OAP Folakemi Arowolo on her farm, near her house in Ibadan.
In the heart of urban living, where the sounds of the radio fill the airwaves, a remarkable on-air personality (OAP) decided to embark on a transformative journey beyond her studio, to the soil. A neglected 300-square-metre patch of land at her home, once overrun with weeds, became the canvas for a new chapter in her life. Folakemi Arowolo, popularly known as FolakemiMighty, is a popular radio host in Ibadan, who works with Lagelu FM/Splash FM Ibadan. With a sparkle in her eyes, she shares the enchanting moments of sowing seeds with FarmingFarmersFarms,
One of FolakemiMighty’s friends, who benefited from her farm.
From clearing weeds to nurturing growth
Faced with the dilemma of maintaining a garden overrun with weeds, the radio host contemplated a unique solution. With determination in her heart, