDATU: What is it? 87. TANKO: I met a young man today looking for a job who can help us with the
farm work. His name is Babagana and he lives in one of the neighbouring villages. He also happens to be a cousin to my old friend Suleiman.
88. HINDATU: So what did you tell him? I’m sure you told him no. We can’t afford an extra hand now.
89. TANKO: Well, I have already told him yes. 90. HINDATU: But you can’t do that, Tanko! You know the situation of things. You
know that we are hardly surviving on the small money that we have. Where do you want us to get the money from?
91. TANKO: He doesn’t want a lot of money. He just wants to work on the farm and live in the house. That’s all he is asking of us.
92. HINDATU: Live in the house? Do we even know where he is from? What he has been doing before he came here? His character, his motive for coming …
93. TANKO: (INTERRUPTS) We have to give him a chance, Hindatu. 94. HINDATU: A chance to prove what? Tanko, you know better than to do this.
You have to tell him to go back to where he is coming from. 95. TANKO: (UPSET) Hindatu, why do you always like to impose your will on
everybody? I may not be Alhaji Maikano’s biological son. But I have been here since my childhood. He takes me like a son and I am the oldest man in the house after Alhaji. Why can’t you respect and listen to me for once?
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96. HINDATU: Tanko, I don’t mean to upset you. I am only trying to state the obvious.
97. TANKO: And I have told you that we don’t need to pay him. He will work on the farm and ease you of a lot of burden. All he wants in return is a place to live. Hindatu, you of all people should be considerate.
98. HINDATU: Okay oh, Tanko. I just hope we don’t regret this. 99. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 4 100. SFX: OUTDOORS. EARLY EVENING 101. HINDATU: What are you doing? 102. BABAGANA: Sorry, madam. I was just looking at the vegetables. They are
growing very well. 103. HINDATU: Who are you? 104. BABAGANA: My name is Babagana and I suppose you are Hindatu. 105. HINDATU: Oh! The man Tanko was just talking to me about. 106. BABAGANA: Yes. I’m so sorry for imposing myself on you and your family. I hope
you don’t mind my presence here. 107. HINDATU: Time will tell. Why are you not inside? What are you doing back
here? 108. BABAGANA: I was attracted to the garden. It looks very well looked after. I was
told that it is yours. 109. HINDATU: I look after it, but it’s for the whole family. 110. BABAGANA: For how long have you had this garden? 111. HINDATU: Just over a month. I just have it so that we can always have fresh
vegetables and tomatoes for food. 112. BABAGANA: So no plans to sell any of the harvest? 113. HINDATU: No! This is for home use only. We only sell the crops from the big
farm. 114. BABAGANA: I see. What do you plant on the farm? 115. HINDATU: Just the usual. Maize, millet, sorghum, and cowpea. 116. BABAGANA: You don’t plant soya beans? 117. HINDATU: No. You think we should?
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118. BABAGANA: I don’t mean to teach you your business but soya beans help to improve the fertility of the soil. Also when you sell, it yields quite a considerable income.
119. HINDATU: We are making so little from the crops we sell. You know harvest time is the same for all farmers. So we all sell cheap, but after we have sold everything, we buy the same crops at a very expensive rate just to have something to eat.
120. BABAGANA: That’s the same for every farmer I know. But you really don’t have to sell everything. If you store your crops properly, you don’t have to sell at once. You can sell your harvest gradually even after other farmers have sold everything. That way, you can take advantage of the increase in price that happens afterwards.
121. HINDATU: (SIGHS) That is one aspect I really need to learn about. Dorcas, my friend in Kaworana, told me of some of the storage methods that they were taught in their association. I will go to the agric office to find out more.
122. BABAGANA: If you don’t mind, I can show you some. There are some basic traditional methods that are still very effective.
123. HINDATU: I’ll be willing to learn. I hope you will be on the farm tomorrow? 124. BABAGANA: Of course. I’m starting work tomorrow morning. 125. HINDATU: So where are you from? 126. BABAGANA: To be honest, I come from really far. Maybe a place you’ve never
heard of. 127. HINDATU: Try me. (PAUSE 2 BEATS) You don’t want to tell me? Okay. So have
you always been a farmer? 128. BABAGANA: Technically, yes. But I studied accountancy from the state
polytechnic. I just prefer to be a farmer instead. By the way, I come from Kanem.
129. HINDATU: So what brought you to our village? You have an education and you are very knowledgeable about farming. You could have done well for yourself in Kanem.
130. BABAGANA: I and Kanem have parted ways. But it’s nothing for you to be worried about. I promise to work hard on your farm. You will have no cause to regret hiring me, I promise.
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131. HINDATU: I hope not. I have to go inside now. I’ll see you on the farm tomorrow.
132. BABAGANA: Thank you, Hindatu. 133. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO 134. RIBADU: Welcome back, friends. It’s still In Kidiya Chanza … Hmmm, this is
getting interesting. Who is Babagana? Where did he come? What does he want with Hindatu and her family and where did he get his wealth of knowledge from? You can only get those answers and more if you continue to tune in to this program every week. We still have a climate change expert in the studio who will enlighten us about another topic today. But before we speak with her, let’s relax with this music.
135. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER ... 136. RIBADU: Welcome back, friends. Remember that you have to listen to this
section very well because, as usual, we’ll be asking a question at the end of the program and the person who sends the right answer stands a chance of winning fabulous prizes. We’ll be getting in touch with the winner of last episode’s quiz. Okay, here with me is climate change expert, Hajia Dr. Mariam.
137. MARIAM: You are also gradually turning into an expert yourself, Ribadu. 138. RIBADU: Far from it. You are welcome to the program. 139. MARIAM: You know that it is always my pleasure to heed to your call. 140. RIBADU: Thank you. Today, we’ll be discussing an issue that is very critical to
farmers. 141. MARIAM: What issue is that? 142. RIBADU: Marketing. As you heard from Hindatu in the drama, harvest time is
the same for all farmers. They sell very cheap and later buy the same produce at a very expensive price. Is there no way that farmers can sell their produce at a better market price?
143. MARIAM: Of course they can. But the question is “How many farmers actually know what the market price for their produce is?”
144. RIBADU: That is a major problem. A lot of farmers do not have any market information whatsoever, so they end up selling below the market price.
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145. MARIAM: Ribadu, we can’t completely blame them. You and I know that bad roads and lack of transportation make it difficult for farmers to go to the markets with produce or to find out what prices actually are.
146. RIBADU: So what can be done about this lack of information? 147. MARIAM: Well, farmers just have to ensure that they take communication
seriously. They should use their mobile phones to connect with fellow farmers in other locations to set prices. Using text messages or through calls, they can find out information on going prices on time. I believe almost everybody now has mobile phones.
148. RIBADU: What about those that don’t have? 149. MARIAM: Then they should find out information from their farmers groups.
Also, information on market prices is sometimes broadcast on our radio. By the way, if your favorite radio station doesn’t air market prices or other important information for farmers, call them or write to let them know it is something you and your colleagues want them to broadcast on a program like this over the radio.
150. RIBADU: Then please pray that our sponsors continue to pay for this air time. 151. MARIAM: (LAUGHS) Well, what can I say? Anyway, we need to find a way to
ensure that farmers, especially the younger ones, find a way to improve their business skills. It’s not enough to just be a farmer. You must know the business side. That’s the only way to be rewarded for all the hard work that goes into farming.
152. RIBADU: I believe the business training can be done through the farmers’ groups and NGOs. And I believe there are people from the agric office who will oblige them if they call.
153. MARIAM: Sure. Why not? 154. RIBADU: I remember Babagana telling Hindatu about soya beans. He seems
to believe that cultivating soya beans is a very good idea. 155. MARIAM: Sure. It’s very good for consumption, it generates good income, it
helps soil fertility, and it helps control weeds such as striga. 156. RIBADU: That means we will have a whole episode for soya cultivation
because it seems to have a lot of benefits. I want my listeners to have a full understanding of it.
157. MARIAM: I agree.
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158. RIBADU: Let’s not divert from today’s topic which is still marketing. 159. MARIAM: We are not diverting. Planting of soya beans adds value to the
business of agriculture and that’s one thing that is missing in this country. We do not seek for ways to add value. And in the long run, value is all that matters. It will help marketing and as a result increase farmers’ income.
160. RIBADU: Okay. 161. MARIAM: For example, cassava has a lot of potential that we are not taking
advantage of. We mostly use cassava as food, but please note that cassava flour is used in bakeries and confectioneries, it can also be processed for use in adhesives and animal feed, and also used in pharmaceuticals. But we are not tapping into all those yet. Farmers ought to take advantage of those other markets in need of this commodity.
162. RIBADU: At least if farmers know all the uses for which their products can be used for, they’ll know the value of the products.
163. MARIAM: Not only that, they will know that they can sell the products in different forms. For example cassava can be in form of flour and chips. It’s just to do the extra and add value.
164. RIBADU: That is a good idea. It reminds me of “gari masara” which is obtained from maize. A flour made from maize.
165. MARIAM: That’s a simple idea of adding value that I’m talking about. And very relevant in our region. Farmers need to think about how to present their produce in order to attract the highest possible prices for them. If it’s possible, farmers should hold on to some of their produce and sell later at a premium price.
166. RIBADU: Hajia, most farmers would love to do that. However, it is the fear of spoilage that makes us sell everything quickly and cheaply. Don’t forget also that most of us are poor. We need the money urgently, so it is not always possible to keep produce for months before selling.
167. MARIAM: You have analyzed this issue exactly as it is, Mallam. In order to reduce loss through spoilage, farmers should learn ways of drying, processing and storage of various produce. In terms of holding on to
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produce to sell during scarcity, it is hard for individual farmers to do, as you’ve rightly pointed out. My suggestion is for farmers to join farming associations or groups and together negotiate with micro‐finance banks or insurance companies for loans to cover immediate needs which will be repaid with interest after selling when the price is good. For more information on this, please visit your nearest agric office.
168. RIBADU: Kai. Hajia, Doctor Mariam, if we continue, we won’t leave here today. Our time is far gone and this is such an important topic. Still, I hope my friends at home have learned something useful as usual. Thanks, Hajia, for spending time with us today.
169. MARIAM: You are welcome. 170. RIBADU: Okay, friends, it’s time for today’s quiz and the question is simple.
Okay, here is the question. “How can we earn the most income from our farm produce?” Again, “How can we earn the most income from our farm produce?” Please send your answers to this radio station immediately and you just might be a lucky winner.
171. MARIAM: You are letting them have it easy this week. 172. RIBADU: Sure. I’m a considerate man, you know. It’s really time to go.
Remember it’s In Kidiya Chanza. Join us next week, same time, and same station, and don’t forget to tell your friends about the program. Bye.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Rebecca Ojedele of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 20
TOPIC – AWARENESS OF CREDIT FINANCE
Characters
Narrator ‐ Ribadu Dorcas Bulus Hindatu Kallamu Dikko Sambo Climate Change expert (Yusuf)
1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER… 2. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5
AND UNDER... 3. NARRATOR (RIBADU): WELCOME FRIENDS TO TODAY’S SEGMENT OF IN KIDIYA
CHANZA … A DRAMA PROGRAM ABOUT PEOPLE JUST LIKE US, MEN AND WOMEN DEALING WITH CHANGE IN A POSITIVE WAY. MY NAME IS RIBADU AND I’M A FULANI HERDSMAN LIKE MY FATHER BEFORE ME. THERE HAS ALWAYS BEEN AN ISSUE ON MY MIND AND I’M SURE A LOT OF YOU ALSO THINK ABOUT IT. IT IS MONEY. MONEY IS MY ISSUE TODAY. DON’T GET ME WRONG. I DON’T MEAN MONEY FOR MYSELF, BUT FOR YOU HARDWORKING FARMERS OUT THERE. WE COMPLAIN THAT OUR YOUTHS ARE MOVING OUT OF THE VILLAGES TO LOOK FOR WHITE COLLAR JOBS AND LEAVE FARMING BEHIND. WHILE THIS IS TRUE, THE REALITY IS THAT PEOPLE WHO WANT TO BECOME FARMERS DO NOT HAVE ACCESS TO ADEQUATE FINANCE TO GET THEM STARTED. EXISTING FARMERS DO NOT HAVE MONEY TO EXPAND THEIR BUSINESS. WE’VE HEARD OF PEOPLE LIKE KALLAMU WHO BECAME BANKRUPT WHEN WEEVILS DESTROYED HIS GRAINS. WHAT CAN BE DONE TO HELP PEOPLE LIKE THAT? SO NOW YOU UNDERSTAND WHY I HAVE MONEY ON MY MIND? I HOPE AN EXPERT CAN HELP US TODAY. BUT BEFORE THEN, LET’S GO HEAR WHAT OUR FRIENDS IN OUR STORY ARE UP TO.
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4. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO... SCENE 1: 5. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 6. DORCAS: Bulus, you are dressing up already. That’s good! 7. BULUS: Good! So? Won’t I dress up before I go out? Or what’s strange
about that, eh Dorcas? 8. DORCAS: Nothing really. Only the last time I checked you were still sleeping,
so I thought you weren’t going out today. 9. BULUS: Well, you can see that I’m going out. I am a motorcycle rider, not an
office worker. I can do my business anytime. 10. DORCAS: I know that, my husband. Anyway, since you are on your way out,
can you help me into town? 11. BULUS: What are you going to do in town? 12. DORCAS: Today is our association meeting, Bulus. You know we meet every
week. 13. BULUS: Okay, that women farmers’ association. 14. DORCAS: Yes. And after I finish there, I want to go to Kakaran Jatau to see
Hindatu. 15. BULUS: Why do you have to do that? 16. DORCAS: I haven’t seen her in a while and I also have to give her some money
from sales from our soya beans. I shouldn’t hold out on her because she is not here in Kaworana.
17. BULUS: If she needs the money, why can’t she come here to get it? Or if she misses you as you claim you do her, then she should come and see you instead of you running to her all the time, like a single woman who has nothing to do.
18. DORCAS: Bulus, what are you talking about? You know that Hindatu’s father is still very sick and she is the one taking care of her father. You know that, Bulus.
19. BULUS: Well, Dorcas, you also have a responsibility to your own family. You have a husband and you have children that you should be taking care of. Don’t give me that crap that she is taking care of her father.
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20. DORCAS: Please, Bulus, don’t let’s quarrel this morning. Hindatu is our friend, I thought you’d understand.
21. BULUS: I’m not saying that you shouldn’t go. Just come back on time. 22. DORCAS: So will you let me ride with you into town? 23. BULUS: Why will I do that? My bike is for business. It is not for pleasure
rides across town. 24. DORCAS: Which one is pleasure trip? Taking me into town will not kill you.
And it will save us money that I would otherwise use for transportation.
25. BULUS: If you want to save transport money, then stay at home. 26. DORCAS: Bulus! 27. BULUS: I’m serious. How will I make any money if I’m busy carrying my wife
to places on my bike instead of looking for passengers? 28. DORCAS: But a few minutes to drop me in town will not stop you from
making money today, Bulus. Why are you so being so unkind to me? I am your wife …
29. BULUS: Please woman, go and rest. I don’t have your time today. 30. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND SLAMS SHUT 31. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2 32. SFX: OUTDOORS. FARM AMBIENCE. DISTANT SOUND OF VOICES. 33. HINDATU: (SURPRISED) Mallam Kallamu, what are you doing here on our
farm? 34. KALLAMU: I just came to see how you are doing, Hindatu. It’s been a while and
you’ve forbidden me from coming to see you at home. 35. HINDATU: Well, I didn’t say you could come and see me on the farm either. 36. KALLAMU: I just couldn’t resist, Hindatu. So is that the young man over there? 37. HINDATU: Which young man? 38. KALLAMU: The one I heard you have just employed. 39. HINDATU: Oh you mean Babagana! I didn’t employ him. Tanko did. But it’s
turned out that he is quite good. I’m happy he’s working on our farm.
40. KALLAMU: I can see that.
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41. HINDATU: What do you mean? 42. KALLAMU: Well you two seem very close. I was watching you from a distance
and both of you have been glued together. If I didn’t know better, I’d have said there is something between you two.
43. HINDATU: Well, thank God you knew better. 44. KALLAMU: Like I said I know better. But that is not what the entire village is
saying. 45. HINDATU: I’m surprised at you oh, Kallamu. When did you start listening to
gossip? I thought you scolded your wife because she did the same. 46. KALLAMU: Well, it’s not like I was listening to gossip. But when I hear
something that affects my friend’s family, I believe it is my responsibility to bring it to your attention.
47. HINDATU: Well, I don’t care about what people are saying about me or anybody for that matter. At first they said I was doing something with you, now it’s with Babagana. What do you want me to do about that? Why do I have to explain myself? No matter what I do, people will talk.
48. KALLAMU: But like you told me sometime ago, you also should not give people reasons to talk. Since Babagana arrived, both of you have always been together. You go everywhere together and you are always seen together.
49. HINDATU: We work together. We live together. What do you expect? 50. KALLAMU: Do you go to the farm with all of your hirelings? 51. HINDATU: He is not a hireling. He is an educated man and a brilliant farmer. I
respect the man. He has bright ideas which are invaluable to us. 52. KALLAMU: I can see that you have developed a soft spot for him. Does he feel
the same about you? 53. HINDATU: Kallamu, I don’t know what you are talking about. Moreover,
whatever I do with myself is strictly my business. 54. KALLAMU: I know that your business is yours. But what do you know about the
man? He might be a criminal wanted for murder, for all you know. 55. HINDATU: (LAUGHS) Criminal! Kallamu, please don’t make me laugh. Criminal,
my foot.
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56. KALLAMU: You might find this funny. But can you tell me one thing about him? Where is he from? What has he been up to before he came here? Can you honestly answer me?
57. HINDATU: Kallamu, you have no right to question me or my staff’s integrity. Anything I know about him is not supposed to be shared. If there’s anything he wants you to know, he’ll tell you.
58. KALLAMU: When did this man arrive that you are so bent on taking his side? What have I done to you that you won’t just consider anything I say?
59. HINDATU: Kallamu, I am not taking sides and please stop sounding jealous. 60. KALLAMU: Jealous? I am not jealous. And even if I am, don’t I have reason to
be? Since you have arrived in this town, I have been trying to marry but you won’t listen to me. This young man arrived less than two weeks ago and you have been giving him attention. How do you want me to feel?
61. HINDATU: I’m sorry you feel that way Kallamu. But I told you already that there is nothing between Babagana and myself.
62. KALLAMU: Does that mean there’s hope for me? 63. HINDATU: Kallamu. please stop it. Let’s not start that again and moreover, I
told you not to mention that again. 64. KALLAMU: Okay. Just please be careful around that man. 65. HINDATU: Thanks. I am an adult and I know what I am doing. I have to get back
to work. 66. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 67. SFX: KNOCK ON THE DOOR 68. SAMBO: Who is that? 69. DIKKO: (OFF MIC) It’s me, Dikko. 70. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 71. SAMBO: (NOT PLEASED) Dikko! Welcome. How are you? 72. DIKKO: I’m fine, Sambo my friend. How’s the wife? 73. SAMBO: She has gone to the market. 74. DIKKO: She left quite early. I thought I’ll meet her at home. I miss her food.
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75. SAMBO: I’m sure she’ll be glad to hear that. She had to leave on time because from the market, she has to head off to see her family.
76. DIKKO: Okay. So what are you up to? 77. SAMBO: I’m on my way to the farm. If you had come a minute later, you
wouldn’t have met at home. My trees need my attention. I’m preparing planting pits to grow millet and cowpeas.
78. DIKKO: I am happy for you. I hear you have been able to turn your farm into a productive one despite the fact almost everybody deserted this area. I envy you.
79. SAMBO: Well at least people are coming back now. And as for the farm, I have been getting a lot of help from the agric office.
80. DIKKO: That’s good. Talking of help, I need help seriously. Two, actually! 81. SAMBO: What’s the problem now? 82. DIKKO: I need to do some carpentry work in my new house. By the way,
thank you again for helping me build the house and putting up the fence for the animal pens. But my friend, as you know, we haven’t finished yet. (SIGHS DEEPLY) I’m telling you Sambo, moving to a new village is not for the weak. (BOSSY) So my friend, I need your help again.
83. SAMBO: That’s no problem Dikko, what are friends for? I’ll be in Dogon Gimeta next week. I’ll surely help you then.
84. DIKKO: (CLEARS THROAT) Ah! It can’t wait. I need your help today. In fact, we should go together now.
85. SAMBO: (LAUGHS) You must be joking. I can’t possibly go with you right now. I have plans of my own. I told you I am on my way to my farm. And why do you think you can come into my house early in the morning and expect me to be available to go out with you?
86. DIKKO: Because I know you can’t refuse me, Sambo. 87. SAMBO: Well, I don’t plan to refuse you, but it can’t be when I am also busy.
Haba! I will help you but it will be on my own time and terms. 88. DIKKO: Well I see. I guess I’ll have to tell the Sheik what you did. 89. SAMBO: What do you mean? What did I do? 90. DIKKO: Sambo, don’t panic. I’m sure he will understand that it was an
accident, but I can’t continue to keep your secret for you.
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91. SAMBO: Dikko, what are you talking about? Are you out of your mind? 92. DIKKO: You killed a man, Sambo. You cannot take responsibility for your
actions still, you don’t appreciate the fact that I am keeping it a secret for you.
93. SAMBO: I appreciate it, Dikko. But you can’t hold it over my head. I didn’t do it deliberately and you know that. You were there.
94. DIKKO: I was there and I understand. The more reason you should always be there for me as I have been there for you.
95. SAMBO: Okay, Dikko. I will do this just once. Next time, I won’t let you blackmail me like this. Let’s go!
96. DIKKO: I said I needed two things from you. 97. SAMBO: What again? 98. DIKKO: I need you to give me one of your cows. One of the cows in my care
died and the owner has been on my case. I need to replace it for him.
99. SAMBO: And my cow is the ideal replacement? 100. DIKKO: I don’t have money and have nowhere else to turn. You are my only
true friend. 101. SAMBO: (LAUGHS MIRTHLESSLY) Ahhh! You are a mean bastard, Dikko. I am
very disappointed in you. 102. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 4 103. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 104. HINDATU: (EXCLAIMS) Eh? Dorcas! Is this your face? Welcome. Welcome. 105. DORCAS: Hindatu, Hindatu! It is my face‐o. How are you? 106. HINDATU: I’m very fine. I just returned from the farm. I know I should come
and visit you too. God knows I want to, but it is very hectic here. 107. DORCAS: I know, Hindatu. Don’t worry about it. I’m just happy to see you
again, Hindatu. What has been happening to you? How’s Zaharadeen?
108. HINDATU: My son is fine. Baaba, my step mother, and all the others are helping me to take care of him. (LAUGHING) The boy is so spoilt.
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109. DORCAS: I’m not worried about that. Zaharadeen is a good boy. (TEASING HER) So what about you, my friend? Don’t tell me the men of Kakaran Jatau are not pushing each other down in the rush to marry this beautiful, golden and single daughter of Alhaji MaiKano?
110. HINDATU: (CHUCKLES) Dorcas, I beg leave that talk first. I am fine but very busy. How are you? How’s the farm?
111. DORCAS: Fine. We’ve even harvested some crops! In fact, I came here directly from Kaduna.
112. HINDATU: Kaduna? What did you do there? 113. DORCAS: It was an association meeting that took me there. We went to meet
with one company that wants to buy all our soya beans. 114. SFX: CELL PHONE RINGS WITH A MUSICAL RING TONE ON MIC TO
INTERRUPT DORCAS 115. DORCAS: (OVER THE RINGING) Please, Hindatu, let me take this call. (PHONE
STOPS RINGING. DORCAS GOING OFF MIC AND TALKS AS IF TO PARTY ON THE LINE. SLIGHTLY OFF MIC) Hello, Hajara. No. I just arrived in Kakaran Jatau. Any problem? Alright, I’ll call you when I return to Kaworana. Okay, bye‐bye.
116. HINDATU: (EXCITED) Ehn‐eh? Dorcas, you’ve bought a cell phone? Let me see? (PAUSES TO EXAMINE) Ehn‐eh? It’s so fine. Hmn. Dorcas, Dorcas! Who was that on the phone?
117. DORCAS: Hajara. One of the women in our women farmers’ association. Yes‐o. I bought it this week. Like I said, I sold some bags of soya beans last week. I brought your share of the money I’ve made so far.
118. HINDATU: Thank you so much, partner. I appreciate you a lot. How’s the association doing?
119. DORCAS: Fine! Have I told you that I am the president now? 120. HINDATU: President? Dorcas, that is awesome. Congratulations. Fearless
Dorcas. 121. DORCAS: I was scared at first when I was voted as president. You know being
illiterate and all. I was afraid that I won’t be able to do it. But all the women, including the literate ones, insisted that I do it, even Mama Bulus encouraged me to take the chance …
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122. HINDATU: And I’m glad that you did. So how are you getting along and running the association?
123. DORCAS: It’s not that hard. You just have to listen to members’ opinions in the association. I have also been getting a lot of help from the agric office. An NGO even granted some of our women loans for their farms.
124. HINDATU: Wow, that’s good. How will they pay back? 125. DORCAS: They will pay gradually from proceeds from the farm. We have
negotiated a very good price for our soya beans with the company in Kaduna. So at least people will have a bit more money than usual. We are all very excited.
126. HINDATU: Who wouldn’t be? You look very happy! How’s Bulus? 127. DORCAS: Bulus? I don’t know what his problem is these days. You know we
were able to buy a motorcycle for him to use for commercial use? I don’t know what he has been doing with the money. He never has money for anything around the house. He always asks me to borrow from myself and he’ll repay me later.
128. HINDATU: (BOTH LAUGHING) And does he? (MORE LAUGHS) Bulus has not changed. What of that his old girlfriend, Rakiya, or what is her name?
129. DORCAS: I don’t care to know. I don’t think they are still together. Anyway, what about you? You are refusing to tell me something. Quick, quick, start talking now!
130. HINDATU: Well, there have been suitors. Kallamu, my father’s friend, has been very insistent but I don’t like him enough and besides, he has two wives already. And one of the wives used to be my friend.
131. DORCAS: I see. That can be troubling … 132. HINDATU: (GOSSIP TONE) But there is someone else I like though. 133. DORCAS: Tell me. Who is he? Is he handsome? Tell me, Hindatu. 134. HINDATU: (CHUCKLING) Well, there is nothing going on between us. 135. DORCAS: Hindatu! Stop the suspense. 136. HINDATU: Okay, his name is Babagana and he is our new farm help! 137. DORCAS: (LAUGHING) You are in love with the help. That’s funny, Hindatu.
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138. HINDATU: I know! And I’m not in love with him. I just happen to like him a lot. He is so smart and intelligent. He is educated and fun to be with. He makes lots of contributions that are just ingenious.
139. DORCAS: Wow, he sounds loveable. Where is he from? Do you know his background?
140. HINDATU: Not really. To be honest, nobody knows much about him. There’s a lot of mystery around him.
141. DORCAS: What? Didn’t you ask him about his background before even employing him?
142. HINDATU: It was Tanko that employed him. When I asked him, he refused to say.
143. DORCAS: I don’t like the sound of that. Hindatu, you have to find out all you can about him before you completely lose your head. Are you crazy?
144. HINDATU: I don’t like to pry or force him. He doesn’t talk much anyway. I reckon when he is ready he’ll reveal all.
145. DORCAS: Hindatu, I know you are a smart woman and you will do what’s best. Just be careful and watchful. I trust you, though.
146. HINDATU: Thank you, Dorcas. I’m so proud of everything you’ve accomplished in so little time.
147. DORCAS: All thanks to you, Hindatu. You were a really good influence. And I can’t wait for you to return to Kaworana.
148. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO 149. NARRATOR (RIBADU): Welcome back, friends. It’s still In Kidiya Chanza … and I’m
still your host Ribadu. Is Hindatu falling in love or something? But really, does Babagana feel the same way? Is he up to something? What will be the outcome of all this? Well, you’ll have to keep on listening to find out. The program is not ended, in case you are just joining us. We still have an expert in the studio who will answer some tough questions and I’ve still got some gifts to give away. But stay tuned while we listen to this song.
150. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER ... 151. RIBADU: Welcome back, friends. It’s still In Kidiya Chanza … and I have
Mallam Yusuf from the agric office with me in the studio.
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152. YUSUF: You are welcome, Ribadu. It’s always exciting to be here. And I guess today’s session will be equally interesting because I heard your opening comment and I felt it was very true.
153. RIBADU: The fact that there are lots of poor farmers who do not have money to do the farming the way it should be done is very troubling.
154. YUSUF: My concern is that most communities in this region being dependent on agriculture, you would expect that there will provision for credit facilities to farmers.
155. RIBADU: You are very correct, Yusuf. What in heaven’s name happened to banks giving loans to farmers to do business?
156. YUSUF: It’s a matter of priority. I guess some financial institutions just do not consider farming a good venture to invest in.
157. RIBADU: But there are lots of projects that we hear of which promise financial assistance to farmers.
158. YUSUF: The problem is that only a handful of farmers benefit from such interventions, and the most frustrating part is that that assistance does not get to the grassroots where the poorest farmers are actually located.
159. RIBADU: And my belief is that a lot of women are not benefiting from such interventions either. Dorcas’ group in our story got a loan though.
160. YUSUF: Well, it’s not that those kinds of loans and stuff are not available. They can just be very difficult to access. Access to credit is the problem, not that the credit is totally unavailable. However, belonging to a group or an association helps a lot.
161. RIBADU: I’m aware that there are some microfinance banks now. I just don’t know if they actually give out loans to farmers.
162. YUSUF: Oh yes, they do, and the interest rates are actually quite low. But farmers can also come together, put together some money and borrow themselves from this pool at a low interest rate.
163. RIBADU: I know that some people already do that. And believe it or not, the farmers usually pay back their debt on time. I think this has a lot to do with their pride and the fact they want to look good among their friends. So I think other farmers can adopt that system – it works.
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164. YUSUF: I’ll particularly encourage women to create such groups so that they can generate a credit pool that will make small loans available to their members in turn. For instance, a small group of women may pool their resources to purchase cellular phones, and charge a small amount for people to use the phones, thus increasing their revenue. This money can be made available to needy members as loans or the dividend yielded can be shared among members..
165. RIBADU: That’s true. They can use the profit to get household and personal things that their husbands are not providing. Dorcas’ group is an example.
166. YUSUF: Ribadu, I heard the previous episode of this program and I remember Hajia Mariam encouraging farmers to always be aware of market prices. The use of cellular phones in the community can help achieve this while still creating income for the group that operates the phones.
167. RIBADU: Okay. 168. YUSUF: Ribadu, since we are talking about credit financing, there’s
something I’ll like to quickly mention. 169. RIBADU: What is that, Yusuf? 170. YUSUF: There is something called warrantage or credit inventory. 171. RIBADU: Explain, please! 172. YUSUF: I will. You know we are always talking about how poor farmers
often sell their produce shortly after harvest when prices are at their lowest because they need cash badly?
173. RIBADU: Yes? 174. YUSUF: Warrantage credit schemes provide farmers with the opportunity to
store their crop in secure warehouse facilities, where it is held for later sale during the “lean season,” when prices are much higher.
175. RIBADU: So how do they get the immediate cash if they can’t even sell the crops until later?
176. YUSUF: This is how it works. Farmer groups of about 20‐50 members can come together and deposit their crops in the warehouse for storage. As soon as the crops are deposited in the warehouse, the group receives 70‐80% of the price for their grain.
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177. RIBADU: Who gives them such money? 178. YUSUF: Usually a lending institution. These cash loans are given to farmers’
groups, upon viewing a receipt from the warehouse for storage. The groups then disburse the money to individual farmers. The receipt states the quantity and quality of the goods deposited.
179. RIBADU: That sounds interesting. While the grains are in storage, who takes care of it? Who ensures that the grains are well stored and treated?
180. YUSUF: The warehoused grain is the collective property of the group, which is jointly responsible for treatment, storage, and marketing. But each farmer’s account is tracked separately by the group.
181. RIBADU: I see. 182. YUSUF: This scheme gives farmers cash loans which help meet immediate
family cash needs, help them participate in collective fertilizer (and other input) purchases and finance their income‐generating activities during the off‐season.
183. RIBADU: Sounds very advantageous. So when the prices of grains are higher, they then sell them, right?
184. YUSUF: Yes! The grain is sold together four or five months after harvest time when prices are high, enabling farmers to pay back the loans, including interest.
185. RIBADU: I don’t think it’s a very popular scheme right now. 186. YUSUF: It’s used in some places, but, no, it’s not popular yet. But when
warrantage credit schemes become popular, the difference between prices during the lean season and immediately after harvest may tend to decrease. Warrantage credit is profitable only when the increase in the value of the stored goods exceeds the cost of storage and borrowed funds.
187. RIBADU: Hmm. Thanks for coming around again today. Every time you come around, there is always something new to learn. I have learnt a new one today. Warrantage credit.
188. YUSUF: (LAUGHS) Always glad to help. 189. RIBADU: Okay, friends, it’s time for today’s quiz and the question is this.
“What are the benefits of setting up or joining men and women’s farming associations or groups?” Let me repeat the question, “What
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are the benefits of setting up or joining men and women’s farming associations or groups?” Please send your answers to this radio station or by SMS, and next episode, you just might be a lucky winner.
190. YUSUF: (CHUCKLES) That’s a nice one. And I’m sure you’ll have troops of responses this week.
191. RIBADU: Indeed. Okay, it’s time to announce the winner for last week’s quiz. The winner is …………………………………… Please come to…………………………………. to redeem your prize. It’s really time to go. Remember it’s In Kidiya Chanza. Join us next week, same time, and same station and don’t forget to tell your friends about the program. Bye.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Rebecca Ojedele of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 21
TOPIC – FARMING ORGANIZATIONS OR ASSOCIATIONS PURCHASE FARM INPUTS AND OTHER COOPERATION
Characters Narrator – Ribadu OC Ngozi Uwa Hindatu Babagana Tanko Agronomist (Yusuf)
1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER … 2. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5
AND UNDER ... 3. NARRATOR (RIBADU): WELCOME FRIENDS TO TODAY’S SEGMENT OF IN
KIDIYA CHANZA … A DRAMA PROGRAM ABOUT PEOPLE JUST LIKE US, MEN AND WOMEN DEALING WITH CHANGE IN A POSITIVE WAY. MY NAME IS RIBADU AND I’M A FULANI HERDSMAN LIKE MY FATHER BEFORE ME. FORMATION OF GROUPS AND ASSOCIATIONS IS NOT A NEW THING IN NIGERIA. EVERYWHERE YOU GO THERE IS ONE ASSOCIATION OR THE OTHER. TEACHERS HAVE ASSOCIATION, PEPPER SELLERS HAVE ASSOCIATION, CARPENTERS AND OTHER ARTISANS HAVE THEIR ASSOCIATIONS. LIKEWISE, FARMERS HAVE GROUPS WHICH THEY BELONG TO. I SUPPOSE ALL OF YOU LISTENERS BELONG TO ONE FARMERS’ ASSOCIATION OR THE OTHER. IF YOU DON’T, I BELIEVE THAT BY THE END OF THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HAVE ENOUGH REASON TO JOIN ONE. ALSO, FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO ALREADY BELONG TO A GROUP, AGRONOMIST YUSUF WILL JOIN US SHORTLY TO GIVE US TIPS ON HOW WE CAN OPTIMIZE THE BENEFITS OF BELONGING TO SUCH GROUPS. DON’T LET ME LET THE CAT OUT OF THE BAG JUST YET. BEFORE YUSUF COMES, LET US FIRST FIND OUT WHAT IS HAPPENING IN KAKARAN JATAU THESE DAYS…
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4. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO... SCENE 1: 5. SFX: SOUND OF SEWING MACHINE RUNNING 6. OC: (COMING ON MIC) Where is everyone? 7. NGOZI: (STARTLED. ON MIC) Oh OC! What are you doing here? 8. OC: (CHUCKLES, ON MIC ) Ngozi, must I have a reason to visit my wife
in her shop? 9. NGOZI: No you don’t need a reason in normal circumstances. But you are
acting Mai anguwar so I’m surprised that you have the time to visit me. And I’m sure this is not just a mere visit. You are here for something. I know you.
10. OC: Of course. (PAUSES) I am here to talk to you. Where are all your girls?
11. NGOZI: One of them went to represent me at our association meeting and the other went to give a customer her clothes. You can talk. They won’t be back anytime soon.
12. OC: Okay! I want to talk to you about our home. I hardly recognize that house anymore.
13. NGOZI: I didn’t think you cared. You are hardly there after all. 14. OC: How will I be in a house where all I hear are curses and abuses?
How will I function properly as Mai anguwar in such an environment?
15. NGOZI: Well that is the fault of your wives, Dije and Altine. They can’t stand each other.
16. OC: But what are you doing about it, Ngozi? You are the senior wife. You are older than them both. You should be able to control them. You should have been able to stop all the fighting and nagging.
17. NGOZI: Eh? OC, don’t get me started. Haba! Am I their husband? Am I the one that said one wife is not enough and decided to marry two other wives? Please OC, if you cannot control your wives, don’t put the blame on me.
18. OC: Of course I can control them. It’s just that I don’t understand that Dije. How can a woman be so ungrateful?
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19. NGOZI: Ungrateful? How is she ungrateful? 20. OC: She is clearly ungrateful. If she isn’t, she would have appreciated all
that Altine has done for this family! 21. NGOZI: All that Altine has done? Like… let me think… okay! She sent her
maid to do her chores in the house. Is that the help you are referring to?
22. OC: Ngozi, I am very serious. Have you forgotten that if not for Altine, I won’t have become the Mai anguwar of Kakaran Jatau?
23. NGOZI: Oh because her uncle is the district head and they made you acting Mai anguwar against the community support, you think she has done something extraordinary for you right?
24. OC: Community support or not, I am the Mai anguwar of Kakaran Jatau and that’s all that counts.
25. NGOZI: OC, you are acting Mai anguwar. If Alhaji Maikano is strong enough to resume his duties, he will. Moreover, how can you be proud of an appointment when the people do not support you, how will they even respect you?
26. OC: Respect or not, support or not, it doesn’t matter and trust me, when the benefits of being Mai anguwar begin to arrive, people who do not support me now will be my friends. That’s simply human nature.
27. NGOZI: So that’s what makes Altine special right? Because she made you Mai anguwar?
28. OC: Is that not enough reason? And moreover, the benefits are for all of us. Being Mai anguwar is not a joke. And you all will enjoy from it. And you have Altine to thank for that.
29. NGOZI: (MOCKINGLY) I see. 30. OC: So you see why you need to ensure that Altine and Dije put aside all
their differences? I need peace! I don’t want my blood pressure to rise worse than it already is.
31. NGOZI: I sympathize‐o but how is this my fault? It’s not as if I asked you to marry more wives.
32. OC: Is that what you are going to say? 33. NGOZI: What else do you want me to say?
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34. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2 35. SFX: KNOCK ON THE DOOR 36. UWA: Come in. The door is open. 37. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND FOOT STEPS COME ON 38. UWA: (EXCITEDLY) Hindatu! Welcome. I’m so glad to see you. 39. HINDATU: (COLDLY) I am here. Now what? 40. UWA: Hindatu! 41. HINDATU: Cut the crap, Uwa. You know I wouldn’t have come if you hadn’t
sent the whole of Kakaran Jatau to beg me to come and see you. Mts! (Kissing her teeth and muttering) As if I owe her…I am here now, please tell me why you’ve been asking to see me.
42. UWA: Hindatu! We are friends. Why wouldn’t you want to see me? I hardly see anybody now since my husband has banned me from leaving the house.
43. HINDATU: Friends! Do you even know the meaning of that word, Uwa? 44. UWA: Hindatu, I know I offended you. 45. HINDATU: Uwa, you didn’t only offend me. You insulted me and accused me
wrongly. What kind of friend does that? 46. UWA: Hindatu, I’m really sorry. At that time I honestly thought you had
something to do with my husband Kallamu. People were talking you …
47. HINDATU: So what has changed? 48. UWA: Now I know it wasn’t true. You are an honorable woman Hindatu. I
should have known better. 49. HINDATU: (UNIMPRESSED) So what can I do for you? 50. UWA: Please Hindatu. I need you to forgive me. I know I behaved badly
and I know you deserve to be angry. I didn’t even know you’ll come after what I did. Please Hindatu.
51. HINDATU: Uwa. I said I have heard you. I have a lot to do so the earlier you told me why I’m here, the better.
52. UWA: Hindatu you know that my husband Kallamu has grounded me. He has put me in purdah and since then I have hardly seen anybody.
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And I can’t go out. I am very lonely most of the time. I have begged him but he wouldn’t listen.
53. HINDATU: Ah. So how is this any of my business? 54. UWA: Please, Hindatu, I need you to talk to him for me. I know he will
listen to whatever you say. 55. HINDATU: What? Me? What gives you that impression? Or are you insinuating
that there is something between me and your husband? Is that why you called me here?
56. UWA: No, Hindatu. How can I say such a thing? I know that he respects and admires you. And I know that he listens to whatever you say.
57. HINDATU: I am not in control of your husband. I don’t have any power over him. Please this is a matter between you two, don’t involve me in this. I beg you, Uwa.
58. UWA: Please, Hindatu. I really need you to do this for me. My not going out to sell is slowly killing me and my family.
59. HINDATU: How? What are you talking about? 60. UWA: You know that Kallamu is bankrupt. He lost all his money first due
to the quick cessation of rainfall last year. Everyone lost their crops and then later his seeds and grains in storage were destroyed by weevils. We had been managing with the money I made from selling fura da nono (a porridge made from ground sorghum gruel and yorghurt). Now that he has stopped me from going out, I hardly have money to buy food for the family or even to provide money for my children to take to school.
61. HINDATU: Why don’t you talk to him? 62. UWA: He won’t listen to me. He won’t even talk about it. 63. HINDATU: Well, you have to keep trying if the situation is that unbearable. I
hope he comes around. 64. UWA: Hindatu, I have tried. He won’t listen to me. I’m tired Hindatu. I
need help. 65. HINDATU: I can’t help you, Uwa. There is nothing I can do about it. 66. UWA: Please, Hindatu. I beg you. Don’t let my children die from hunger. I
just want him to let me go out and sell. He can give a curfew, anything. But he should please let me go out to make some money.
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67. HINDATU: Uwa, please stop trying to involve me in this. The last thing I need is another set of rumors.
68. UWA: There will be no rumors. I promise you, Hindatu. Please I am desperate.
69. HINDATU: Okay. I will do this only this once. Please don’t ask me for this kind of favor again.
70. UWA: (PROFUSELY) Thank you, Hindatu. I am very grateful for this. I promise you, you won’t regret this. I promise you. I’m very grateful. Thank you.
71. HINDATU: I swear to God, Uwa, I would have preferred to stay far away from you and your husband. I hope I won’t regret this.
72. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 73. SFX: THE FARM. AMBIENCE OF AN OUTDOOR SPACE. VOICES
HUMMING SPORADICALLY 74. TANKO: (CALLS OUT) Babagana! Babagana!! Come here right now! 75. BABAGANA: Tanko! What is the matter? 76. TANKO: Babagana, who brought you into Alhaji Maikano’s household? 77. BABAGANA: You, Tanko! And I’m very grateful for that. 78. TANKO: Who employed you on this farm? 79. BABAGANA: I owe it all to you, Tanko. But I don’t understand why you are asking
these questions. 80. TANKO: If I am your employer, why do you have to go behind my back to
advise Hindatu to go against my wishes? 81. BABAGANA: Go behind your back? (STAMMERS) I don’t understand, Tanko. 82. TANKO: (SHARPLY) Don’t pretend, Babagana. 83. BABAGANA: Tanko, I honestly don’t understand what you are talking about. 84. TANKO: Why did you ask Hindatu to buy just a few bags of fertilizer after I
had already told her the quantity of fertilizer we needed? 85. BABAGANA: I’m so sorry. I didn’t know you had already spoken to her about
fertilizers. We were talking about the farm and I told her about a farming technique I know called micro‐dosing.
86. TANKO: Micro what?
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87. BABAGANA: Micro‐dosing. It’s a method whereby only a little fertilizer is used directly where it’s needed thus minimizing wastage. She liked it and decided she wanted to try it. I swear I didn’t know you wanted to buy the fertilizers yourself. I wouldn’t have interfered.
88. TANKO: What do you mean you didn’t know? Who do you think has been purchasing fertilizers before you arrived? Why do you think you can just come here and spoil everything?
89. BABAGANA: I’m really sorry, Tanko. I only made a suggestion to her. I didn’t know it will affect you.
90. TANKO: What stupid suggestion? So you think you are very knowledgeable right? If you are such a great farmer, why are you working on someone else’s farm? Why are you just a bloody labourer?
91. BABAGANA: I’m sorry, Tanko. It was a misunderstanding. I was just trying to be helpful.
92. TANKO: Stop being helpful. Let this be the first and last time you will make any suggestion to Hindatu without asking me first! If you don’t know your place, I will be forced to throw you out of this farm and from the house.
93. BABAGANA: Tanko, I honestly don’t understand why you are taking this matter so hard. I suppose our objective is to ensure that this farm is profitable. If my suggestion is helping us achieve that objective, why is that a problem?
94. TANKO: Oh I see. Now I understand the game you are playing. I get it! 95. BABAGANA: What are you talking about? 96. TANKO: Shut up, Babagana. I’m a man like you. Do you think I’m stupid? So
you think you can force yourself on Hindatu? Or what are you thinking? The daughter of a whole Maikano? Where are your senses?
97. BABAGANA: Tanko, what are you saying? 98. TANKO: Stop the act, Babagana. Your secret is out. If you think you can play
eye‐service with Hindatu so that she can like you, you are mistaken. Just know that I am watching.
99. BABAGANA: You are mistaken, Tanko. I have no such intentions. 100. TANKO: Shut up, Babagana. Don’t just make me regret hiring you.
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101. BABAGANA: Ah‐ah, Tanko. What exactly have I done wrong for God’s sake? You have accused me of so many things that I’m not even guilty of.
102. TANKO: That’s left to be seen. 103. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 4 104. SFX: SOUND OF SEWING MACHINE RUNNING ON MIC 105. HINDATU: (COMING ON MIC) Madame Ngozi! Well done! 106. NGOZI: Ah Hindatu! Welcome. How have you been? It’s been a while! 107. HINDATU: Yes oh, Ngozi. You know how it is now! It’s not been easy running a
farm and a household in my father’s absence. 108. NGOZI: Hindatu, I don’t envy you oh. I know how hard it is to make a living. 109. HINDATU: Well, what can we do? When we have responsibilities, we just do
the best we can. 110. NGOZI: You are so right, Hindatu. So what brings you out here? 111. HINDATU: You remember the last time I came to see you about the women
farmers’ association? 112. NGOZI: Of course. We have been talking about that for so long but we
haven’t been able to do anything about it. 113. HINDATU: That’s true. So many women have shown interest in joining. Here
I’ve written down the names of about 15 women who want to join and are ready to pay dues.
114. NGOZI: (EXCITED) Is that right? Let me see. It will be very nice if we finally get the group up and running. It will be the first women farmers’ group in Kakaran Jatau.
115. HINDATU: And a very beneficial group at that. I heard that the local government has a scheme that will benefit women farmers but they must belong to a group or an association. If we don’t start the group now, women farmers in Kakaran will not benefit from the scheme.
116. NGOZI: And that will be such a shame. Kakaran Jatau women are some of the most hardworking people I’ve ever seen. They deserve some help or reward now and then.
117. HINDATU: Some other women have come to make enquiries about the organization. What do you think is a good number for us to be?
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118. NGOZI: Mnn. 20 to 25? I think that’s a good number. Who are these women? Perhaps I can talk to them…explain the benefits. My co‐wives, Altine and Dije are also interested. They have asked me about it several times.
119. HINDATU: We are almost complete now. That’s good news. Do you think that husbands of other women will allow their wives to join the group?
120. NGOZI: There are so many good opportunities that belonging to a group offer the women and their families. The benefits are so obvious that it is unlikely any right thinking husband will forbid it.
121. HINDATU: I hope so. 122. NGOZI: I know so. What I don’t know is if we can allow women who are not
farmers to join the group. 123. HINDATU: The truth is that many women in this area don’t actually farm.
Many of them own farms and other people run the farm for them. Most women are involved in processing and raising animals. These are all farming activities I think.
124. NGOZI: Okay, that makes sense. Any woman in our community should fit in … even tailors (LAUGHS)
125. HINDATU: But you own a vegetable garden, Ngozi, and rear animals. 126. NGOZI: Yes, I do. 127. HINDATU: So you are also qualified then. That was the same thing I told Uwa
but I don’t think her husband allowed her to grow the kitchen garden.
128. NGOZI: Oh I don’t think so. He has been very hard on her lately. I even heard that he has put her in purdah.
129. HINDATU: Yes oh. She asked me to talk to him about letting her out but I honestly don’t want to get involved in their matter. I don’t want people spreading rumors about me again.
130. NGOZI: I understand your reluctance. I will talk to him myself or better still perhaps get OC to have a man‐to‐man talk with him.
131. HINDATU: I hope he listens. Uwa has been complaining bitterly about how her family has been suffering because she has not been making money.
132. NGOZI: OC will speak with Kallamu. But Kallamu can be stubborn.
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133. HINDATU: In truth, though I’m upset with the way Uwa insulted me when she thought I had interest in her husband, I still feel it’s unfair of him to ground her like that without considering the impact his action will have on the income of the family and its wellbeing. Besides she’s a grown up. Husband and wife can sometimes disagree about issues but which one is punishment again?
134. NGOZI: Well like you said, it’s their business. Perhaps he’ll see reason. 135. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO 136. RIBADU (NARRATOR): My friends, it’s still your favorite agric program In Kidiya
Chanza … and I am still your host Ribadu. Interesting things are happening in our drama. What is Tanko up to? Why the changed attitude towards Babagana? Is there something about Babagana that we don’t know? Will the women farmers’ group finally start? What of Uwa, will her husband let her? Well, I don’t know the answer to those questions either. Just keep listening to the program and we will find out what will happen next. Someone came into the studio while we were listening to the drama. It’s no other person than Agronomist Yusuf. I’m sure he is very loaded with information today. Please stay tuned while we listen to this lovely music.
137. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER ... 138. RIBADU: Welcome back, friends. It’s still In Kidiya Chanza … and with me in
the studio is Mallam Yusuf from the agric institute. As you all know, Yusuf is a seasoned agronomist as well as a climate change expert and he is also a regular guest on this program. You are welcome Yusuf.
139. YUSUF: Thank you, Ribadu. I have been here several times but each time I still consider it an honour to be here.
140. RIBADU: That’s so nice of you. Can you guess what we’ll be talking about today?
141. YUSUF: I’m sorry, Ribadu. I have no idea. 142. RIBADU: Well I think we should discuss a topic that came out of the drama
and it is concerning farmers’ groups. I gave a little speech on that at the beginning of the program.
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143. YUSUF: Sorry I came a little late. I missed your speech. And yes, I heard Hindatu and Ngozi making serious plans about setting up a women farmers’ group.
144. RIBADU: And I think it is a very important idea. Or don’t you think so, Yusuf? 145. YUSUF: I sure do. I know that a lot of communities have farmers’ groups but
women farmers’ groups are not very common. 146. RIBADU: Still I believe we should tell our friends listening to this program
some of the benefits of belonging to an association. 147. YUSUF: The benefits are numerous. Obviously it is always better and easier
to belong to a group rather than be isolated as an individual farmer struggling on your own. Climate change affects the livelihoods and well‐being of farmers, herders and our families including women. Adaptation is the key to our survival but no one can go it alone any more.
148. RIBADU: I completely agree with you. As a member of a group you can count on support.
149. YUSUF: Yes. When you belong to an association you might attend meetings where you learn from each other about solutions to farming and other life challenges. Take the issue of sourcing and purchase of inputs such as seeds, fertilizers and pesticides. The cost will be greatly reduced because when groups buy, they do so in bulk and that means individual farmers will pay less than they would have if they had bought the individual quantity of inputs by themselves.
150. RIBADU: We all know that bulk purchases always attract discounts. 151. YUSUF: Not just that, transportation cost is shared by all members of the
group. That means each farmer pays far less on transportation by purchasing inputs through the group.
152. RIBADU: That is so true. Because the group will only appoint few people to go and do the purchasing.
153. YUSUF: Another benefit of belonging to a group is that the cost of obtaining information is reduced. Each member gets information directly from the group. This will save farmers the cost of making phone calls to find out information.
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154. RIBADU: You know Hindatu mentioned something about a local government scheme.
155. YUSUF: There are such opportunities everywhere but the government deals with groups and not individuals. So if there is an opportunity or a scheme for farmers, only farmers that belong to a group can benefit.
156. RIBADU: That makes a lot of sense from government’s point of view, because by working with groups, the government can reach more farmers at once. Also government will rather credit a group’s account than individual farmer’s account.
157. YUSUF: That’s very true, Ribadu. The benefits are endless. Farmers’ groups can share the same warehouse for storage and processing of their crops. And as we know, lower cost means higher profits.
158. RIBADU: So what advice can you give to people like Hindatu who wants to form a group?
159. YUSUF: She is a farmer and that is a good thing because the group should be formed by farmers themselves. They can include members of farming related livelihoods such as produce processing, as in those who make groundnut oil, soya milk or flour from grains. There are certain non‐governmental organizations known as Group Promoters whose mandate is to help set up groups and act as intermediary between the group and outside providers of services. However the Kakaran Jatau women’s farmers association can take off once they feel they have the right number of members for them. They can go to the Local government office and register their group name. With the certificate they will receive, they’ll be able to open a bank account and apply for any grants or loans in forms of improved seeds and inputs. To ensure that only those who are really interested join the association, all intending members should pay a registration fee determined reasonable by the members.
160. RIBADU: Okay! So after the group has been formed, how will she make it work?
161. YUSUF: I will advise her not to impose anything on the group. The needs of the farmers should be what is important. They all have to work
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together to prioritize their problems so that they can get help accordingly. They should have regular meetings and insist on regular attendance. As women, we know they have a lot of work and are very busy so the meetings should start on time and conclude quickly so as not to discourage members from fully participating.
162. RIBADU: I also think they need to assess all the benefits and costs of cooperating with each other. The benefits must outweigh the cost. Else, the group is not worthwhile.
163. YUSUF: That’s true, Ribadu. 164. RIBADU: Yes now. Nobody wants to waste his or her time. 165. YUSUF: I must say also that the group shouldn’t be too large. I expect that
during their meetings, there will be enlightenment programs. People learn faster in small groups than in large groups.
166. RIBADU: I suppose the groups have to be democratic. 167. YUSUF: Very! Every member should feel like they have a voice and can
express their opinion without fear. All members’ opinions should be respected even when people disagree, they should strive for consensus and common ground. The group members must be able to vote and decide who leads them, who joins them, what rules to follow and so on. Also they must be able to choose a name for themselves.
168. RIBADU: Talking about leaders, I know that people can become very dependent on a single individual especially when they know that the person is very active.
169. YUSUF: Leadership must be shared. It is very important and all members must learn to contribute. Not just ideas but also money.
170. RIBADU: Yes, I totally agree. There will be a time when the group purse will be needed.
171. YUSUF: With money comes accounting. There must be record keeping of how much is generated as well as how much is spent. And this should be shared with all members of the group. It will increase trust and commitment among the group.
172. RIBADU: That’s true.
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173. YUSUF: I must also add that at each meeting, records of what was decided must be kept as well. This is very important for monitoring group activities.
174. RIBADU: Thank you, Yusuf. You have been most helpful. 175. YUSUF: You are welcome, Ribadu. 176. RIBADU: Okay friends we are gradually coming to the end of today’s episode
of In Kidiya Chanza … but I wont leave without giving someone a chance to win a fabulous prize. You know how we do it. You just have to answer my question correctly and you stand a chance of winning great gifts. So here is the question “mention two benefits of belonging to a farmer’s group,” I repeat, “mention two benefits of belonging to a farmer’s group.” Send your answers with your name to this radio station and next week, you just might be a winner.
177. YUSUF: Good luck, friends. It’s an easy one. 178. RIBADU: Very easy for anyone who has been listening carefully. 179. YUSUF: Well, we mentioned more than two so I think you will receive lots
of letters this week. 180. RIBADU: Well, there are gifts awaiting winners of today’s quiz next week so
don’t forget to tune in. Some lucky person has won a valuable prize simply for participating In our quiz. Since she sent the correct answer by SMS, we’ll be inviting her to come and collect her prize. If you want to win also, send us today’s answer and you might be lucky too. Trust we’ve had a good time today! Join us next week same time same station. Tell your friends about it. Remember, it’s In Kidiya Chanza … bye!!!
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Rebecca Ojedele of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 22
TOPIC: ANIMAL TRACTION
Characters Narrator – Ribadu Babagana Hindatu Tanko Sahura Altine Dije Agric expert (Mariam)
1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER … 2. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5
AND UNDER ... 3. NARRATOR (RIBADU): WELCOME FRIENDS TO TODAY’S SEGMENT OF IN KIDIYA
CHANZA … A DRAMA PROGRAM ABOUT PEOPLE JUST LIKE US, MEN AND WOMEN DEALING WITH CHANGE IN A POSITIVE WAY. MY NAME IS RIBADU AND I’M A FULANI HERDSMAN LIKE MY FATHER BEFORE ME. TODAY PROMISES TO BE ANOTHER INTERESTING EPISODE AS I HAVE WITH ME IN THE STUDIO AN AGRIC EXPERT WHO IS GOING TO EXPLAIN TO US HOW WE CAN MINIMIZE LABOUR ON THE FARM AND STILL ACHIEVE MAXIMUM PRODUCTIVITY. SOUNDS IMPOSSIBLE? TRUST ME, YOU’LL BE PLEASANTLY SURPRISED. FIRST LET US GO TO KAKARAN JATAU AND FIND OUT WHAT HINDATU AND OUR OTHER FRIENDS ARE UP TO TODAY.
4. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ... SCENE 1: 5. SFX: OUTDOOR. AMBIENCE OF A FARMLAND. 6. HINDATU: (EXCITEDLY) Wow, Babagana, look at this. The millet and sorghum
are growing so well. 7. BABAGANA: What did you expect, Hindatu?
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8. HINDATU: Babagana, I have to admit that I was very skeptical at first when you told me about using just a little quantity of fertilizer. I just gave it a try and look at this! I can’t believe how well the crops are improving already in just 2 weeks.
9. BABAGANA: Well, micro‐dosing is a method that works. I’m glad you are experiencing it yourself. At least, this is something you can share with your women farmers’ group when it takes off.
10. HINDATU: I’m sure they’ll be glad to learn about this. You know we are all used to the old method of applying plenty of fertilizer, even when we can hardly afford it. Tanko had already given me an estimate of how much we’ll need to spend on fertilizer. But with your method, I spent only half of the amount Tanko estimated. Thank you so much. Where did you learn all this farming tricks from?
11. BABAGANA: In the farmers’ association I belonged to. We were taught a lot of new farming methods by extension workers from an agricultural institute near my home.
12. HINDATU: And where is that? 13. BABAGANA: Where is what? 14. HINDATU: Your home! 15. BABAGANA: Oh that! Why do you want to know my home town? 16. HINDATU: No particular reason. I’m just curious. 17. BABAGANA: Curiosity kills the cat, you know! And moreover, it’s a far away land.
It’s probably a place you’ve never even heard of before. 18. HINDATU: Why are you making such a big deal out of where you’re from? Is
not like it’s a national secret, is it? All you just had to say was the name of the place.
19. BABAGANA: And what will that information benefit you? 20. HINDATU: Well, I guess you’re right. It’s none of my business, anyway. 21. SFX: SILENCE. SILENCE SHATTERED BY SOUND OF BIRDS CHIRPING. 22. BABAGANA: So what are your plans for harvest? 23. HINDATU: Well, you know that our women group is just kicking off. I want to
liaise with the agric office to help us with the storage and sale of our grains as a first activity. I believe when we store our goods together as a group, the cost will be reduced.
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24. BABAGANA: Sure. I was actually asking about the harvest proper. How much labour will you require? You and I and maybe Tanko alone cannot do the harvest by ourselves. Moreover, you will need to pay the labourers and I know that you’ve been complaining that you didn’t have money for a while now.
25. HINDATU: Oh, I have a little money set aside for the harvest. Dorcas, my friend, brought some money from the farm we both own in Kaworana. I’ve used some of the money to buy drugs for my father, but the rest will be used for the harvest. Although, by the time I pay you all that we owe you, there’ll be very little left.
26. BABAGANA: Oh, don’t worry about me yet. After the harvest, you can pay me from the profit you make from sales.
27. HINDATU: Why will you say that? I know that you are being considerate, but it’s only fair that I pay you. I’m sure that you have a wife and kids to take care of.
28. BABAGANA: (LAUGHS) Wife and kids, anh? I’m not married oh, Hindatu. 29. HINDATU: Yeah, right! As old as you are? Is something wrong with you? 30. BABAGANA: Nothing is wrong with me, but I’m not married. But I can see that
you don’t believe me. 31. HINDATU: Babagana, it’s really not my business if you are married or not.
About the harvest, there is a group of people that usually comes around here during harvest time for years to work for my father and other farmers for a fee. I expect they’ll come as usual around the time, but with my father still ill … I don’t know … I mean I don’t even know what the terms are or even how to negotiate with them. Besides to be perfectly honest, I doubt I can even afford to pay them anything …
32. BABAGANA: So what will you do? 33. HINDATU: I’ll have to hire labour from around here as well as make sure
everyone at home helps out. Though the children may have to miss school for a while.
34. BABAGANA: What about the bull and the donkey? We make use of them too, you know, and this will cut down on the labour.
35. HINDATU: How?
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36. BABAGANA: Well Tanko told me your father used to plough and do the ridges by hitching them to his bull. We can also use animals during harvest, not just for cultivation. We only need to build carts and attach them to solve the transportation and conveyance problems.
37. HINDATU: I know about that. I just think the cost may be too much. And after we are done with it, the cart becomes useless.
38. BABAGANA: Not true, you can rent it out to neighbors for a fee. You might even end up making some money that way.
39. HINDATU: But how much does it cost to make a cart? 40. BABAGANA: I’m not sure. Maybe if we buy the materials ourselves, it might be
cheap as we’ll only have to pay for the workmanship. Yes, that’s what we should do. I’ll work out the cost of the materials right away.
41. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2 42. SFX: LIGHT HAUSA MUSIC PLAYING SOFTLY 43. TANKO: (CALLS OUT) Sister! Sister!! Sahura! Sahura!! 44. SAHURA: Why are you shouting my name, Tanko? Come inside now. 45. TANKO: Sorry. I wasn’t sure if you were inside. 46. SFX: MUSIC STOPS PLAYING 47. SAHURA: Why is your face so hard? Did you fight with someone? 48. TANKO: No! I didn’t fight with anybody. 49. SAHURA: So what is the problem? 50. TANKO: It’s Babagana. I just saw him leaving the farm now with Hindatu. 51. SAHURA: So? Don’t they work on the farm together? 52. TANKO: So? Is that what you are going to say? Or do you want to deny that
you have been noticing those two lately? They are always together and it’s so annoying. He is just a hireling.
53. SAHURA: (THOUGHTFULLY) Honestly, Tanko. I thought I was the only one who has been watching those two. I wonder what is going on between them.
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54. TANKO: Stop wondering. They are obviously in a relationship. If not, I don’t understand why Babagana, who is my employee by the way, can have the guts to talk back when I’m talking to him.
55. SAHURA: What do you mean? When did that happen? 56. TANKO: (SIGHS) Everybody knows that I am the one that buys fertilizer for
our farm. Even when Alhaji Maikano was around, it was my duty to buy the fertilizer and other farm inputs, and I know just the quantity to buy.
57. SAHURA: (IMPATIENT) Yes! So what happened? 58. TANKO: Can you believe that Babagana went behind my back and convinced
Hindatu that we need just a little amount of fertilizer? Because of that, Hindatu went and bought the fertilizer by herself.
59. SAHURA: (SURPRISED) Are you serious? 60. TANKO: Dead serious. As if that was not enough, when I confronted him, do
you know what he told me? He said he has not done anything wrong.
61. SAHURA: You don’t mean it. What is giving him such gumption? 62. TANKO: Hindatu! No other person. I’m sure they are having an affair. Else
why will he be so confident and insolent? He even moves around the house like he is a part of the family.
63. SAHURA: Who is that boy even? Where did he come from? 64. TANKO: Honestly, Sahura, I don’t know. He only told me that he was sent to
me by my friend Suleiman, and now I don’t know if that is even true anymore.
65. SAHURA: What? You didn’t verify his story? 66. TANKO: No, and now I regret that badly. I haven’t seen Suleiman in years. 67. SAHURA: (EXCLAIMS) Subu a nallai! Wali am du ninllai!! (PRAYS FOR GOD’S
MERCY AND DELIVERANCE) You don’t know anything about him and you employed him and put him in the house? What if he is a murderer? What if he had killed us all while we were sleeping?
68. TANKO: He is not a murderer. 69. SAHURA: But he could have been a thief! Do you think I would have taken it
lightly with you if he had stolen all our jewelries in this house?
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70. TANKO: Sister, I admit I was careless. I shouldn’t have trusted him so completely. What threw me off was when he mentioned Suleiman. Suleiman is a very good man. And Babagana didn’t look like a bad man either.
71. SAHURA: Bad men don’t write it on their foreheads. 72. TANKO: He deceived us all, including you. Admit it. I saw how you were all
over him when he first came. You totally forgot that you were married.
73. SAHURA: God forbid. Me and Babagana? Never! Fine. The mistake has been done. Where does the Suleiman fellow stay?
74. TANKO: Sabo Bature. 75. SAHURA: You have to go to Sabo Bature and meet your friend Suleiman quick,
quick, quick. You must find out everything about this Babagana of a man.
76. TANKO: I don’t have enough money to go there. 77. SAHURA: I’ll give you the money. Look, Tanko, you have to take this matter
seriously. At the rate this is going, Babagana may lure Hindatu into marrying him and you know what that means? A stranger will end up being your boss in this house.
78. TANKO: God forbid! 79. SAHURA: I’m sure we don’t want that to happen. 80. TANKO: Look, Sahura, I’ll leave for Sabo Bature tomorrow morning. The
earlier I find out everything about this imposter, the better. 81. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 82. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 83. ALTINE: (SIGHS) Oh God, I’m so tired. Dije, how now? 84. DIJE: Ah ah! Who is this stranger in my house? 85. ALTINE: Stranger? In whose house? Dije, are you alright? 86. DIJE: Altine or what is it they call you? It is you that is not alright. 87. ALTINE: (SIGHS) Dije, please don’t start this afternoon. I do not have your
time. I only came home to pick some things for my husband, not to trade words with you.
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88. DIJE: Your husband? Altine, did you just remember that you have a husband? Or is it just that your mother forgot to tell you that a married woman has responsibilities in her husband’s house? I won’t be surprised if she told you but you simply refused to learn.
89. ALTINE: Dije, are you mad? Oh, I see. It is not just madness. You are possessed. If not, I don’t know why you just can’t keep your mouth shut for a second.
90. DIJE: (LAUGHS MALICIOUSLY) Eeee. Look at this good for nothing woman calling me mad. Who is the mad one? A woman who goes about trading herself to the highest bidder or a decent married woman? Look, Altine, don’t let me tell you your life history now.
91. ALTINE: Dije, I know what your problem is. You are simply jealous because you are just a poor good‐for‐nothing woman and I am an accomplished self‐made woman. And I’m sorry for you because you can never be like me, no matter how hard you try. Stop trying to be a wanna‐be.
92. DIJE: Look at this husband snatching prostitute. Who do you think you are?
93. ALTINE: (HAUGHTILY) You want to know who I am? I am Altine, the wife of OC the Mai anguwar, the first lady of Kakaran Jatau. Do you want to hear more or do you want to go on barking, mad dog?
94. DIJE: Who told you that you are a wife? Wives know themselves. And trust me, you do not know the meaning of that word.
95. ALTINE: Is that all you can say? I thought you were very good at abuse. Talk now! I am ready for you. Because very soon I won’t have to put up with you anymore. My husband is so fed up with you he is sending you back to your parents.
96. DIJE: That is a very big lie and you know it. It is you, you smelly‐mouthed nonentity, that will leave. This is my husband’s house and you are just a passer‐by. You will leave just as quickly as you came. I will make sure of that, Altine.
97. ALTINE: You can try all you want, Dije. There is nothing you can do. I am here to stay. I am a wife just like you.
98. DIJE: We will see to that. You stupid woman.
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99. ALTINE: And you are an idiot. I have never seen a more dumb, lazy and totally brainless woman in my life. What in heaven’s name did you spend all your growing up years on?
100. DIJE: I was learning proper home training. Which you clearly lack. 101. ALTINE: And the training didn’t include how you can work and fend for
yourself? You are totally dependent on our husband. I don’t know how any grown up human being will just sit down and contribute nothing to the world. How can you live with yourself like this?
102. DIJE: (PROUDLY) Altine, it is my husband’s job to take care of me and he is not complaining. He got himself a well‐trained woman and he is doing his job as a husband. I can’t say the same for you. After prostituting and making all your dirty money, you still ended up buying yourself a husband.
103. ALTINE: And a good bargain it is. I got myself a whole Mai anguwar. I should be proud.
104. DIJE: No, you should be ashamed. You are not the first or the second wife. Still you go around parading yourself as first lady. Are you not ashamed of yourself?
105. ALTINE: (LAUGHS) Eeya, don’t cry, Dije. Just accept that you are now an old housewife who has no use other than to just sit at home. While young virile women like us attend to more important issues.
106. DIJE: (HYSTERICALLY) Leave my house, Altine. Leave! Before I descend on you now.
107. ALTINE: What house? You call this a house? Even look at the house. See how dirty the place is. You are just so lazy, Dije. What do you do with yourself all day? I have my maid Suweiba here to help with chores and still you cannot lift a finger to clean the house. Thank God I don’t live here.
108. DIJE: You can’t even live here. You’ll be dead by now. Your mouth is running like parrot and you feel like you can talk, right? I will deal with you.
109. ALTINE: What can you do? You can’t do more than a dead rat! I know how to deal with you. But I don’t have your time now. I’m leaving. I’m
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going to my house in town. The house befitting for a Mai anguwar and the first lady.
110. DIJE: Yes, go. Don’t bother coming to this house ever again oh. Try me, Altine, if I will not break those tiny bones of yours into pieces.
111. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 4 112. SFX: OUTDOORS. VOICE HUMMING A HAUSA FOLK TUNE 113. HINDATU: Sahura! Where have you been? I’ve been looking everywhere for
you. 114. SAHURA: I am here, Hindatu. All is well, God willing? 115. HINDATU: What have you been doing by yourself in the backyard? 116. SAHURA: The heat inside has been too much for me to bear. I was almost
feeling faint. I’ve never known the weather so hot around this period.
117. HINDATU: Eeya! Sorry!! 118. SAHURA: Thanks. You know, Alhaji Maikano promised to buy a fan for my
room but unfortunately for me, he fell ill before he could buy it. I’ve been thinking about him all day. Oh, I miss him so much.
119. HINDATU: (UNBELIEVING) Really? 120. SAHURA: Why do you sound like you doubt me? Is he not my husband and is
it strange that I’ll miss him so much. Or do you think because he is your father, you are the only one missing him?
121. HINDATU: Of course not. I’m just surprised. 122. SAHURA: Well, it’s true. (TEARFULLY) Oh God, I can’t wait for him to come
back home. (MORE TEARS) 123. HINDATU: (IN ANNOYANCE) Sahura, please stop the charade. You and I know
that you don’t love the man. 124. SAHURA: (IN SHOCK) What do you mean? How can you say I don’t love my
husband? 125. HINDATU: I’m not going into that debate with you, Sahura. You have not been
the best behaved wife and you know it. So please don’t pretend you don’t know what I mean.
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126. SAHURA: (CLAPS HER HAND IN DISGUST) You, Hindatu! Talking to me about misbehavior! Who do you think you are?
127. HINDATU: (SURPRISED AT THE OUTBURST) Sahura, what? 128. SAHURA: Sahura what? First it was you and Kallamu. Now you are busy
hanging onto Babagana and you have the guts to talk to me about misbehavior?
129. HINDATU: If you want to insult me, Sahura, go ahead and do it but I will still tell you the truth. Your husband has been in the hospital for months and I can count on the fingers on one hand how many times you have been to visit him.
130. SAHURA: Whether I go or not to visit him, what’s your business with it? Mts! (KISSING HER FRONT TEETH IN DISGUST). Come and force me to go now. Nonsense.
131. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO 132. RIBADU (NARRATOR): It’s still your favorite agriculture and climate change
adaptation radio program In Kidiya Chanza … and I am still your host, Ribadu. I wonder how Hindatu will deal with all the plotting around her. And Babagana, we don’t know much about his private life except that he is a knowledgeable farmer. So what will Tanko find during his quest to Sabo Bature? Your guess is as good as mine, so I will keep listening. How about you? You’ll agree with me that there are so many life lessons to learn from that drama. Remember the program is not ended; we still have an agric expert in the studio who will enlighten us on a very important subject and techniques to help us adapt to climate change. But before then, let’s unwind with this song.
133. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER ... 134. RIBADU: Welcome back, friends. It’s still In Kidiya Chanza … and Hajia Dr.
Mariam is here today. For those of you who don’t know her, Hajia Mariam is an agric expert as well as an authority on climate change matters. Pretty impressive for a woman, right? You are welcome to the program, Hajia.
135. MARIAM: Thank you, Baba Ribadu. But why did you make that remark about me being a woman?
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136. RIBADU: I didn’t mean that as an insult. You know in this part of the country, some people find it difficult to accept that women can be very knowledgeable about agric matters.
137. MARIAM: I am very aware of that misguided thought. But at least there are women like Hindatu everywhere who prove that kind of notion wrong.
138. RIBADU: Very true. I think we should move on to the topic for the day though. 139. MARIAM: And what is it? 140. RIBADU: Animal traction. You know we heard Babagana in the drama
advising Hindatu to build carts for their bull. I am aware that people use animals for land preparation.
141. MARIAM: That’s true and it’s very effective, too. Animal traction simply means using animals for farm and domestic work when hitched to implements or carts. Animal traction is used for farm operations such as ploughing, ridging, harrowing, intercultivation, threshing and pulling water out of very deep wells and so on and so forth.
142. RIBADU: But is it true animal traction can be used during harvest also? 143. MARIAM: Of course. Why not? Animal traction can be used throughout the
year and during harvest in particular for transportation and conveyance of produce and threshing.
144. RIBADU: I hope the use of animals for manual work on the farm does no harm to the animals? You know that Islam is very much against man doing any animal harm.
145. MARIAM: No, animal traction does not harm the animals. Rather, it keeps them in training. Making them fit and strong.
146. RIBADU: I know that some farmers use their animals without carts. What do you think?
147. MARIAM: I think by so doing, they are underutilizing the potential of those animals. The animal can do much more when carts are attached to them.
148. RIBADU: I’m sure a lot of people know that. Even if they own an animal, they don’t have implements or a cart. Maybe cost is a restraining factor to them.
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149. MARIAM: But it doesn’t have to cost much to build a cart. The carts can be made using axles, wheels and other iron parts from scrapped motor vehicles. And the good thing is that these materials are sold at very reasonable prices.
150. RIBADU: For those that are still skeptical, can you tell them some of the benefits they can get from animal traction?
151. MARIAM: Animal traction can increase crop production by allowing farmers to cultivate more farmland. With the use of animals, farmers can actually put more of their farmland to use without paying for additional labour.
152. RIBADU: That’s very important. And I think, with animals, time is saved too. 153. MARIAM: Of course, the timeliness of ploughing, seeding and weeding is
improved. This timeliness can lead to increased crop production. 154. RIBADU: So it’s beneficial all the way. 155. MARIAM: Yes. Animal traction is also very useful for transportation purposes.
Animal‐drawn carts provide new marketing opportunities and facilitate the movement of goods, people, produce, water, crop residues and manure. Depending on the purpose, bulls or donkeys can be used to help farmers cut down on the labour and time requirements of their work.
156. RIBADU: Babagana was also saying something about renting the animal drawn carts to neighbours for a fee. Do you think that is a likely idea?
157. MARIAM: Of course. The rent will definitely bring more cash to the farmer. But you also don’t have to overwork the animal. To ensure that animal traction remains profitable and sustainable, there must be adequate access to equipment repair and veterinary services.
158. RIBADU: Sure, animals must have adequate care if we want them to live long. So what are some of the problems of animal traction?
159. MARIAM: I won’t call them problems. I’ll say constraints. One major constraint is the health of the animal being used for the traction, as we have mentioned earlier. This makes the need for veterinary services very vital.
160. RIBADU: Sure. So what advice will you give farmers out there?
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161. MARIAM: Well, they mustn’t forget that the animals must be properly fed, especially in the dry months. Their nutrition is very important. It’s especially important to ensure that you have reliable sources of fodder for the dry months. Their food must be of good quality and must satisfy them. Hitch equipment to your animal carefully so as not to injure or wound it. Any sores should be treated properly with the right medicine by trained personnel, a Vet or paravet.
162. RIBADU: I’m sure any farmer who wants to adopt animal traction will ensure that the animals have adequate feed and care. Sadly, though I want to talk some more, this is the end of today’s program. Thank you for coming on the program, Hajia Mariam.
163. MARIAM: You are welcome, Ribadu. It’s my pleasure anytime. 164. RIBADU: Thank you. But before we go, we have to give our listeners a chance
to win some fabulous prizes on the program by answering my question correctly first. Today’s question is “mention two benefits of animal traction.” I repeat, “Mention two benefits of animal traction.” You can send your answers with your name and address by SMS to this phone no‐‐‐‐‐‐. The winner will be contacted before the next episode comes your way.
165. MARIAM: That’s easy. May I send my answer too? I would like a shot at winning a fabulous prize also. 166. RIBADU: Sorry, Hajia Doctor Mariam. The contest is for the farmers and
herders out there listening to the program, not for you or me. Sorry. Okay, it’s time to go. Join us again next week, same time, same station. Until then, keep practicing what you’ve learned and tell your friends and family about this program “In Kidiya Chanza ….” Bye for now.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Rebecca Ojedele of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 23
TOPIC: REDUCTION OF PESTS & DISEASES IN LIVESTOCK ‐ CATTLE, HEALTHY CHICKEN ‐ LOCAL BREEDS
Characters Narrator ‐ Ribadu Hundatu Sahura Danjuma Bulus Kallamu Rakiya Agric expert (Yusuf)
127. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER … 128. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5
AND UNDER ... 129. NARRATOR (RIBADU):WELCOME, FRIENDS, TO TODAY’S SEGMENT OF IN KIDIYA
CHANZA … A DRAMA PROGRAM ABOUT PEOPLE JUST LIKE US, MEN AND WOMEN DEALING WITH CHANGE IN A POSITIVE WAY. MY NAME IS RIBADU AND I’M A FULANI HERDSMAN LIKE MY FATHER BEFORE ME. ON THIS PROGRAM, WE HAVE BEEN LISTENING TO THE FARMERS AND HERDSMEN IN THE STORIES DEAL WITH THE CHALLENGES OF EXTREME WEATHER OCCURRENCES DUE TO CLIMATE CHANGE. ADAPTATION TO THOSE CHANGES SUCH AS LATE ONSET, QUICK CESSATION, EXTREME DRY SPELLS AND HEAT, HEAVY SAND OR RAIN STORMS AND FLASH FLOODS HAVE BEEN THE THEMES WE’VE ADDRESSED ACCORDING TO THE TRUTH OF THE PROVERB, “WHEN THE DRUM BEATS CHANGE, THE DANCER MUST CHANGE HIS DANCE STEPS.” BUT CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACT IN THE AREA OF PROLIFERATION OF DISEASES AND PESTS IS A REALITY FOR FARMERS AND HERDSMEN ALIKE. TODAY WE WILL LEARN HOW TO REDUCE PESTS AND DISEASES IN LIVESTOCK, SO DON’T GO AWAY BECAUSE WE HAVE INVITED A FRIEND OF THIS PROGRAM, SOMEONE WHO IS AN AGRICULTURAL AND CLIMATE CHANGE EXPERT TO TALK ABOUT THAT. MEANWHILE, WHAT IS GOING ON IN
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ALHAJI MAIKANO’S HOUSEHOLD WHILE HE CONTINUES TO LAY SICK IN HOSPITAL? AND DORCAS AND BULUS AND NOT FORGETTING HIS WOMAN FRIEND RAKIYA. HOW WILL THEIR RELATIONSHIPS WORK OUT? LET’S HURRY TO KAKARAN JATAU TO LISTEN ….
130. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ... SCENE 1:
131. SFX: KNOCK ON THE DOOR 132. HINDATU: (CALLS OUT OFF MIC) Sahura! Sahura!! Where are you? 133. SAHURA: (ON MIC) Yes? I’m inside. 134. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 135. HINDATU: Sahura! I’ve looked everywhere for you. 136. SAHURA: Except my quarters, Hindatu. I’ve been in here for a while. 137. HINDATU: Okay. No problem. Emm, where is Tanko? 138. SAHURA: Tanko? What about him? 139. HINDATU: I haven’t seen him for a while now, almost a week in fact. I’m
wondering if you know where he is. 140. SAHURA: A week? Well, I don’t know his whereabouts. 141. HINDATU: You don’t? 142. SAHURA: How will I know? He is an adult. He can choose to go wherever he
wants. Or do you think because he is my brother, I have to tie him to my apron?
143. HINDATU: Sahura, you haven’t seen your brother for almost a week and you are not concerned? That’s very unbelievable because I know how close both of you are.
144. SAHURA: Are you calling me a liar, Hindatu? 145. HINDATU: I’m not calling you a liar, Sahura, but you obviously think I’m dumb. I
know it’s just not possible for you not to know where Tanko has gone to. It’s better to tell me you can’t say than tell me you don’t know.
146. SAHURA: Why are you looking for Tanko? 147. HINDATU: One of the cows is sick. It is in pain and cannot walk properly. 148. SAHURA: Why? What’s wrong with it? 149. HINDATU: I think it has a problem in the hoof, and where is Tanko, for God’s
sake? 150. SAHURA: Tanko? When did he become a veterinary doctor?
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151. HINDATU: He doesn’t have to be a doctor to deal with the situation. If the cow needs a doctor then Tanko should arrange for it.
152. SAHURA: When did Tanko become your errand boy? He is my brother, not one of your farm hands.
153. HINDATU: He is family no doubt, and he is responsible for the animals. He shouldn’t just leave the house without ensuring that someone cares for the animals in his absence.
154. SAHURA: I have been feeding the animals whether Tanko is around or not. As for the cow with the bad hoof, you deal with it because I am not a doctor.
155. HINDATU: Neither am I, Sahura. And I don’t like the idea of doing Tanko’s job for him. Since Alhaji became ill, he has stopped doing all his regular farm chores.
156. SAHURA: Why won’t he stop? You’ve been doing everything by yourself and you all but told him he wasn’t needed.
157. HINDATU: How can you say a thing like that? 158. SAHURA: Why can’t I? Is it not true? It’s even worse now that Babagana is
around. Why are you not telling him to take care of the sick cow? Why is Tanko, the reject, now important? Or is Babagana no longer man enough?
159. HINDATU: Why are you talking like we are both wives fighting over the same man?
160. SAHURA: I’m not dragging anything with you, Hindatu. I’m just telling you the truth.
161. HINDATU: Only God will deliver you, Sahura. 162. SAHURA: Ah, very soon the truth will be revealed. We will soon know who is
who. 163. HINDATU: I swear to God, Sahura, sometimes talking to you is like talking to a
concrete wall. I never know what you are going on about. 164. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2 165. SFX: KNOCK ON THE DOOR 166. BULUS: (GRUMPILY, ON MIC) Who is it this early morning?
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167. DANJUMA: (OFF MIC) Brother Bulus, it’s Danjuma. 168. BULUS: (SURPRISED) Danjuma? Come in! 169. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 170. DANJUMA: (EXCITEDLY) Brother Bulus! Good morning! 171. BULUS: Danjuma. How are you? Are you coming from school? 172. DANJUMA: Yes, brother Bulus. I just finished my WAEC exams (West African
Secondary School certificate examinations). Brother. Kai! Boarding school was hell. I am so glad I am through.
173. BULUS: (STRETCHING, YAWNING) Well, now that you are through, you have just entered the real world.
174. DANJUMA: Ah, sorry brother, did I wake you? 175. BULUS: Of course you did. I didn’t know you were the one at the door. I
almost cursed the person oh. 176. DANJUMA: Are you ill? 177. BULUS: No, why did you ask? 178. DANJUMA: I’m just surprised that you are just waking up. Are you not going to
the farm? 179. BULUS: No. I’ll be picking up passengers on my motorcycle today. 180. DANJUMA: (SURPRISED) Oh, you have a motorcycle now? 181. BULUS: Yes. That’s what I make daily money from and trust me, it is very
lucrative. 182. DANJUMA: So you no longer farm? 183. BULUS: I still farm. But I operate the motorcycle on a part‐time basis. 184. DANJUMA: What of Aunty Dorcas and the girls? 185. BULUS: The girls have gone to school and Dorcas has gone to the farm. Did
you come here straight from school? 186. DANJUMA: Yes! I decided to see you first before going to the house. Mama
Bulus hasn’t seen me yet. I already went to the farm to look for you but some people said you were at home.
187. BULUS: Why the urgency to see me? You could have gone home first before coming here. I’m sure mama has missed you so much. She has been complaining about everything from leg pain to back ache. Now that you are home, at least you can take care of her.
188. DANJUMA: I’ll do what I can, but I really wanted to see you first.
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189. BULUS: What do you want? Because I know the need to see me must have a lot of strings attached. So out with it.
190. DANJUMA: (CHUCKLES) Brother Bulus, can’t I just want to say hi because I’ve missed you? Anyway, I want to tell you that now that I’m through with school cert, I’ve decided what I want to do with my life.
191. BULUS: Really? That sounds huge. 192. DANJUMA: You know I’ve always liked animals. So I made enquiries and I learnt
that there is a training course I can do to become a paravet. 193. BULUS: Where? 194. DANJUMA: At the institute of technology in the city. 195. BULUS: Okay. If that’s what you want, go for it. 196. DANJUMA: I need to get the forms as soon as possible before the application
closes. 197. BULUS: So go and apply, what are you waiting for? 198. DANJUMA: But Brother Bulus, I don’t have the money for the application forms. 199. BULUS: Aha! And what makes you think I have money? 200. DANJUMA: Ah‐ah, brother Bulus! Please, I beg you. This is the only opportunity
I have. Please brother, if I don’t do this I will never be fulfilled. Please, brother Bulus. Please.
201. BULUS: I don’t have money, Danjuma. Go and ask Mama. She might have money to give you.
202. DANJUMA: Brother Bulus, where will Mama have money? Please, brother. If I miss this opportunity and don’t act fast, the application will be closed. Please.
203. BULUS: Oh alright. Go home and come back later in the evening. Hopefully I would have made some money.
204. DANJUMA: (PROFUSELY) Thank you very much. Thank you. You are a good brother. Thank you.
205. BULUS: That’s okay. But in the meantime, you can make yourself useful on the farm in my absence.
206. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 207. SFX: SOUND OF AMBULANCE SIREN. AMBIENCE OF A HOSPITAL.
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208. HINDATU: (SURPRISED) Ah, Mallam Kallamu, good afternoon. 209. KALLAMU: (HAPPILY) Oh, Hindatu. Asalam a leikun. 210. HINDATU: Maleikun salaam, Kallamu. Are you here to see my father or is there
someone else you know in the hospital? 211. KALLAMU: I’m here to see your father. I can see that you are leaving already …
I hope my friend is getting better, God willing? 212. HINDATU: He is getting better by God’s grace, as you will see when you see
him. I brought him his food. You know how much he hates hospital food.
213. KALLAMU: I know. And you are such a good daughter. May Allah reward you. 214. HINDATU: And you too, Kallamu. I am touched, Mallam, that you can still make
out time to come and see father in the hospital. Even family members have tired already but you still come. I’m so grateful.
215. KALLAMU: You don’t know how good your father has been to me over the years. He was the one that helped me settle down and own a large farm land when I first arrived in Kakaran Jatau.
216. HINDATU: I am sure that father has helped a lot of people, but how many of them remember him? How many of them are as loyal and faithful like you? Kallamu, you are a good man.
217. KALLAMU: Thank you, Hindatu, but your father made life very easy for me. The first few years of my arrival in Kakara Jatau were very challenging, but it would have been worse if not for your father.
218. HINDATU: Well, I’m sure I was not born then, because as far as I remember, you and your wife Lami have always been there. I grew up knowing you as my father’s friend and you still are. That’s impressive, I must say.
219. KALLAMU: True friendship hardly dies. I’m glad he is responding to treatment though. But is he not getting bored being stuck in this hospital for this long?
220. HINDATU: That was the discussion I had with his doctor just some few minutes ago. I told them that I think father will respond better to treatment if he is in a familiar environment surrounded by his friends and family instead of staying permanently in the hospital like this.
221. KALLAMU: What did they say?
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222. HINDATU: They agreed. They said that he is better at home if there are people there to take care of him. He will just be coming to the hospital once in a while for check‐up.
223. KALLAMU: Allawu akbar! That is good news. If you ever need anybody to look after him, please don’t hesitate to call me. I don’t have a problem with taking care of him.
224. HINDATU: (CHUCKLES) Of course it won’t get to that. Alhaji has three wives, remember? And I am here. By the time we all take turns, he will be well taken care of. I am sure of it. How is your family?
225. KALLAMU: They are all fine. Insha Allah. 226. HINDATU: (SERIOUSLY) But Uwa is still in purdah. Don’t you think you should
have forgiven her by now? 227. KALLAMU: I grounded her for a year. She is just beginning her sentence. There
is nothing to forgive. 228. HINDATU: But Kallamu, you need to relax a little. Keeping her at home is not
helping matters. Rather, your decision is hurting your entire family. 229. KALLAMU: Look, Hindatu, I warned that woman but she wouldn’t listen. Her
disobedience is just too much for me to bear. 230. HINDATU: Kallamu, she was jealous. She thought you had something to do
with me. Keeping her grounded is not the best way to deal with the situation. Now that she can’t go to the market to do her regular business, the family is suffering for it. At least the little she makes assists you in some ways.
231. KALLAMU: That’s the reason she became disrespectful. I am the man of that house. She cannot boss me around because she brings in some stipends. I will not stand for that.
232. HINDATU: I understand. But she was just jealous. Marriage is about compromise and understanding. All you needed to do was reassure her that the rumors were unfounded. That you were not planning on marrying a new wife.
233. KALLAMU: That’s just the point. I don’t need her permission to marry a wife. If I want a wife, I will marry her and there is nothing she can do about it.
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234. HINDATU: Kallamu, if you want another wife, nobody can stop you. But you should tell your wives. You should get their blessing. They can’t do anything about it, but they are human beings with feelings, just like you. Please, I beg you to forgive Uwa.
235. KALLAMU: Alright, Hindatu, I’ve heard what you’ve said. You know I value your opinion so I will think about it, because it’s you‐o.
236. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 4 237. SFX: MOTORCYCLE ROARING AND IN MOTION … 238. RAKIYA: (CALLS OUT) Bulus!! Bulus!! 239. SFX: MOTORCYCLE COMES TO A HALT AND ENGINE DIES 240. BULUS: Rakiya! Sorry I didn’t see you on time. 241. RAKIYA: How will you? You were on such a high speed. 242. BULUS: That’s the beauty of riding a new powerful bike. Where are you off
to? 243. RAKIYA: I’m going into town. Is that not where you are headed? 244. BULUS: No, I’m going to the farm to pick up Dorcas. 245. RAKIYA: Hmm. Na wa oh. So both of you are really loving up now, right? 246. BULUS: What do you mean by loving up? She is my wife and she asks me to
come and pick her up from the farm. That’s duty, not love. 247. RAKIYA: If you say so. But your actions are saying otherwise. 248. BULUS: What do you mean by that, Rakiya? 249. RAKIYA: You claim to love me. I should be more important. You shouldn’t
brush me aside because of your wife. 250. BULUS: Rakiya, I’m not brushing you aside. I didn’t know I’ll even meet you
here. It’s just that I have made other plans. 251. RAKIYA: (HARSHLY) So are you saying you won’t take me to town? 252. BULUS: Okay. Hop in. 253. RAKIYA: (MOCKINGLY) What about your other plans? 254. BULUS: (CHUCKLES) You are more important than other plans. Moreover, if
Dorcas does not see me, she will find her way. 255. RAKIYA: (HAPPILY) That’s my Bulus. Don’t worry, when we come back, I’ll
make you the best chicken stew you’ve ever had in your life.
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256. BULUS: That’s nice. Now if you can get pregnant and give me a son, I will even take you to the moon if you wish to go there, my dearest.
257. SFX: BIKE ENGINE REVS UP AND TAKES OFF AND WE HEAR A BIG CRASH AND CRY
258. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO 259. RIBADU: What is that we just heard? I hope Bulus and Rakiya are alright? If
not, what is going to happen? Let us hope that this has not put paid to Danjuma’s dream of becoming a paravet. And where in God’s name is Tanko doing his digging of Babagana’s past? Well, you can only find answers to all these questions on this program. Remember, it’s In Kidiya Chanza … but before we continue, let us listen to this beautiful music.
260. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER ... 261. RIBADU: Welcome back friends. It’s still In Kidiya Chanza … and I have with
me in the studio, a friend of this program and farmers, a renowned agric expert Dr. Yusuf. You are welcome, Yusuf.
262. YUSUF: Thank you, Ribadu. (LAUGHS) Your praise is worth more than precious stones.
263. RIBADU: (LAUGHS) Ah, but it is well deserved, doctor. (SERIOUSLY) Today we’ll be discussing a topic that is very dear to me. I want us to talk about how we can reduce pests and diseases in our livestock.
264. YUSUF: I can see why you find this topic very important, you being a retired herdsman and all.
265. RIBADU: That’s not the only reason. Livestock are very important to our people. Many people make their living by rearing and selling livestock. For others, animals not only provide food, they also draw ploughs and transport farm products. Don’t forget also that their manure is an important source of fertilizer and fuel. So this is an important topic even for farmers who keep chickens and goats. When animals get sick or die, family income and well‐being can be adversely affected.
266. YUSUF: I stand corrected, Malam Ribadu. Of course even crop farmers in this region keep and breed animals too.
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267. RIBADU: Exactly. And what everyone is wondering is why there is a proliferation of pests and diseases afflicting our animals these days. Don’t get me wrong. In the olden days cows got sick too from time to time and we would treat them with herbs. Or if it got really serious, the government veterinary services will come to our camps and give inoculations with vaccines and provide other medicines and treatments. Nowadays though, we are seeing our animals getting sick with more diseases that we didn’t see or know in the past. Why is this, Dr. Yusuf, and what is happening?
268. YUSUF: Those are good questions, Malam. As you know, on this program we’ve talked about global warming and climate change and how this is affecting our environment and livelihoods. Once again we must say that climate change, among other factors, is responsible for the multiplication of pests and diseases that trouble our animals these days.
269. RIBADU: Please explain the connection, Doctor. 270. YUSUF: Well, I’ll try not to bore you with the big words. We have talked in
past programs how higher temperatures seem to encourage the proliferation of disease vectors (that is plants and animals that harbor or transmit disease organisms which may attack crops or livestock or even human beings). For example, mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, flies, mites, sand flies or even rodents such as rats are disease vectors. As you know, the mosquito is a vector for malaria in humans and the tse‐tse fly passes on trypanosomiasis or what we call sleeping sickness, which afflicts cattle. Very hot weather or protracted wet conditions due to heavy downpours and floods which are signs of climate change are very conducive to the development of parasites and pathogens that cause disease.
271. RIBADU: Okay, so you are saying that climate change is the reason we have so many diseases in our livestock?
272. YUSUF: It is not the only reason by any means. But many scientists believe that climate change and its effect on our environment whereby we experience extreme weather conditions can likely disturb the delicate balance of organisms and contribute to new epidemics of
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dangerous diseases in locations where they were previously unknown.
273. RIBADU: Ah. Now I understand. In our Sahel region, we didn’t use to have malaria during the hot dry season. I have noticed recently that when the air gets warmer, there are more mosquitoes and they bite more. Really.
274. YUSUF: Right. Don’t forget we have more intense rainfalls in the zone nowadays leaving puddles where mosquitoes like to breed.
275. RIBADU: Dr Yusuf, let’s talk about some of the diseases that are now common and afflicting our livestock …
276. YUSUF: Emm … okay, have you heard of “Foot and mouth disease”? 277. RIBADU: Unfortunately I have. One time there was an epidemic of it among
our cattle and many herders lost a good size of their stock. 278. YUSUF: That’s a pity. What were the symptoms you noticed? 279. RIBADU: The cows had serious fever, a bad case of drooling, and they
produced only a small amount of milk. Some of them become lame and unable to walk. Ah it was serious.
280. YUSUF: Those are symptoms of the foot and mouth disease alright. So what did you do about it?
281. RIBADU: We didn’t have any experience with this type of sickness so we sent for the veterinary doctor.
282. YUSUF: Good thinking. And he must have administered vaccines to protect the rest of the herd.
283. RIBADU: Oh yes. Two vaccinations, given one month apart. I was happy when the disease passed.
284. YUSUF: I’m sure you were. We are seeing the emergence of new organisms that cause disease and outbreaks of viruses that affect animals but are able to pass on to humans.
285. RIBADU: (WORRIED) Goodness. Like which ones? 286. YUSUF: Well remember the outbreak not so long ago of avian flu in our local
chicken? Thousands of infected and exposed chickens had to be destroyed causing huge financial losses to their breeders.
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287. RIBADU: I remember that event Dr. Yusuf. It raised the cost of Chicken and eggs. Wasn’t there concern though that the Avian Flu can be passed to humans?
288. YUSUF: Indeed. We should act very quickly once we notice any illness in just one of our animals to separate the sick one from the healthier ones to avoid a spread of the disease or an epidemic.
289. RIBADU: That’s good advice. We sometimes do that with our cattle. We share the healthy ones among relatives until an epidemic passes.
290. YUSUF: Another disease you notice affecting cattle, sheep and goats is Anthrax. Anthrax is caused by bacteria. Animals are usually infected with anthrax when they consume contaminated food or water. Some of the symptoms are fever, muscle tremors, respiratory distress, and convulsions.
291. RIBADU: Is there a vaccine for it? 292. YUSUF: None that I know of. Though it can be treated but I don’t think the
treatment is effective. Perhaps there are herbs or local treatment that I am unaware of.
293. RIBADU: What about sleeping sickness? 294. YUSUF: Oh, the medical term is trypanosomiasis. It is a parasitic disease that
affects a wide range of mammals, but is especially serious with cattle. It is transmitted by tse‐tse flies, and to a lesser extent, by other biting flies
295. RIBADU: I have had an animal with that disease before. When we migrate south wards with our cattle, there are areas we avoid because they have plenty of tse‐tse flies in the bushes there. Our animals fall sick after being bitten. I thought that sickness was over but it seems to be coming back now.
296. YUSUF: That is true. Many government programs that seriously worked to monitor and control the tse‐tse fly were discontinued giving rise to a growing number of cases.
297. RIBADU: Please Doctor, tell our listeners what to look out for. 298. YUSUF: Symptoms include high temperature, weakness and loss of appetite,
swollen glands, weight loss, abortion in pregnant cows and even infertility.
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299. RIBADU: Is it preventable or curable? 300. YUSUF: Prevention is through control of the tse‐tse fly. Certain medications
are also effective in reducing the symptoms, but must be used carefully according to directions.
301. RIBADU: Okay, thanks. But I have come in contact with several animals but the question that is always on my mind is why do some animals get sick but others stay healthy?
302. YUSUF: The answer is simple. Some animals have better resistance to disease than others. Most indigenous species have more resistance to diseases than the hybrids. So that’s something to bear in mind when making decisions about acquiring cattle for your herd. And there are ways that farmers can help animals build that resistance so they stay healthy. First, provide good quality feed. Animals that eat well can resist many infections. Second, always endeavor to give your animals clean water. Some people think just because they are animals, it doesn’t matter what quality water they drink. Dirty water spreads disease. The third thing to remember is cleanliness. Keep your animals in a dry, clean environment. As you know, a dirty surrounding will breed flies and other species that spread diseases that will make your animals sick.
303. RIBADU: In summary friends, if you want your animals to stay healthy, remember these three things: good quality feed, clean water, and clean housing. What of in a situation where a sick animal actually dies on the farm? What should be done?
304. YUSUF: When a sick animal dies, call a veterinarian, or an extension worker. Find out how to dispose of the animal. Usually they will tell you to bury the dead animal in a deep hole, or to burn it. If you can't get expert advice, burn or bury the animal quickly. Do not wait. After you burn or bury it, disinfect your hands and the immediate area to avoid further infection. Remember, when a sick animal dies, remove it from the area immediately.
305. RIBADU: You know people are always asking me one question. When is the best time to vaccinate an animal? Is it just after it is born? Or when it becomes an adult?
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306. YUSUF: In most cases animals should be vaccinated at about six months of age.
307. RIBADU: Why wait until six months of age? 308. YUSUF: Because the mother passes her own disease protection to the baby
in her first milk. This protection lasts for the first few months of the baby's life. After a few months, the natural immunities become weaker, and it is time to provide protection with a vaccine.
309. RIBADU: So you are saying that vaccination shouldn’t be done before six months.
310. YUSUF: Exactly! If you vaccinate a young animal while the natural immunity from the mother still exists, you will cancel the effect of the vaccine. So remember: vaccinate young animals at about six months old.
311. RIBADU: You know Yusuf, we have been talking about vaccination and all. But in this part of the country, there are some local methods that we use to prevent our animals from dying from diseases.
312. YUSUF: I know you have lots of knowledge and experience on animal care. Please share some with me.
313. RIBADU: You know, animals that are infected with ticks can be fed with plants containing a high level of salt, thus the ticks fall off. In fact, around here, before leaving the enclosure in the morning, women and children inspect the animal and collect ticks from its body by hand and throw these ticks into a fire burning near the entrance to the enclosure.
314. YUSUF: That is impressive. But how do local herdsmen or people that rear animals treat diseases?
315. RIBADU: Majority of the Fulani practice the use of herbs for various health problems of cattle. It involves cutting known herbs and boiling these for animals to drink.
316. YUSUF: Oh sure. What about “Taura” (Detarium Senegalense)? Do you know it?
317. RIBADU: Indeed I do. Some people call it Taurar Kurmii or Baafur. We boil this and give to cattle that have diarrhoea. There are herbs and extracts from plants such as Capsicum sp or the bark of neem (in Hausa it’s known as “dogon yaro”) that we add to drinking water
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and given to chicken and ducks. Likewise the bark of Baobab Adansonia digitata and pepper are used to cure cough in chickens. We rub shea butter oil on the animals’ skin to control external parasites such as ticks, lice and small red ants. You know that snake bite is a challenge for rearing livestock in our region. Farmers and herders use certain plants and roots, for example, Gubduu or Gwandan Daagii (Anonna Senegalensis) or sliced garlic to repel snakes.
318. YUSUF: Thank you Malam Ribadu. I’m not surprised that someone with your experience in herding and rearing cattle for many years will have solutions to animal health issues. When you notice the presence of pests or diseases especially in a case of sudden death of cattle and act fast, it can go a long way.
319. RIBADU: So Dr. Yusuf, what do you think of our own local methods of controlling diseases in animals?
320. YUSUF: I actually think local remedies and methods are brilliant. I believe that indigenous knowledge system should be incorporated in the teaching of veterinary medicine. So in addition to the local knowledge, also seek medical assistance.
321. RIBADU: Thank you so much for all your help Yusuf. 322. YUSUF: No problem at all Ribadu. 323. RIBADU: So friends we are almost coming to the end of today’s episode. But
now it’s time for today’s quiz. The question is this “Mention three ways to ensure that your animals stay healthy.” Again, “Mention three ways to ensure that your animals stay healthy.” Send your answers to this radio station and next episode; you just might be a lucky winner. I’m sure Dr Yusuf told us a lot to help us with that question.
324. YUSUF: Very true! 325. RIBADU: I really wish we can stay longer but we have to go. Remember to
Join us next week, same time, and same station and don’t forget to practice all you’ve learnt from this program. Until next episode, remember that it’s still In Kidiya Chanza ... and I remain your host, Ribadu. Bye.
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Acknowledgements This episode was written by Rebecca Ojedele and Alison Data Phido of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 24
TOPIC: ETHNOVETINARY
CAST RIBADU‐NARRATOR DANJUMA DORCAS SAMIRA BABA GANA TANKO BULUS AGRIC. EXPERT‐ DR.YUSUF 1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP 0.5 UNDER 2. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP 0.5 AND UNDER 3. NARRATOR (RIBADU): MY FRIENDS, ONCE AGAIN YOU ARE WELCOME TO ANOTHER
INTERESTING EPISODE OF IN KIDIYA CHANZA … A DRAMA PROGRAM ABOUT PEOPLE JUST LIKE US, MEN AND WOMEN DEALING WITH CHANGE IN A POSITIVE WAY. MY NAME IS RIBADU. I’M A FULANI HERDSMAN LIKE MY FATHER BEFORE ME. AS WE EXPERIENCE HOTTER TEMPERATURES THAN BEFORE DUE TO CLIMATE CHANGE, WE ARE ALSO SEEING MORE AND MORE INSECTS AND PESTS BOTHERING OUR LIVESTOCK AND INCREASED INCIDENCES OF DISEASES AFFLICTING THEM. I HAVE INVITED A FRIEND OF MINE AND AN AGRICULTURAL SCIENTIST, DR. YUSUF, TO DISCUSS A TOPIC THAT TOUCHES THE HEART OF EVERY HERDSMAN AND EVERY FARMER WHO KEEPS LIVESTOCK. IT HAS TO DO WITH TREATMENTS AVAILABLE TO SICK ANIMALS IN OUR CARE RIGHT WHERE WE LIVE. I’M SURE I HAVE YOUR ATTENTION NOW. GOOD. BUT FIRST LET US VISIT OUR FRIENDS IN KAKARAN JATAU, KAWORANA AND DOGON ALHERI. WHAT CAN THEY BE UP TO THIS TIME? WE’LL FIND OUT …
4. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO … SCENE 1: 5. SFX: SOUND OF FOOTSTEPS MOVING FAST
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6. SFX: VERY FAST KNOCK ON THE DOOR 7. DORCAS: (ON MIC) Yes? Who is it? 8. DANJUMA: (QUICKLY OFF MIC) Dorcas, open the door it’s me, Danjuma. 9. SFX: DOOR OPENS 10. DORCAS: (SURPRISED, ON MIC) Ah! Danjuma, is something wrong? How is mama? 11. DANJUMA: (ON MIC) Mama is ok. 12. DORCAS: So why such haste? As if there is a fire or something. 13. DANJUMA: (HESITATES FOR A SECOND) Well, I’m afraid I have bad news for you … 14. DORCAS: (FEARFULLY) I knew it. What happened, Danjuma? Please tell me. 15. DANJUMA: Please calm down, Dorcas .… it’s really not all that serious. 16. DORCAS: (CUTS IN) How can you say that, after what you just told me? Please just tell me, is someone dead? 17. DANJUMA: Haba, Dorcas! Stop panicking. Nobody died, you hear? 18. DORCAS: (CUTS IN AGAIN) Please, Danjuma, stop playing with me. 19. DANJUMA: It’s about Bulus … 20. DORCAS: Yes, what about him? 21. DANJUMA: I’m afraid he has been involved in an accident. 22. DORCAS: (PANICKING) Accident! Where? How? Where is he? 23. DANJUMA: Calm down, Dorcas! Though Bulus is seriously injured but
everything Is now under control because he was taken to the hospital immediately. Luckily he was close to the city.
24. DORCAS: WHAT? But how did this happen! What was he doing in the city? 25. DANJUMA: We were told he was talking a passenger to town when they had an accident on the way. 26. DORCAS: (CONFUSED) No wonder he didn’t show up at the farm. He was
supposed to have come and picked me up but when he didn’t show up, I got tired of waiting and found my way home … ah, Bulus!
27. DANJUMA: Please don’t worry, Dorcas. I am sure he will soon be alright. 28. DORCAS: Danjuma, take me to him quickly … hmnn … have you told Maman Bulus about the accident? 29. DANJUMA: Not yet. 30. DORCAS: Please don’t tell her, I beg you, because with the state of her health,
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hmnn, there is no telling what the news will do to her. Better not to let her know. Agreed?
31. DANJUMA: Of course I won’t do that. Let’s go … 32. DORCAS: (CALLS OUT URGENTLY) Baby, baby! Come here quickly. Look, I
have to go into the town with your uncle Danjuma. When you finish your homework, please help me make food for your sisters.
SCENE 2: 33. SFX: OUTDOOR SOUND OF SHEEP AND GOAT BLEATING, CHICKENS CLUCKING IN THE BACKGROUND 34. BABAGANA: (OFF MIC) Good day, Sahura. How are you? 35. SAHURA: (ON MIC) Thank you, Babagana. I am fine. 36. BABAGANA: What are you doing? 37. SAHURA: (COLDLY) I am giving the goats dusa (residue and chaff from processed maize) to eat … what does it look like I’m doing? 38. BABAGANA: That is good, but you should include some greens from the used
vegetables from the kitchen in their feed. It’s very good for them. 39. SFX: SOUND OF GOATS BLEATING IN THE BACKGROUND 40. SAHURA: (RUDELY) Mhmn?… Really? ‘Mr. I too know,’ did I ask for your advice regarding how to feed my animals? 41. BABAGANA: (SURPRISED) Sahura. Is there something I have done wrong? I don’t think I deserve such a rude response. Ah‐ah! 42. SAHURA: You call this rude ehnn … you just wait till I finish with you first. 43. BABAGANA: Look, Sahura, just calm down … you don’t have to take my advice if
you don’t want to ... I wish you would just tell me what I have done wrong.
44. SAHURA: Who wants your advice? You can take it elsewhere to those who always listen to you as if you are an oracle from Allah Himself! As for me, I don’t need it. Rubbish! Mts! (KLISSING HER TEETH IN DISGUST) Moreover, is it today that you notice my presence in this house?
45. BABAGANA: What do you mean by that comment? 46. SAHURA: Well! It always appears that you never notice me as a woman in this house. 47. BABAGANA: (SHOCKED) Sahura, are you out of your mind or have you forgotten
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that you’re someone else’s wife? 48. SAHURA: And so what? In fact, can you show me my‐so called husband? 49. BABAGANA: Look, Sahura … 50. SAHURA: (CUTS IN) I said, do you call this a marriage? Is this life? Being married to an old man who is always sick? 51. BABAGANA: (TRYING TO CUT HER OFF) Sahura, listen to me… 52. SAHURA: (CONTINUES TO LAMENT) Look at how I am being forced to live like
a widow or a single woman simply because I’m married to a sick old man. Is this fair? I’m not old like Baaba. I’m still young! Do you call this a real marriage? Answer me!
53. BABAGANA: I understand you, Sahura, but please try to be reasonable. What you are proposing is not right. As such, you should just forget about it.
54. SAHURA: How can you ask me to forget about it, when I need you with all my heart? 55. BABAGANA: Sahura let my make myself very clear. I am not interested in having any emotional relationship with you and I will never be interested… 56. SAHURA: So what do you want me to do with my feelings for you? 57. BABAGANA: You should just forget about them. Like I said earlier, I am sure your
husband will soon be well. Please let us pretend that we never talked about this. Thank you.
58. SAHURA: (ANGRILY) Mhn… now I can see that you’re treating me in such a way because of that Hindatu. That…that one! I don’t even know what you all see in her.
59. BABAGANA: That is not true, Sahura. And please you should stop calling her names, just because I chose to tell you the truth. 60. SAHURA: (SHOUTING ANGRILY) Please shut up. Do you think I don’t know what is going on between the two of you? 61. BABAGANA: Sahura, respect yourself. I don’t want to have a fight with you over this. 62. SAHURA: (HISSES) Mts! That is your problem, not mine. What about Hindatu? Who knows the truth about her and her husband? 63. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO …
SCENE 3:
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64. SFX: DOOR OPENS & CLOSES 65. SFX: SOUND OF FOOTSTEPS COMING INTO A ROOM 66. DORCAS: (OFF MIC) Bulus! Oh dear Bulus! Are you okay? 67. BULUS: (ON MIC) Dorcas calm down. I am alright. 68. DORCAS: (SOUNDING WORRIED, ON MIC) How can you claim to be alright,
when you are lying on a hospital bed, with your legs tied up in traction and your head and face all bandaged?
69. BULUS: (WEAKLY) It’s okay. Dorcas please don’t fall apart now please, I beg you. 70. DORCAS: (STILL WORRIED) Okay then, how are you feeling? 71. BULUS: (TRYING TO MAKE LIGHT OF THE ISSUE) I am fine, just a little sore
here and there. And now that you’re here with me, I am very sure everything is going to be alright. I am really happy to see you…
72. DORCAS: (STILL SOUNDING WORRIED) Please Bulus stop trying to make light of the situation. I can see that you are still in pain. 73. BULUS: You are right. But stop worrying I will be fine… By the way who told you about the accident? 74. DORCAS: Danjuma. 75. BULUS: Well everything is now water under the bridge… also I am very sorry for not being able to pick you up at the farm as promised. 76. DORCAS: (BRUSHING THAT ASIDE) Forget it… now tell me what is disturbing
you and don’t even try to pretend that all is well, because from the look of your face, I can see that all is not well.
77. BULUS: To tell you the truth, I am a little worried because I can’t feel much from my waist down. But everywhere else hurts. I hope I’ll be able to walk.
78. DORCAS: God forbid! Don’t say that! (PAUSE ONE BEAT) By the way what were you doing on the highway towards city? 79. BULUS: I agreed to take a passenger whom I’d hoped would pay me a big amount of money. 80. DORCAS: Was the passenger also hurt by the accident? 81. BULUS: From what they told me, the person is fine. I didn’t know because I
was unconscious after we were thrown off the motorbike and I didn’t come round until an hour or so ago in the hospital.
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82. DORCAS: Eyah! Sorry my husband, you have really suffered a lot… 83. BULUS: Yes I am very lucky to have escaped with my life. 84. DORCAS: Thank God you’re still alive. 85. BULUS: (SUDDENLY STARTS TO GROAN IN PAIN) 86. DORCAS: (PANICKING) Bulus! Are you alright? Should I call the nurse? 87. BULUS: (CONTINUES TO GROAN LOUDLY) 88. DORCAS: (CALLING OUT) Nurse! Nurse! I beg you to come and take a look at him. Please, because of God.. 89. SFX: SOUND OF FOOTSDTEPS WALKING FAST AND DORCAS STILL
CALLING FOR THE NURSE 90. SFX: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO …
SCENE 4:
91. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 92. TANKO: (EXCITEDLY CALLING SAHURA OFF MIC) Sahura, Sahura! Where are you? 93. SAHURA: (COMING ON MIC, SOUNDING ANNOYED) Tanko, why are you shouting my name as if we’re in the market…? 94. TANKO: (CUTS IN) It’s okay, just listen to what I have to say… 95. SAHURA: Allow me to finish first. By the way what took you so long? People have started asking me of your whereabouts. 96. TANKO: If you will just listen for a minute, that’s what I am trying to tell you.
I have some juicy information about that Babagana fellow..It’s worse than we thought.
97. SAHURA: (GLEEFULLY) You don’t mean it? 98. TANKO: Of course... But wait a minute. Why are people asking of me? 99. SAHURA: Because you haven’t been around and because the cows are sick. 100. TANKO: Did you give them the Rubutu (water gathered from washing
Qur’anic verses written on slate) that I collected from Mallam the other day?
101. SAHURA: Yes I did, but still the second cattle fell sick afterwards. 102. TANKO: That’s very unfortunate… poor you. 103. SAHURA: That’s what you will say. Let me tell you something, if I had known
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that you are going to be away for more than one week, I will never have agreed to take care of the cows…
104. TANKO: (STILL EXCITED) Okay forget about that, we will talk about it later… as I was saying before, I found out things about Babagana. 105. SAHURA: Wait! Wait! Let me get you water and something to eat from the kitchen to spice you up for this juicy tale. 106. TANKO: (LAUGHS) Sahura! How you love to gossip. Never mind that. 107. SAHURA: (EAGERLY) Alright then…am all ears. 108. TANKO: I was in Sabon Bature to see my friend Suleiman, but when I got there I was told that he has travelled to his hometown in Kanemi… 109. SAHURA: That must be very frustrating… so what did you do then? 110. TANKO: As I was about to leave the village, I got a lift from a trailer going that way and just went… 111. SAHURA: Where is the village located? 112. TANKO: It’s very far, in fact it is so far that you almost think you’re leaving the country, the town is very close to the border. 113. SAHURA: Mhmn… you really tried going to that far off place just to see a friend. 114. TANKO: That’s true and thank God for that because that is how I discovered that Babagana is from that area as well. 115. SAHURA: (IMPATIENTLY) And so what did you find out about this upstart, Babagaba? Is that his real name even? 116. TANKO: (LAUGHS) Yes. But at first, nobody wanted to tell me anything about
him… as soon as I brought up his name they always tried to change the subject.
117. SAHURA: Really? But why? 118. TANKO: Wait. I kept on pressing until eventually I found out stuff about him
so explosive that once Hindatu hears about it she will have no option than to send him packing…
119. SAHURA: (GLOATING HAPPILY) I’m just imagining how his face will look, when he discovers that we know all he has been hiding… please ride on with your story…
120. TANKO: Okay just sit down and hear the shocking details. 121. SAHURA: I’m sitting down Tanko. Please tell me the story…
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122. SFX: BRIDGE MUSIC FADE UP AND UNDER 123. RIBADU: WELL LISTENERS… FROM ALL INDICATIONS BABAGANA’S SECRET IS
NOW OUT. WHAT DID TANKO FIND OUT ABOUT HIM THAT IS SO EXPLOSIVE? ON THE OTHER HAND WHAT WILL BE THE CONSEQUENCE OF BULUS’ ACCIDENT TO HIS HEALTH AND FAMILY? YOU CAN ONLY GET TO KNOW THIS AND MANY MORE IF YOU CONTINUE TO TUNE IN TO THIS PROGRAM EVERY WEEK. OUR FRIEND DR. YUSUF IS WAITING TO HAVE THAT DISCUSSION I PROMISED, HOW TO SOURCE FOR TREATMENT LOCALLY FOR OUR LIVESTOCK. LETS FIRST RELAX WITH THIS MUSIC …
124. SFX: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER… 125. RIBADU: Welcome back my friends. That was music to sooth one’s soul. Ok we’re back to our discussion corner with Dr. Yusuf. 126. YUSUF: Ribadu, I am very sure that you don’t really need my inputs much in
oday’s topic because as a Herdsman naturally you will be an expert on this topic.
127. RIBADU: (CHUCKLES) If you say so. You know this is a topic that is very close to my heart. Dr. you are welcome to the program. 128. YUSUF: Thank you, Ribadu, glad to be here as usual. 129. RIBADU: Well Dr., today we will be discussing an issue that is very critical to
herdsmen and farmers alike. 130. YUSUF: And that issue is…? 131. RIBADU: Traditional approaches to preventing and treating diseases in
livestock and maintaining their health. Doctor, as you well know livestock health is a major problem facing farmers and herders in our region. Can you tell us why this is such a huge problem?
132. YUSUF: The main problem is that there are few Veterinarians in remote rural areas. Thus, many times by the time a Veterinarian is able to see a sick animal, it is too late. Also, many modern treatments are expensive and may be difficult for farmers to afford. In addition to this, due to cutbacks and reduction in government services farmers can no longer rely mainly on government assistance for their livestock health.
133. RIBADU: Doctor, many of us have seen the negative impact that pests and
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diseases can have on our livestock. We were talking about this just the other day, and you said we should be prepared for worse incidences of these with climate change. We often have to rely on our traditional knowledge when treating animals.
134. YUSUF: (TEASINGLY) well you see what I mean when I said you’ve turned into an expert earlier (both laugh) please continue Ribadu…I actually hope to learn some things from you today
135. RIBADU: Ok Doctor. I was saying that in order to try to prevent and treat diseases in our animals, we have to resort to some of our traditional knowledge, things we saw our parents use, for example, herbs, roots, barks of some trees, some oils and seed butter like shea butter or even pepper.
136. YUSUF: Pepper…Interesting. You raised a very interesting point when you mentioned using indigenous knowledge to prevent and treat diseases and minimize the effects of pests. These treatments have been used for hundreds of years perhaps and have been known to work for treating diseases that we are familiar with.
137. RIBADU: Exactly. We know certain herbs and portions which work quite well for diseases we’ve been seeing and treating all our lives. But as we discussed the other day, new pests and diseases are surfacing these days of climate change for which most of us are beginning to look to modern veterinary medicine as solution.
138. YUSUF: Each type of treatment has its place. Modern medicine has to be prescribed by someone who knows how it is to be given and for what: a veterinary doctor, or at least a Paravet. People shouldn’t just recommend drugs without proper diagnosis and advice on appropriate dosage. On the other hand, most herbs and other traditional treatments have been used repeatedly for years right in our communities so farmers have more knowledge and confidence on how to use them.
139. RIBADU: Another thing I notice is that our traditional methods and treatments seem to work with the local breeds of livestock. The
foreign breeds and hybrids require vaccination, and other
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sophisticated medicines like antibiotics and so forth, that’s my opinion.
140. YUSUF: All breeds of animals, including local breeds, can benefit from a check up and vaccinations especially if there is a disease outbreak or
if cattle for example will be migrating through an c area where some diseases are always present. And raising local breeds that are used to our local environment make better sense because you see, they will not be as susceptible to local diseases and pests as the imported breeds. But there is no harm in using traditional treatments that have been to known to work for some diseases for example, diarrhea in cattle and chickens, cough in goats and so on. That is ethno‐veterinary medicine which plays an important role in livestock breeding in our region
141. RIBADU: Thank you Doctor, for bringing us back to our topic. Let us talk about some of the traditional methods of treating diseases, shall we?
142. YUSUF: Yes of course. There is a very common disease that spreads very easily among cattle that affects the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing. It really affects their body condition and ability to produce milk. You’ve come across it right? We in Veterinary medicine call it Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP).
143. RIBADU: We think it’s pneumonia caused by very cold weather so we burn fires to heat up the environment during cold nights which seems to help the affected animal’s breathing.
144. YUSUF: Ah, Mallam, if you must light fires, be careful so you don’t sleep and turn yourself and your livestock to suya (barbecued brochettes of beef sold on the streets)… (BOTH LAUGH)
145. RIBADU: (LAUGHS) Doctor, you’re very funny. 146. YUSUF: No. I’m serious. I’d suggest hygiene as an important way of
Preventing this disease. It is important to keep the environment where the animals stay clean. Don’t say because they’re animals, I’ll just leave them in a filthy environment, this causes many diseases to be spread. Also, if you notice that one animal is sick, it is important to separate it from the others immediately, so that the
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disease doesn’t spread. Traditional treatments using herbs have been shown by research to help prevent diseases or heal. Many herdsmen use them. Can you give me an example of how you would use herbs?
147. RIBADU: Okay. In my travels, I have seen herbs used in many ways. Usually, it involves cutting herbs in form of leaves and boiling them for sick animals to drink. Any illness in animals from diarrhea, constipation, flu and skin infections to malaria and ticks infestation are treated locally with herbs, roots, barks and traditional ointments. Traditional healers recommend boiling “Duma Rafi” (Ipomoea Isarifolia or Ipomoea repens) for our cattle to cure malaria. The bark of “Dogonyaro” (Neem) tree is usually added to drinking water in order to treat parasites in chicks. Chillie Pepper “Bàrkòònóó” (Capiscum sp.) extracts are often added to water for the same purpose. When I was bothered by repeated infestation of ticks among my cattle once, the traditional healer recommended Shea oil to rub on the animal and it got rid of them.
148. YUSUF: There you are, Ribadu. I have read research that supports many of these things you’re saying. Many of our local herbs are medicinal and can treat many things in humans and animals. But again it is very important to know what herbs you’re giving your animals. If you are unsure ask advice from a traditional healer of good repute, a Paravet or an Agric Officer at your LG office. Don’t just give them anything, because like all medicines herbs contain chemical properties that may have harmful side effects if wrongly given. Listen, Ribadu, the example you gave about using shea oil to kill parasites such as ticks or lice, is ingenious and effective because it prevents the pests from being able to breathe or fly once coated in oil. It’s actually a scientific fact.
149. RIBADU: (LAUGHS) Ah Doctor, so our ancestors knew science!!! 150. YUSUF: (LAUGHS) Ah yes Ribadu. But it is not every traditional practice that
is beneficial to livestock. Some don’t work and some are quite frankly, very harmful. Don’t take advice regarding the health of your
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animals from your neighbor who is always losing one animal or another, or whose livestock look sickly.
151. RIBADU: You’re right, doctor. It is always better to seek advice from the experts when unsure about any of these traditional livestock treatment practices. Some farmers and herdsmen have had so much experience as well as training in how to diagnose ailments of some livestock including cattle, goats and chickens and provide treatment or advice.
152. YUSUF: Yes, so Ribadu, to summarize what we discussed today, how can some of the most common livestock disease and other problems be treated?
153. RIBADU: And we came to the conclusion that many of the diseases and other problems caused by pests can be treated by local people using a small range of simple equipment and drugs. Local people can be trained to apply these methods to treat sick animals.
154. YUSUF: Exactly, and this is good because it is faster, more convenient and more economical for each livestock owner than calling a veterinarian in from a big city. In addition to that, farmers have a rich store of knowledge on herbal medicine that have been found to be effective over the years. Much of this valuable “Ethno veterinary” knowledge is being lost or is being replaced by modern techniques and younger people often look down on it as a form of witchcraft.
155. RIBADU: As with many things in our tradition, we will lose them permanently after us older ones pass away unless we make concerted efforts to pass this knowledge on to our children and young people generally. Perhaps you educated people could even collate these cures and write them up for future generations
156. YUSUF: That’s an excellent idea, Ribadu. 157. RIBADU: Well Doctor. We have run out of time on this discussion today. Thank you for coming and sharing your knowledge with us... 158. YUSUF: (LAUGHS) Thank you for inviting me, Ribadu. But today it is you who
were the expert. Thank you for sharing your own experiences with me. I too learned from you today…
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159. RIBADU: (LAUGHS) Ah doctor I’m glad. Okay friends, It’s time for today’s quiz and the question is “ SMS a common traditional treatment for malaria in cattle.” Send your answers by SMS to this number…
160. YUSUF: It will be easy to win this one.. 161. RIBADU: Yes I want to give away some beautiful gifts but it’s first come first
served so don’t delay. Listeners it’s really time to go. Remember the program is “In Kidiya Chanza”. Join us next week for another interesting episode same time, same station bye.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Umma Mohammed Rakana and Onajite Phido of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). Additional scripting and editing was provided by Alison Data Phido of ARDA. This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 25
TOPIC: SOYBEAN CULTIVATION.
Characters Narrator ‐ Ribadu Rakiya Bulus Saude Laila Hindatu Tanko Sambo Agric expert (Hajia Mariam)
326. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER … 327. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5
AND UNDER ... 328. NARRATOR (RIBADU): WELCOME, FRIENDS, TO TODAY’S SEGMENT OF IN KIDIYA
CHANZA … A DRAMA PROGRAM ABOUT PEOPLE JUST LIKE US, MEN AND WOMEN DEALING WITH CHANGE IN A POSITIVE WAY. MY NAME IS RIBADU AND I’M A FULANI HERDSMAN LIKE MY FATHER BEFORE ME. A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO, WE HAD HAJIA MARIAM IN THE STUDIO AND SHE TOLD US A LOT ABOUT ADDING VALUE TO WHAT WE DO AS AGRICULTURISTS. SHE MENTIONED SOME CROPS THAT OUR FARMERS CAN GROW. THESE CROPS ARE NOT JUST ECONOMICALLY REWARDING, THEY ARE ALSO VERY GOOD FOR THE LAND ON WHICH THEY ARE CULTIVATED. ONE OF THESE CROPS IS SOYBEAN (WAKE‐SOYA), AND TODAY, HAJIA MARIAM WILL BE WITH US ONCE AGAIN TO TELL US MORE ABOUT THIS VERY IMPORTANT CROP, HOW WE CAN CULTIVATE IT, AND THE ADVANTAGES OF GROWING SUCH A CROP. HOWEVER, BEFORE WE GO INTO THIS SEGMENT OF THE PROGRAM, LET’S GO AND FIND OUT WHAT HAS BEEN HAPPENING WITH OUR FRIENDS IN KAWORANA, DOGON ALHERI, AND KAKARAN JATAU AND HOW THEY ARE ADAPTING THEIR DANCE STEPS TO FALL IN LINE WITH THE CHANGING DRUM BEAT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ….
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329. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ... SCENE 1:
330. SFX: AMBIENCE OF A HOSPITAL. DISTANT SOUND OF AMBULANCE SIREN.
331. RAKIYA: Oh, so you are finally awake! 332. BULUS: How did you know? You haven’t seen me since the accident. 333. RAKIYA: Don’t be such a nag, Bulus. I have been nursing my own injuries. 334. BULUS: Rakiya, all you had were bruises. I am the one who was unconscious
for days. 335. RAKIYA: Sorry. I have never been Involved in an accident before, so it’s still a
shock to me. And you know my body also pained me for days. God, I thought I was going to die.
336. BULUS: Well, thank God nobody died. But Rakiya, do you know I still can’t feel anything from my waist down? My legs feel dead.
337. RAKIYA: (SHOCKED) Do you know what that means, Bulus? 338. BULUS: What? 339. RAKIYA: It means you won’t be able to walk again. If your legs feel dead,
then they are dead. 340. BULUS: Really? How can you possibly know that, Rakiya? You are just seeing
me for the first time since the accident happened. Or is that your prayer for me?
341. RAKIYA: No oh, Bulus. How will I wish you such evil? 342. BULUS: Then you shouldn’t be saying it. 343. RAKIYA: I am not the one saying it, Bulus. It’s what people are saying in
Kaworana. 344. BULUS: They are saying that? How can people be so wicked? Are they happy
that I am in this situation? 345. RAKIYA: I was very surprised when I heard that you won’t be able to walk
again. Honestly, I felt really bad. 346. BULUS: (HEATED) Well, they should keep quiet because it’s not true. The
doctors have been coming to see me every day and it is not final that I won’t be able to walk again.
347. RAKIYA: Well, you are in my prayers.
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348. BULUS: Thank you, and may God punish all those evil people that are wishing me bad luck.
349. RAKIYA: Insha allah. Look, Bulus, I have to be on my way. 350. BULUS: So quick? You only just got here. Ok. But you’ll bring something
special for me tomorrow right? 351. RAKIYA: Tomorrow? What’s happening tomorrow? 352. BULUS: Are you not coming here to see me tomorrow? 353. RAKIYA: Oh that? I’m not sure. You know I’m only just recovering myself. 354. BULUS: (SURPRISED) Why are you sounding like that? Don’t you care
anymore? 355. RAKIYA: Not that I don’t care. I do! I care for you as a human being. 356. BULUS: Just as a human being? What happened to us being lovers? 357. RAKIYA: Lovers? Do you still think about that? You are dead from the waist
down. You shouldn’t even be thinking about such things now. 358. BULUS: Rakiya. What has come over you? How can you say a thing like that?
I’ll be out of this hospital in no time and I’ll be back to being the Bulus that you know. Fully active Bulus.
359. RAKIYA: Bulus, I am happy that you are optimistic. It will help you recover on time. But you know, the truth is that all this is not going to be easy. For now, you are an invalid who may never walk again.
360. BULUS: Rakiya, so you’ve given up on me? I suppose that means you can’t marry me anymore.
361. RAKIYA: Marry? You? So you think I’m looking for a husband that I will have to push around on a wheel chair? And how can we have the son you are looking for? Bulus please, wake up and stop dreaming.
362. BULUS: Rakiya, to think that I had this accident while taking you to the city. I have lost everything because of you and you are abandoning me because I got hurt. Just because of a slight trouble, your love has suddenly disappeared.
363. RAKIYA: Slight trouble? You call this slight? This one is not a slight trouble at all‐o. This is very big and I don’t have a back strong enough to carry it. I won’t lie, I beg.
364. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2
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365. SFX: KNOCK ON THE DOOR 366. SAUDE: The door is open. Come in. 367. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 368. SAUDE: (EXCLAIMS) Laila. Welcome. It’s so good to see you. How is your
husband? How is everyone in Dogon Jimeta? 369. LAILA: Slow down, Saude. I’m fine and everyone is fine. It’s been so long.
Look at you. 370. SAUDE: I’m so happy to see you, Laila. You know since you moved to Dogon
Jimeta, I’ve not had any friend around here. It’s been so lonely. 371. LAILA: I understand, Saude. I missed you too and I would have loved to
come and see you before now, but the sand dunes make the walk very difficult and tiring.
372. SAUDE: Thank you for coming. Please sit down and tell me everything that has been happening to you.
373. LAILA: You first. Are you alright? You don’t look too good to me, Saude. This is not how you were when I last saw you. You have lost a lot of weight.
374. SAUDE: How won’t I lose weight, Laila? I didn’t realize that farming is such a hard task until now. Especially when you have to do it all alone.
375. LAILA: Alone? How come you are doing it alone? What happened to Sambo, your husband? I know he is around because I see him frequently in Dogon Jimeta.
376. SAUDE: Sambo? Sambo is no longer working on the farm with me oh. I don’t know what has happened to him. Laila, he has changed so much I don’t know what I have done.
377. LAILA: Saude, I don’t think you have done anything. I think Dikko has! 378. SAUDE: What do you mean? 379. LAILA: Sambo, your husband is the talk of all Daogon Jimeta. Everybody
wonders what he is doing with Dikko. Dikko of all people. 380. SAUDE: Dikko? 381. LAILA: Of course, Dikko! Don’t tell me you don’t know. Every single day
one would see Sambo either helping to build huts, fences, or even weeding Dikko’s farm in Dogon Jimeta.
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382. SAUDE: Oh my God! What is happening to my husband? Anytime I ask him where he is coming from, he just tells me what he likes and that is it. I am left to go to the farm alone.
383. LAILA: A lot of people are even wondering if he doesn’t have a farm of his own anymore since he is seen in Dikko’s compound or farm every day.
384. SAUDE: Laila, I don’t know the meaning of the sudden friendship between my husband and Dikko, but I am sure that there is something more than meets the eye. I know my husband and I know he is not the type to become someone’s servant overnight. Something must be wrong somewhere.
385. LAILA: I don’t understand, Saude. If you are sure he is not like that, then why is he doing it?
386. SAUDE: Laila, I have tried to find out why he is suddenly friends with Dikko but he won’t tell me anything. And all this started after they both came back from their last herding tour just after the sand storms.
387. LAILA: I know that he was not very close to Dikko when we were all here. So I was surprised when they suddenly became friends. But I assumed they must have had time to bond when they were working together.
388. SAUDE: Sambo would never bond with Dikko. He knows Dikko is a bad man. 389. LAILA: Well you must find out what is wrong. I know Sambo to be a hard‐
working man who loves his family. I don’t understand this new Sambo who abandons his own farm and family.
390. SAUDE: Laila, I don’t understand either. When he came back, he was so full of ideas. He wanted to grow millet and groundnut. In fact, when he returned and saw many villagers had relocated to Dogon Alheri, he said we aren’t moving but he would rather fight back the dunes by planting trees.
391. LAILA: Really? 392. SAUDE: I wish you had seen him those first few days. He was so
enthusiastic. So full of life. He started planting the trees and nurturing them.
393. LAILA: Then what happened?
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394. SAUDE: Dikko happened. He showed up one day and that was when trouble started. All of a sudden, Sambo started changing. He started neglecting his work on the farm, even his duties to his family.
395. LAILA: Didn’t you complain? 396. SAUDE: Of course I did. Every night he’ll promise me that he’ll work our
farm. But by the time Dikko shows up the next morning, his plans to go to his own farm will be shelved again so he can go and do something for Dikko.
397. LAILA: This is serious. So that’s why you started to go the farm by yourself? 398. SAUDE: Of course. I can’t just sit and watch my children die from starvation.
I’m tired of waiting for him to change. I have to do what I can by myself.
399. LAILA: But what can be the cause? Maybe Sambo owes Dikko money and Dikko wants Sambo to work for him as payback?
400. SAUDE: No, that can’t be it. If money is involved at all, then it must be Dikko who owes Sambo money and not the other way round.
401. LAILA: I don’t get the logic of that, 402. SAUDE: Let me explain, Laila. One day, Dikko came and told us that one of
the cows he’s looking after got sick and died, and he asked to buy one of our cows to replace it before the owner will find out and complain to his father. That cow was our best reproducing and milking cow!
403. LAILA: And you gave him the cow? 404. SAUDE: Sambo gave it to him without even telling me about it. Dikko has
not paid anything for it till today. 405. LAILA: I am really surprised about this. Well, I think Dikko is just taking
advantage of the fact that Sambo is gentle and kind. 406. SAUDE: That is not it. Dikko is using juju for my husband. 407. LAILA: Do you believe in such things? 408. SAUDE: How else will you explain all this? It’s either juju or there is a secret
they are both hiding. Maybe something happened and Dikko is blackmailing Dikko for it. I don’t know how else to explain it.
409. LAILA: Whatever it is though, I hope it stops soon.
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410. SAUDE: Oh, I am going to find out what it is and put a stop to it. I am not going to die from overwork. I need my husband back.
411. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 412. SFX: OUTDOORS 413. HINDATU: Tanko, good morning. Welcome back. 414. TANKO: Thank you, Hindatu. 415. HINDATU: But why didn’t you tell anybody you were travelling? We were
worried. 416. TANKO: I’m so sorry, Hindatu. I didn’t know I’ll be gone for so long. 417. HINDATU: So where did you go? 418. TANKO: I quickly went to Sabo Bature for some important matters. 419. HINDATU: Well, thank God you are back. The animals are sick and they need to
be attended to by a vet or a paravet. I have sent for one but I haven’t seen him.
420. TANKO: No problem. I’ll take care of that now that I am back. 421. HINDATU: Good, because my hands are already full. You know this is harvest
period. My only regret now is that I didn’t plant soya. The price is so high in the market now. If only I’d listened to Babagana when he first advised me to plant them, now we’ll also be making good money.
422. TANKO: Babagana, right? He had already foreseen this? 423. HINDATU: Yes oh. That guy is a blessing, Tanko. He has so much knowledge. I
wonder where he got it all from. 424. TANKO: Well, I can tell you because I have learnt everything about him.
That’s why I sent for you in the first place, Hindatu. 425. HINDATU: What are you talking about? 426. TANKO: You know, I’ve been thinking and I realized that I employed a man I
know nothing about. I realized that I was putting the entire family in jeopardy by not knowing anything. Not even where he is from.
427. HINDATU: I don’t understand. You told me that he was referred to you by your friend Suleiman. Are you saying that you didn’t verify all the information he gave you before now?
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428. TANKO: That was my mistake. I should have verified. And I have corrected that mistake. Hindatu, you will not believe what I found out.
429. HINDATU: What? Did your friend Suleiman deny knowing him? 430. TANKO: Let me tell you the story. I went to Sabo Bature to see Suleiman,
only to find out that he has relocated to Kanem, his home town. 431. HINDATU: (IMPATIENTLY) So did you go to Kanem? Where is Kanem by the
way? 432. TANKO: Kanem is far. Very far. Hindatu, you can’t know the place. That’s
why I took longer than I expected. And when I got to Kanem, I found out the unthinkable.
433. HINDATU: Tanko, stop the drama and tell me what it is. 434. TANKO: Babagana is actually from Kanem, and according to the people of
Kanem, he is an evil person. In fact he is cursed. 435. HINDATU: (MOCKINGLY) Really, Tanko! And why would an entire village
believe that a person is cursed? 436. TANKO: Listen, Babagana has been married three times, and all the three
wives are dead. Mysterious deaths, I must tell you. 437. HINDATU: What killed them? 438. TANKO: (RELISHING THE TALE AND COUNTING OFF HIS FINGERS) The first
wife died from snake bite whilst having her bath on their wedding day. A few years later, he married another woman. This one died from meningitis after just a few months of marriage. Okay, people said sorry to him again. Then he got married a third time. Do you know what happened? You’ve guessed it. She died giving birth to their daughter!
439. HINDATU: And according to your findings, he killed all three of them? 440. TANKO: What else? It is the curse that has been placed on his head that
killed those women. I even found out that he is a rich land owner as you are looking at him here. It was after his third wife died that he left the village. No one has seen him since then. In fact, when you call his name in Kanem, people spit and say may Allah protect us.
441. HINDATU: So it’s not like he was taken to court for murder. Of the three dead wives, I mean.
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442. TANKO: No oh. Court? This is not a court matter. He didn’t kill them with his hands. It’s just the bad luck that he has. Nobody in Kanem will associate with him.
443. HINDATU: (SIGHS AND CHUCKLES) Well, from what you’ve said, he is not a criminal. He is just an innocent man that has suffered from hard luck and it can happen to anybody.
444. TANKO: Hindatu, this type of bad luck is different. It is evil. This kind of person should not remain in this family.
445. HINDATU: What will happen if we let him stay? 446. TANKO: Then he will bring his bad luck into the family. We must send him
away. 447. HINDATU: (THOUGHTFULLY) I don’t think so, Tanko. Since Babagana came, our
farm has been doing well. His help and knowledge have been invaluable, and instead of bad luck, we are having wonderful luck on all sides and even Alhaji is recovering. Tanko, I don’t see any problem.
448. TANKO: (INCREDULOUS) Ehn, you don’t see a problem after all I’ve told you. I hope you haven’t been witched.
449. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 4 450. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES 451. SAMBO: (SIGHS TIREDLY) Oh, I am so tired. What’s for dinner? 452. SAUDE: Where are you coming from, Sambo? 453. SAMBO: Saude, I’m really sorry I didn’t tell you before leaving this morning. I
had to go to Dogon Jimeta to help Dikko on his farm. 454. SAUDE: (SARCASTICALLY) Oh really? 455. SAMBO: I’m so tired and hungry! We hardly took any break today. 456. SAUDE: And while you were slaving away on Dikko’s farm, who did you
leave in charge of your own farm? 457. SAMBO: Saude, I know I’ve been neglecting that farm lately. Don’t worry. I
will go there tomorrow and do some weeding. 458. SAUDE: You will need to do more than that, Sambo. Your trees that you
were so passionate about are all but dead, Sambo. Nobody to tend and water them the way only you know how. Weeds have almost
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taken over our millet. I’ve been having to go to the farm every day, else we’ll have no harvest.
459. SAMBO: Saude, I’m really sorry. I’m sure I’ll go to the farm tomorrow and assess the damage. I’m sure something can still be done.
460. SAUDE: (SCATHINGLY) If you don’t end up at Dikko’s. (PAUSE) Sambo, what is going on between you and Dikko?
461. SAMBO: What do you mean? There is nothing going on between us. I am just helping out a friend.
462. SAUDE: And when did he become your friend? Dikko is nobody’s friend and you know that. Sambo, I am your wife. Tell me the truth.
463. SAMBO: Saude, there is nothing to tell. I am just helping him out. Moreover, I already said I will go to the farm tomorrow. I won’t be at Dikko’s farm tomorrow.
464. SAUDE: What did you do, Sambo? 465. SAMBO: What did I do? How? 466. SAUDE: What are you hiding? What is Dikko covering up for you? 467. SAMBO: (SURPRISED) What do you mean, Saude? I am not hiding anything. 468. SAUDE: No more games, Sambo. Tell me the truth. I know there is
something. 469. SAMBO: (SIGHS) Saude are you sure you can forgive me? 470. SAUDE: I am your wife. Of course I can forgive you. What did you do? 471. SAMBO: (BLURTS OUT) I killed someone. 472. SAUDE: What? Who? 473. SAMBO: It was a mistake. When we were coming back from the migration, I
shot at something I thought was a wild beast only to later discover that it was a young boy. Dikko advised that we bury the corpse and not tell anybody.
474. SAUDE: And that is what he is using against you now? I guessed as much. That man is evil and cannot be trusted.
475. SAMBO: Saude, I have tried everything I can. I just don’t know what to do. 476. SAUDE: You have to go and confess to the Imam. 477. SAMBO: What? The police have come from the boy’s village to investigate
his death and I lied. If I confess now, they may put me in jail. It may be life imprisonment.
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478. SAUDE: Sambo, you have to tell the truth. You are already serving a jail sentence passed on you by Dikko. Only the truth will set you free.
479. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO 480. RIBADU: My friends. Did you hear that? Kai! This is becoming interesting or
should I say we are getting to the climax of this story? Now that Sambo has told his wife his little secret, what will she do? What will he do? What future awaits them? And let’s not forget Babagana. Is Tanko right? Does he pose a danger to the Maikano family? What about Hindatu’s position that there is no harm? Who is right? I’m sure you have your own opinion and it may even be different from those of your friends and family. That’s life. We may agree or disagree but we can still live peacefully together. I promise there’s more drama next time. So tune in next week. (CLEARS THROAT) It’s now time for our chat with Hajia Mariam. But before we do that, let’s listen to this song. I’m sure you’ll like it.
481. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER ... 482. RIBADU: You are welcome back. It’s still In Kidiya Chanza … and in the studio
with me is Hajia Mariam, our agric expert. Welcome, Hajia. 483. MARIAM: Thank you, Ribadu. 484. RIBADU: A couple of weeks back, you mentioned something that you said will
add value to our farming livelihoods. We feel it’s something that should really be revisited so that our listeners can have an in‐depth knowledge of it. In fact, since then many listeners have written to us to ask for more information on the subject.
485. MARIAM: What are we talking about here? 486. RIBADU: Wake‐Soya. You mentioned how important soybeans are. I recall
you saying that soybeans are good for the soil and also do not hurt the farmer’s pockets.
487. MARIAM: (CHUCKLES) Sure, Ribadu. I will be glad to answer any questions you may have on the subject.
488. RIBADU: Okay. Please, start us by telling us what soya is exactly. 489. MARIAM: Hmm ... Let’s see. Soya is a leguminous plant. 490. RIBADU: And by leguminous, you mean?
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491. MARIAM: I mean it is a legume. Plants that belong to the legume family have pods in which beans grow. Some examples of leguminous plants are groundnuts or peanuts, cowpea and soya beans.
492. RIBADU: So what makes them special? Why is it important for farmers to grow these legumes? Especially soya?
493. MARIAM: The reason is quite simple. Cultivating soya and other legumes is a sure way to increase soil fertility. When they are planted, they take up nitrogen from the air and deposit it into the soil. Therefore, after you harvest your soya, the land is richer in nitrogen and this can help improve the yields of the next crop with adequate care.
494. RIBADU: That’s very valuable. That’s nice. 495. MARIAM: It’s not a matter of being nice. It’s just in their nature to function
that way. This is actually special because other crops take nitrogen from the soil for them to grow well, but soya puts some nitrogen back into the soil. Do you know that planting soya in rotation with your cereal crops helps to control striga (wuta‐wuta in Hausa) (that witch weed that’s giving many farmers a head ache) on such fields?
496. RIBADU: Apart from the useful functions they perform to the soil, I am sure that there are other benefits of legumes.
497. MARIAM: The crop itself is food. Soya beans can be used to fortify other high carbohydrate food to increase the protein content of the food. The seed can be sold to earn cash, and the pods in which they grow can serve as very nutritious animal feed or fuel for making cooking fire.
498. RIBADU: Ehn? You don’t mean it! Talking about nutrition, I heard that soya beans are very rich in nutrients.
499. MARIAM: Yes, that’s very true. Soya contains minerals, vitamins, protein and carbohydrate. It is a good source of fat and can be pressed for edible oil that is cholesterol‐free. It is even a good replacement for milk (soya‐milk) and meat because it is very rich in vitamins and minerals.
500. RIBADU: Wow. Only soya beans? Many farmers want to grow this crop. Please tell us how to go about it. I’m really interested. Even an old man like me can still wield a hoe you know … perhaps I’ll go back and grow some soya.
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501. MARIAM: Of course. Why not if your back will allow you to bend. (BOTH LAUGHING)
502. RIBADU: You don’t know me. After all, I can use animal traction to plough, harrow and transport myself and my implements to the farm, don’t worry. Something I learned on this program.
503. MARIAM: Very good, Mallam. You can certainly do that. Okay. Let’s begin with the choice of seeds. We must ensure to source good quality seed from a trusted source. The IITA and other agric departments are good places to enquire about good quality, early maturing or short duration seed varieties, especially if you farm in dryer locations. Base your decision of seed choice on yield potential, drought tolerance and resistance to pests and diseases. Also the time it takes to mature. Although late maturing varieties may give a higher yield, it is risky for you to grow that variety if you live in an area like some of us that is very dry and prone to low rainfall because of possible quick cessation of the rainy season or late‐season drought. Go for earlier maturing varieties. Don’t buy seed from the open market‐o.
504. RIBADU: Very well. We must purchase the seeds from trusted sources, seeds that suit our region. What then?
505. MIRIAM: Clear and prepare the land to make your seed bed or ridges. Soya requires well‐prepared land to germinate well and this will help reduce weed infestation also. You can plant the seeds on either a flat seedbed or on ridges. Ensure to sort the seeds and select ones without blemish or insect holes. Good size and color matter.
506. RIBADU: Hajiya Mariam, when exactly should we plant soya, or can we plant it at any time of the year?
507. MIRIAM: Good question, Mallam Ribadu. My advice based on experience is to plant as soon as the rainy season is established. Don’t be tempted into planting too early. Some people who plant as soon as they see the first rains are sometimes disappointed when there is a dry spell soon after the rains, and their already germinated plants wilt and die.
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508. RIBADU: You are telling me. It happened to folks in Kakaran Jatau and they had to replant. Kallamu who neither had money nor left over seeds couldn’t replant. Sad story.
509. MIRIAM: Exactly. However, planting late in the season is also risky. Again, there might be insufficient moisture if the rains have to stop early.
510. RIBADU: So when is the best time to plant? 511. MIRIAM: Depending on where we are in the northern region, I will say mid‐
June to mid‐July. However, these days of climate change with the weather behaving outside of the usual norm, my rule of thumb is to wait till the rains are well‐established and use an early maturing seed variety.
512. RIBADU: Thank you for that. So we are now going to plant, what’s the next step?
513. MIRIAM: Let’s see. It is necessary to treat the seeds with fungicides to avoid soil‐borne diseases and ensure good germination. Ask your agric office for recommendations on which fungicides to use. Please don’t just go and buy these chemicals and apply them without learning how to use them correctly. So actually ask an agric officer for advice on this aspect. But soil‐borne fungal diseases are common and you don’t want your crop infected.
514. RIBADU: God forbid it. 515. MIRIAM: You may sow soya by hand or with a planter, at the rate of 3 to 4
seeds per hole. Don’t plant it too deep because you want the seedlings to emerge quickly. Space your holes at 50 cm between rows and 5 cm within rows. Again, ask other experienced farmers or an agric officer for the right spacing information. You may select one of your members in your farmers’ organization to go and get the information for the rest of you, if you need to travel out of your community to see an agric officer.
516. RIBADU: Is it advisable to apply fertilizer on a growing legume? 517. MARIAM: Well, under normal conditions, soya being a legume should provide
the nitrogen it requires. However, phosphorous is often deficient in most soils, so ensure you apply phosphorous fertilizer. If the soil is really poor, a small amount of fertilizer that contains nitrogen and
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potassium should be applied during harrowing and leveling when you are preparing the land. Once again, seek expert advice on the quantity needed.
518. RIBADU: Okay. 519. MARIAM: And let’s not forget weed control. It is important to ensure that
weeds are not allowed to overtake the growing crops. You’ll need to weed at least twice, the first one just 2 weeks after planting, and the second at 5 to 6 weeks, depending on how you prepare your land. If you use herbicide to spray your farm at the time of planting, first weeding may be due in 3‐4 weeks after planting. Delaying hoe weeding can significantly reduce your yield, so this is very important. Again, seek advice on how to apply herbicides safely.
520. RIBADU: What about pests and diseases? Should we worry? 521. MIRIAM: Yes‐o. Insects and bugs such as aphids, beetles and whiteflies are
the most common problem and particularly when soyabean begins to flower, it is often attacked by a pod‐sucking bug. But these can be controlled with a single spray of the appropriate pesticide. Some of the most common diseases that cause low yields are caused by bacteria, fungus and viruses. You will see signs of these in the appearance and colour of the leaves. Diseases can affect the root or stem at any stage and cause wilting, root rot, stunting or total destruction. Seed dressing before planting may avoid this.
522. RIBADU: But what can farmers do about these problems, Hajiya Miriam? 523. MIRIAM: In addition to dressing their seeds, they have to ensure to plant
quality, disease‐free, resistant varieties as I said earlier. In addition to the tips I’ve given already, rotate soya bean crops with maize to prevent an accumulation of disease levels in your field; uproot and destroy affected plants at an early stage of infection; don’t allow weeds to overtake your field; and spray the leaves with insecticides to reduce insect and disease activity before the crop flowers.
524. RIBADU: Is there something to know about harvesting soya? 525. MARIAM: Harvesting must be done at the correct time. If harvesting is done
by hand, when the leaves first start to turn yellow, it is best to cut down the plants and spread them to dry in a place where it is easy
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to collect the seeds as they fall out of the pods. Use a cement floor or tarpaulin as your storing place. Once the plants have dried very well, they can be threshed. Where not all plants ripen at the same time, the pods should be harvested from the plants that ripen first, while the other plants are left standing to ripen further.
526. RIBADU: Wow, look at the time. I could go on and on … Ah. There’s no more time. Too bad. Well, friends, with this, we have come to the end of today’s episode of In Kidiya Chanza … Send me a text on ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ and let me know what you think of today’s edition of the program. If I like your contribution, I’ll tell them to give you a very good prize that you will love. Remember, climate change is a reality and will continue to affect us poor farmers. But all hope is not lost. As we say, when the drum beats change, the dancer must change his dance steps to fit the new beat. So it is with the weather. We have to find ways to adapt to the changes we are seeing these days. Please seek information and knowledge from experts and other experienced farmers. Thank you for coming on the program today, Hajia Mariam,
527. MARIAM: You are welcome, Ribadu. 528. RIBADU: Okay, once again the number to send your text message is ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐It’s
been a wonderful time today with Hajia Mariam and a great time learning about soya cultivation. Thank you for tuning in. Hopefully this program series have been beneficial to you and your families and friends. Remember it’s In Kidiya Chanza … and I am Ribadu, your host. Until next time, practice what you’ve learnt. Peace and goodbye.
Acknowledgements This episode was written by Rebecca Ojedele and Alison Data Phido of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, and Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International.
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EPISODE 26
TOPIC – FUEL AND ENERGY
CHARACTERS Hindatu Babagana Dorcas Bulus Sambo Wada Agronomist (Mariam)
1. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER … 2. ANNOUNCER: PROGRAM TITLE AND OPENING CREDIT, THEME MUSIC UP, 0.5 AND UNDER ... 3. NARRATOR (RIBADU): NARRATOR (RIBADU): MY FRIENDS YOU
ARE ALL WELCOME TO ANOTHER INTERESTING EPISODE OF IN KIDIYA CHANZA … A DRAMA PROGRAM ABOUT PEOPLE JUST LIKE US, MEN AND WOMEN DEALING WITH CHANGE IN A POSITIVE WAY. MY NAME IS RIBADU AND I’M A FULANI HERDSMAN LIKE MY FATHER BEFORE ME. LISTENERS, STAY TUNED BEACAUSE TODAY’S TOPIC BY POPULAR DEMAND IS ABOUT FINDING SOLUTIONS TO THE DIFFICULTY IN GETTING WOOD FOR HOUSEHOLD USE, PARTICULARLY COOKING. OWING TO DEFORESTATION AND DESERT ENCROACHMENT IN OUR REGION, FIREWOOD IS LIKE GOLD. MAYBE OUR EXPERT GUEST WILL SHARE SOLUTIONS OF THE PROBLEM LATER BUT FIRST, WOULDN’T YOU LIKE TO KNOW WHAT OUR FRIENDS HINDATU AND BABAGANA, BULUS AND DORCAS AND SAMBO, DIKKO AND SAUDE ARE UP TO THIS WEEK? HOW ARE THEIR FARMS DOING? COME WITH ME TO VISIT KAKARAN JATAU WHERE HINDATU CONFRONTS BABAGANA ABOUT HIS PAST….
4. MUSIC: THEME MUSIC UP AND CROSS FADE TO ... SCENE 1:
5. SFX: THE FARM. AMBIENCE OF AN OUTDOOR SPACE. VOICES HUMMING SPORADICALLY, HOEING OR CUTTING NOISES.
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6. HINDATU: (COMING ON MIC) Good day, Babagana. How is the work going?
7. BABAGANA: (STARTLED. ON MIC) Ah! Hindatu, where did you spring from? I didn’t hear your footsteps.
8. HINDATU: (CHUCKLES, ON MIC) Sorry, Babagana. Did I surprise you? (SURPRISED) Ah‐ah! My God! Are these the soya beans you planted just the other day? (HAPPY) Hmn, Babagana, you are something else.
9. BABAGANA: (PLEASED) Thanks, Hindatu. 10. HINDATU: (EXCITED) It’s a lie. (IN WONDER) This cannot be the soya crop I
saw just two weeks ago! Ah‐ah. It’s amazing how everything you touch turns green and productive. People who say you have evil luck don’t know what they are talking about.
11. BABAGANA: (COLDLY) What do you mean, Hindatu? 12. HINDATU: (HESITATES) Ah! It’s nothing. Just forget about it. 13. BABAGANA: No. And moreover, how can I forget about something like this? 14. HINDATU: I said it’s nothing. Let’s talk about something else. 15. BABAGANA: What did you mean by that comment about people saying
I have evil or something? What people? 16. HINDATU: (BLUNTLY) Mhnn … It’s just that a lot of people here in Karkaran
Jatau believe you are evil, a walking disaster and an epitome of bad luck. Hasn’t anyone confronted you yet about all the talk going around about you?
17. BABAGANA: Actually no. (PAUSES ONE BEAT, AGHAST) Is that how people see me?
18. HINDATU: Of course that’s how they look at you. But on my side, I always wonder how you always manage to make crops and every farm you touch to thrive like this … upon all the things people say about you.
19. BABAGANA: Hindatu, I still don’t understand you. Can you please clarify yourself? What have I done to deserve such judgment from people who barely know me?
20. HINDATU: Well, I’ve got nothing to say about that, Babagana, but please let me ask you a question. Is it true that you have been married several times, and that in each case, each of the wives eventually died?
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21. BABAGANA: (ANGRILY) So you went behind my back to dig up my past? You had no right. (PAUSE) Hindatu, I’m disappointed in you. Don’t you have anything better to do with your life other than engage in idle gossip?
22. HINDATU: (DEFENSIVELY) That’s not fair, Babagana. Ever since you arrived, I’ve taken you at face value and never once asked or looked for answers about you from anyone that you yourself were not prepared to give.
23. BABAGANA: (CUTS IN) Look, Hindatu, I … 24. HINDATU: (CONTINUES TO TALK) Wait! Wait! Babagana … just hold it. And let
me clarify myself. I never in my life try to look for answers about you elsewhere because I trusted you more than anyone else …
25. BABAGANA: Really? Then you have a good way of showing trust. Is this before or after you had gone behind my back to look for information about me?
26. HINDATU: I didn’t go anywhere looking. The rumour came to meet me at home, so stop trying to insult me.
27. BABAGANA: I don’t intend to insult you, of all people. But I don’t appreciate you discussing me with other people.
28. HINDATU: Okay then, if that is the case, why don’t you just tell me what happened yourself? By the way, Tanko went to your home town in Kanem to investigate you and came back with your so‐called evil luck stories which are now being spread in Karkaran Jatau. Now please tell me your side of the story.
29. BABAGANA: (SOBERLY) Hindatu, you have to understand that I did not want to tell you because everything that happened in Kanem is something and a period of my lifetime that I don’t want ever to remember.
30. HINDATU: (PLEADING) Listen to me, you cannot run from the truth, Babagana. That will never solve anything.
31. BABAGANA: (BITTERLY) Hindatu, you can’t ever understand the kind of pressure I was under in Kanem because you’ve not been there …
32. HINDATU: I know but … 33. BABAGANA: (CUTS IN) Look, everyone was convinced that I was cursed. Even I
started to believe it … If not, how can three women associated with me die one after the other?
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34. HINDATU: That is all an unfortunate coincidence … I think you should just take it as part of your destiny.
35. BABAGANA: (BITTER) Do you know how very painful all that is? To be branded and believed to be cursed is not funny, Hindatu.
36. HINDATU: I know that it is not easy, but at least try to forget the past and face the future. Babagana, please try to move on
37. BABAGANA: But that is exactly what I’ve been trying to do. By moving down here. Apparently some people won’t let me forget just how unfortunate I am wherever I go. (SIGHS) So I suppose it’s time for me to move on. I really loved my stay here with your family, but I understand I must leave.
38. HINDATU: Why? Haba Babagana, don’t be ridiculous. To be very frank with you, I don’t think your going away is a solution. In the first place, I do not believe that all those things happened because of your bad destiny. It’s only God who knows why.
39. BABAGANA: Are you really serious? You want me to stay? 40. HINDATU: Of course I’m very serious. You see I have had my own share of
ridicule and branding by people, and I of all people understand that what people say is not usually a true picture of who you really are …
41. BABAGANA: (AMAZED) I’m impressed with your insight, Hindatu; I never for once dared to hope you will be this understanding.
42. HINDATU: How can I not understand when I have been through a similar circumstance?
43. BABAGANA: (SURPRISED) You? What happened? 44. HINDATU: You know my first marriage, my husband died after being sick
for just two days leaving me alone with our son. Not long ago, I remarried someone who promised to care for me and Zaharadeen. But as you know I ended up divorced. People will say I’m cursed or whatever, but does this make me a bad woman in reality?
45. BABAGANA: (SYMPATHETIC) Of course not … In fact you are one of the kindest and loveliest women I’ve ever met in my life.
46. HINDATU: Thank you. I just want you to know that unfortunate things will always happen and people will always have their own explanation and versions of the truth.
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47. BABAGANA: (TOUCHED) Thanks for the advice, Hindatu. You are so wise … and broadminded … It’s one of the reasons why I love you … (PASSIONATELY) I’m in love with you.
48. HINDATU: (SHYLY) Babagana, what kind of talk is this? Please just leave that alone.
49. BABAGANA: I need you to know how I feel even if you reject me. Hindatu, I really love you and would have loved to marry you if I wasn’t a cursed man.
50. HINDATU: (VEHEMENTLY) You are not cursed. Stop saying that! 51. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 2 52. SFX: DOOR OPENS AND FOOTSTEPS COME ON 53. BULUS: (HAPPILY) Ah! My dear Dorcas, is that you? Why are you
standing by the door? Please come in now. 54. SFX: SOUND OF FOOTSTEPS MOVING CLOSER 55. DORCAS: (RELUCTANTLY) Bulus, how are you? 56. BULUS: (HAPPILY) I’m fine now that you are here. And how are the girls
doing? 57. DORCAS: (COLDLY) They are fine. They have gone to school. 58. BULUS: (CONCERNED) Dorcas, are you alright? You sound very cool
today. Or is anything wrong at the farm? 59. HINDATU: (DISMISSIVELY) Nothing is wrong with the farm. 60. BULUS: (RELIEVED) Okay then, where is the Alele (moin‐moin or
steamed bean pudding) I asked you to prepare for me? 61. DORCAS: (SARCASTICALLY) Why don’t you go and ask your mistress to
cook your favorite meal for you? 62. BULUS: Dorcas, what kind of talk is this? 63. DORCAS: (UPSET) So you still have the guts to ask me to prepare food for you
after all you have done to me? 64. BULUS: (CONFUSED) I don’t understand what you are talking about, Dorcas.
Why are you so angry? 65. DORCAS: (TRYING TO CONTROL HERSELF) Okay! Okay! Can you tell me again
who you’re with when you had that accident?
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66. BULUS: (EXASPERATED) I told you I was transporting a client when it happened. Why do you doubt me?
67. DORCAS: (COLDLY) And does the client happened to be your girlfriend Rakiya?
68. BULUS: (SOUNDING GUILTY) That is not true. Dorcas, what are you getting at?
69. DORCAS: (ANGRILY) Stop lying. Let me tell you something. I bumped into Rakiya at the market where, foolish me, I went to buy ingredients for your meal. (MOCKING LAUGHTER) She didn’t mince words in telling me she is done with you forever and that I can now have you. (MOCKING LAUGH) How kind of her!
70. BULUS: (CUTS IN GUILTILY) Look, Dorcas, I think there has been some mix up in the whole issue; please listen to what I have to say …
71. DORCAS: Please just leave me alone with your bag of lies. 72. BULUS: Believe me, Dorcas, I’m not lying to you … 73. DORCAS: (SHOUTS) Bulus, let me be! And let me tell you something. I only
came here to inform you that I’m also done with you.… 74. BULUS: (DESPERATELY CUTS IN) Look, Dorcas, Rakiya is a liar and a
troublemaker. She is only trying to cause trouble between us because she can’t have me.
75. DORCAS: (COLDLY) Well! That is your business. Is it now that you’re bed‐ridden and paralyzed that you need me? If you think I will carry the responsibility of caring for you after you’ve betrayed me and squandered the money from the machine (motorbike) transport business? You better start thinking again.
76. BULUS: (PLEADINGLY) Please try and understand me Dorcas; It is not as bad as you think, I’m …
77. DORCAS: (CUTS IN) Please just leave me alone. After all I have gone through because of you. I’ve put up with all the headache you caused me over the years …
78. BULUS: (WEAKLY) Listen to me, Dorcas … 79. DORCAS: (CONTINUES TO LAMENT) Look at you, Bulus. You are lazy and
won’t work on your farm. (GETTING PROGRESSIVELY ANNOYED AS SHE GOES ON) You steal my money and give it to your women
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outside. You blame me for not giving birth to a male child. You ... (SIGHS) ... you left me on the farm until night fall because you would rather take your girl friend into the city (SHE STARTS TO CRY).
80. BULUS: (PLEADING) Please, Dorcas, forgive me. I never meant to hurt you …
81. DORCAS: (CUTS IN) Is it now that you’re being punished for your wickedness towards your family that you are sorry? Just count me out.
82. BULUS: (SHOCKED) Please, Dorcas, forgive me. I beg you in the name of God. I have changed because lying here in the hospital has helped me think about life. I’m very sorry.
83. DORCAS: Bulus, I don’t believe you nor do I believe that you will ever
change. I’m disappointed in you … in fact, I’m leaving right now. I have washed my hands of you since you’ve shown that you will never stop being a hopeless cheat.
84. SFX: SOUND OF FOOTSTEPS. DORCAS STORMS OUT OF THE ROOM 85. BULUS: (SHOUTING) Dorcas, please don’t go. I am sorry … 86. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO SCENE 3 87. SFX: SOUND OF FOOTSTEPS 88. SAMBO: (OFF MIC) Assalamu alaikum (Peace be upon you). 89. WADA: (ON MIC) Alaikumus Salam. (Peace upon you too) Who is it? 90. SAMBO: Yallabai (Your Highness), it is me, Sambo. 91. WADA: Ah yes, Sambo. Please come in. 92. SFX: (DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES) 93. WADA: You can sit on that mat, Sambo. 94. SAMBO: (COMING ON MIC) Thank you, sir. How is your family? 95. WADA: They are all doing fine. What about yours? 96. SAMBO: They are also fine. We thank God. 97. WADA: Are the cows alright? 98. SAMBO: Yes sir. They are in good health. 99. WADA: Well, Sambo, what brought you to the house today? 100. SAMBO: Em … emm ... (CONTINUES TO STAMMER)
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101. WADA: (CONCERNED) Why are you stammering, Sambo? Is anything wrong?
102. SAMBO: (SERIOUSLY) Em … sir, I have a confession to make which can land me in serious trouble. But I have no choice but to own up and take the responsibility and face whatever comes out of it.
103. WADA: (GENTLY) Please, Sambo, tell me what is happening? 104. SAMBO: (CONFESSES STRAIGHT OUT) I killed a young boy! 105. WADA: (SHOCKED) What! When did it happen and why? 106. SAMBO: I killed the boy during my last trip back from migration. (QUICKLY) It
was really an accident in the night when it was my turn to watch the cows.
107. WADA: Subhanallahi! With whom did you take turns? 108. SAMBO: Dikko. He and I decided to take turns in watching over the animals
because we had had some attacks by wild dogs. So when it was my turn, I thought I heard and saw one of those go to where the calves were sleeping. So I shot my arrow to scare it off.
109. WADA: (CONTINUES TO PROBE) Mhn … please continue … what happened next?
110. SAMBO: Dikko took over from me later and I went to sleep. In the morning he showed me the boy’s corpse. Unfortunately, it was a boy from the nearby village.
111. WADA: (WORRIEDLY) But why didn’t you confess to committing the crime then?
112. SAMBO: (HESITATES) I wanted to confess then, but Dikko advised me against it. We decided to bury the boy quickly and leave the area.
113. WADA: But were you aware that the boy’s corpse has been found later? 114. SAMBO: Yes, sir, I’m fully aware of that. Because when his relatives came
to our village asking people about what happened, I denied having any knowledge of the matter.
115. WADA: (COLDLY) If that is the case, why have you now come forward to confess after all this time?
116. SAMBO: (BITTERLY) I came because ever since this happened, Dikko has been blackmailing and extorting me. I’m now tired of hiding and so I
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have decided to confess and bear whatever punishment awaits me. I can not continue to live like this.
117. WADA: (THOUGHTFULLY) You should have confessed the truth earlier when it happened, or worst case after you returned from the trip.
118. SAMBO: (APOLOGETICALLY) I’m very sorry, sir; I have learned my lesson and I now want to bear my punishment as a real man would.
119. WADA: So what do we do now? How do we begin to tell the boy’s family? As you well know, his family has grieved a lot and when they couldn’t find the culprit they left everything to God and went home. (SIGHS) Telling them now will just open old wounds.
120. SAMBO: Well, sir, I think it will be better we tell them because I’m now ready to pay the price whatever it is.
121. WADA: (DOUBTFULLY) But, Sambo, are you sure that it is your arrow that killed that boy?
122. SAMBO: Sir, I’m sure the arrow is mine. 123. WADA: Okay, wait here for a second, I am coming. 124. SFX: SOUND OF FOOTSTEPS RECEEDING. DOOR OPENS AND
FOOTSTEPS RETURNING 125. WADA: (COMING ON MIC) Mhnn … Sambo, I want you to look at this
arrow very carefully. Do you recognize it? 126. SAMBO: (SURPRISED) Yes, I do. The arrow is mine. Where did you find it? 127. WADA: Well, you see, when the people from the boy’s village came to make
enquiries, they brought this arrow and said it was found embedded in the trunk of a tree not far from where the boy’s corpse was found.
128. SAMBO: We buried the boy with the arrow that killed him but I didn’t look at it. (EXCLAIMS LOUDLY) Oh my God! This means my arrow didn’t kill the boy?
129. WADA: It looks that way. Another person’s arrow did the damage. Since you and Dikko are the only two people there, it could have been Dikko who killed the boy during his own watch.
130. SAMBO: Oh my God, Dikko did this and is punishing me for it? God help me, ah let me not set my eye on him.
131. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO
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SCENE 4 132. SFX: SOUND OF CHICKENS CLUCKING AND GOATS BLEATING IN THE
BACKGROUND, SOUND OF APPROACHING FOOTSTEPS, SOUND OF FIREWOOD DUMPED ON THE GROUND OFF MIC.
133. DORCAS: (COMING ON MIC, SURPRISED) Ah‐Ah, Hindatu, when did you arrive?
134. HINDATU: I have been waiting for quite a while. 135. DORCAS: Ayah! Sorry. I wish I knew you were coming; I wouldn’t have gone
out. 136. HINDATU: No problem. Where are the girls? 137. DORCAS: They have gone to help their grandmother with some chores. I
myself went to buy firewood. 138. HINDATU: Where did you go to buy the firewood? Is the place very far? 139. DORCAS: You see firewood has become so expensive these days. In fact, it is
quite scarce these days and you have to go very far in order to get to buy.
140. HINDATU: Dorcas, you think it’s bad here, hmn, come to Kakaran Jatau. There are no trees, not to talk of firewood. It costs an arm and a leg. Women now resort to using any old thing, even harmful stuff like plastics and cow dung.
141. DORCAS: (RESIGNEDLY) I can understand why a woman will be so desperate as to use whatever she can find to cook because whatever the hardship, she is expected to make sure that food is cooked and served.
142. HINDATU: (AGREEING) That’s a woman’s lot. We use kerosene or charcoal to cook in our house. But now that the price of kerosene is so high, we’ve gone back to charcoal, which is slightly cheaper.
143. DORCAS: So tell me. How are things with Babagana? 144. HINDATU: (EXCITED) He is fine and guess what? He wants me to marry
him. 145. DORCAS: Wow! Tell me the full details my friend. 146. HINDATU: (DISMISSING THE ISSUE) Mhnn later ... I came because I heard what
happened to Bulus. How is he doing? I’m really sorry.
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147. DORCAS: Don’t be. (HISSES BITTERLY) Bulus is a fool and deserves all that has happened to him.
148. HINDATU: What kind of talk is this? What’s happened, Dorcas? 149. DORCAS: Mhnn … Hindatu, do you know that Bulus was on his way to
town with his girlfriend Rakiya when he got hit. All the time, I was waiting for him to come and get me from the farm.
150. HINDATU: (DISBELIEVINGLY) Dorcas, you don’t mean it. But was it not the same Bulus who swore that his affair with that woman was over?
151. DORCAS: Well, from all indications it wasn’t. And do you know that all the money he was supposed to be making with the motor bike was being spent on her while I’m still paying for the debt on the purchase of it?
152. HINDATU: (INCREDULOUSLY) Are you saying that Bulus did not give you a dime from the money he made daily?
153. DORCAS: I never saw a penny. And to make matters worse, he lied to me that he was with a passenger when they had the accident. But I later found out that his so‐called client is no other than his girlfriend Rakiya.
154. HINDATU: So what are you going to do now? 155. DORCAS: Ever since I found out, I have refused to go and see him at the
hospital. Do you know that the useless woman has now abandoned him since she found out he may never walk again.
156. HINDATU: What? Not walk again? That serious? Oh no, Dorcas, that’s terrible. (SIGHS) I’m not surprised, because Rakiya is a fair weather lover and a gold digger who has no real loyalty. I never ceased to wonder what Bulus saw in her.
157. DORCAS: Well, that is their business. As for me, I have had enough of his betrayals, lies and cheating. I don’t want him to kill me because of love and marriage.
158. HINDATU: God forbid. Please remember that your daughters and I need you alive. Mhn. You are my only real friend in this world. (PAUSES) You must try and forgive Bulus for the sake of your children.
159. DORCAS: No, I won’t forgive him because I have had enough of Bulus’ lies and deceit; I will be better off without him.
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160. HINDATU: (PLEADING) Haba, Dorcas, you are still his wife regardless of all his mistakes and if you don’t take care of him nobody will.
161. DORCAS: Let him face the music; at least this will teach him a lesson … 162. HINDATU: (CONTINUES TO PLEAD) Come on, Dorcas, you don’t want such a
thing on your conscience and moreover, Bulus may have indeed learnt his lesson from the accident and Rakiya showing her true colour.
163. DORCAS: (COOLY) Okay, I have heard. I will think about it. But I want you to know that I’m only doing this because you asked me to and for the sake of our friendship.
164. HINDATU: Please do that and I’m sure God will give you the strength to cope with this. Dorcas, it may not feel right now, but it is the right thing to do.
165. MUSIC: BRIDGE MUSIC UP AND FADES TO 166. RIBADU: Wow, finally the truth is out. So Sambo is not a murderer after
all. So who killed the boy? I mean, obviously from the drama, Sambo didn’t. Could it have been Dikko? Because they were the only two people around when the boy was killed. Did Dikko do it? Was it deliberate? Then why all the blackmail? What will Sambo do now that he knows he is not the murderer? I can’t wait to find out myself. Friends, it’s still In Kidiya Chanza and if you are just joining us, you have missed a lot but there’s more to come. I can’t help but hear the frustration in Hindatu and Dorcas’ voices when they were talking about firewood. On this program, we have been discussing climate change and its effect on agriculture. However, if people still have to cut down rare and valuable trees to make fire, then I think all our purpose for this program would have been defeated. After this short music break, Hajia Mariam will be in the studio with me and she will enlighten us on how to solve the issue of lack of firewood for cooking and what we can use as an alternative. Stay with us.
167. MUSIC: INSERT POPULAR HAUSA MUSIC 2.0 AND FADE UNDER ... 168. RIBADU: Welcome back, friends. It’s still your favourite program on
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radio, In Kidiya Chanza, and with me is Hajia Mariam. Welcome, Hajia.
169. MARIAM: Thank you, Malam Ribadu. 170. RIBADU: Here’s a problem for you, Hajiya. We are advised not to cut down
trees, especially in this part of the country where we have very few trees even to start with and because of desertification. But people need firewood to cook for their families. What should we do?
171. MARIAM: Wood is needed not just for cooking but also for furniture making, building and so on. We will always need wood for various purposes. We therefore advocate that if one tree is cut down for whatever reason, another should be planted in its stead.
172. RIBADU: That’s makes sense, but I think the demand for the wood is more than the available trees.
173. MARIAM: You are right, Ribadu. I am a woman and I feel the pressure of ensuring that food for my family is prepared whatever the
difficulties. Many women depend on firewood and charcoal to make food. But the unfortunate thing now is that there are so few trees, many people have to go very far distances to get firewood these days.
174. RIBADU: Just like Dorcas in our drama. 175. MARIAM: Yes, just like Dorcas. The average family requires a lot of wood to
cook at least three meals, in addition to heating water for baths. Buying firewood at the current high prices is more than many families can afford.
176. RIBADU: That is why these days you’ll see some women use bits of broken plastic in place of firewood. 177. MARIAM: Ribadu, people use all sorts of things to make fire to cook. Some
of these things like plastic and rubber are very harmful to health and the environment.
178. RIBADU: In what way? 179. MARIAM: Oh, because they release dangerous smoke and gases into the air that can cause eye problems even lung diseases. 180. RIBADU: Well, that means people should only use kerosene stove and gas cookers then.
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181. MARIAM: Not necessarily. How many people can afford to buy a gas cooker, cylinder and the gas? How many people even buy kerosene these days? A small bottle of kerosene costs over a hundred Naira. Many of our rural families can’t afford it.
182. RIBADU: My wife will not even cook with a kerosene stove or gas cooker. She claims that food cooked using such means are not delicious because it cooks so fast.
183. MARIAM: (CHUCKLES) That’s interesting. But you know many people in the cities use those stoves and enjoy delicious meals. It’s just the cost that prevents others from using them.
184. RIBADU: So that brings us back to firewood and charcoal. If they can’t use plastic because it is toxic and they can’t use kerosene and gas stoves
because they are expensive, I suppose the only alternative is firewood and charcoal?
185. MARIAM: That’s not the only alternative. But I can’t deny that for many rural families, firewood seems to be the only affordable or available option compared to other fuel sources. In that case, we can’t tell them not to cut trees. We can only enlighten them on how to do it, so that there will still be trees for our children and the generations to come and trees to protect our environment.
186. RIBADU: So what are you suggesting? 187. MARIAM: Well, I think that communities need trees for their survival and so it is important that you all understand that we cannot continue
to cut down existing trees for firewood or whatever without being equally responsible for planting and protecting trees. I think we have talked about fast‐growing trees on this program before?
188. RIBADU: Yes we have. I think that was when we discussed agroforestry and also when Sambo needed advise on choosing trees to plant on his farmland to fight the sand dunes .…
189. MARIAM: Okay good. In those places where some land is available, communities could designate a particular land area just for trees
for the purpose of a shelterbelt or woodlots. In addition to indigenous trees already existing there, fast‐growing trees and multi‐stemmed shrubs should be planted and nurtured by the
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whole community. Such trees and shrubbery are good sources of fuel wood, among other benefits. You see they recover from moderate lopping of up to a third of the branches. So when anyone in the community needs wood, the branches of the trees can be carefully trimmed and used. The entire community sets guidelines on the use and replacement of trees and shrubbery within its woodlots to ensure that these are protected to serve present and future generations as sustainable fuel wood, furniture and building timber sources and for preventing wind, sand and flood erosion. Also, individuals with land could plant these trees and shrubs on their field boundaries.
190. RIBADU: That makes a lot of sense and is a good motivation for growing communal trees. Perhaps you can remind me of some of those fast‐
growing trees again. You know as an old man, I forget things easily these days …. (LAUGHS)
191. MARIAM: (LAUGHS ALONG) Ah, Malam Ribadu. You? Old? Forgetful? You are ageless and forget nothing and you know it! But I don’t mind sharing information on some of these trees for the sake of our listeners. Okay, there is Dushe (Acacia Seyel). Not only is Dushe a good source of fuel wood and charcoal, one can get gum, ink and pesticides, medicinal leaves, and fodder for livestock. There is also Darbejuya (Azadirachta indica), also called neem. This tree is wide, dense and green all year round. It is very resilient because of its deep roots …
192. RIBADU: I know Darbejuya. We use twigs from it as chewing sticks (toothbrush). 193. MARIAM: What of Dorawa (Parkia dappertoniana)? It’s a common and very
useful tree. We all like to eat the fruit or at least use the seeds to make the fermented seasoning and protein added to soups (dawadawa). Let’s see … another tree I’ll recommend is Gawo (Acacia albida). Do you know that Gawo is also a fast‐growing tree that fixes nitrogen into the soil? Its leaves are good for feeding livestock (fodder) and the interesting thing about this tree is that it
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retains its leaves during the dry season, only to shed them at the beginning of the rainy season.
194. RIBADU: Yes, and I also know that it does not usually require much water and you can have leaves to feed your animals when everything else is dry or dead.
195. MARIAM: I also want to talk about energy‐saving stoves. Have you seen or heard of those? 196. RIBADU: Not really. Are they different from the kerosene and gas stoves? 197. MARIAM: Yes they are. I’m talking about fuel‐efficient wood stoves. The
best feature about these is that they require very small amounts of firewood or charcoal to heat up and cook your family’s meals or heat up bath water as needed. Using these fuel‐efficient woodstoves makes good economic sense because for those who buy firewood or charcoal, you need less and will save money for other important household needs. Even if your community has a woodlot, the pressure will be less on the trees and shrubs if people require less to cook, don’t you agree?
198. RIBADU: Certainly that is logical. But where can one find these fuel‐ efficient stoves to buy? 199. MARIAM: There is a type that is easily fashioned by women and men in the communities with locally available materials like clay and rocks. Another kind manufactured with some metal is done by local blacksmiths and tinkers and is very affordable. Some community
women’s organizations are already promoting these stoves in some of their projects. If interested, ask at your agric office or call BNRCC project at this mobile phone no. ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ for more information.
200. RIBADU: Alright, Hajia Mariam. Any other tips? 201. MARIAM: Yes. One last word. Do you know that groundnut (or peanut)
shells that we throw away are actually very good cooking fuel material?
202. RIBADU: Groundnut shells? 203. MARIAM: Yes, the same groundnut you know. It burns clearly and hot without bringing out much smoke. 204. RIBADU: Really?
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205. MARIAM: Really! Some communities in other parts of the world have tried it. The empty groundnut shells are gathered, dried and crushed. This is then mixed with some water and a binding agent such as corn or cassava starch and mixed into dough. The dough is then cut up into small bits and left to dry in the sun. These act as briquettes (or something similar to charcoal) for any stove and burn really well.
206. RIBADU: That’s something worth trying. I hope my friends will visit the agric office or call or SMS the BNRCC project at phone number ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐and find out more about this also because we grow groundnut and the shells are so far useless to us because even animals can’t eat them. Imagine that. (CHUCKLES) Groundnut shells? It is waste to us but to some people, it is fuel. Wow, Hajia, you have taught me something new again today. Thank you.
207. MARIAM: You are welcome, Ribadu. 208. RIBADU: I wish I can continue this discussion but my time is far spent.
Before I need to remind you that caring for our environment is a trust for our children and generations to come, so let's do our share of using the resources carefully. If you need more information about this and other climate change adaptation issues, please don’t hesitate to visit an agric office or call the BNRCC project on mobile number ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ I won’t ask any quiz today. Ahhh, disappointed, enh? I can’t help it. You all have trees to plant so get to it. Remember when the drum beats change, we must also change our dance steps. This is In Kidiya Chanza … and I remain your host, Ribadu. Till we meet again, bye‐bye!
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Acknowledgements This episode was written by Umma Mohammed Rakana and Rebecca Ojedele of the African Radio Drama Association (ARDA). Additional scripting and editing was provided by Alison Data Phido of ARDA. This episode was reviewed by Dr. John FitzSimons of the University of Guelph, Vijay Cuddeford of Farm Radio International, and Dr. John Ajigo from Nigerian Environmental Study/Action Team (NEST)/Building Nigeria’s Response to Climate Change (BNRCC). Additional reviews were provided by Dr. Lucky Omoigui of IITA/PROSAB (now at the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi); Samson Ogallah and Karen Shaw, Communication Officer and Volunteer on NEST’s BNRCC project, Dr. Joe Nyagher of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Director of Animal Health Services and Project director Avian Flu task force, and Nathalie Beaulieu of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC).
Special thanks to the Climate Change Adaptation in Africa (CCAA) program, a joint initiative of Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the United Kingdom’s Department for International Development (DFID) for supporting this radio drama.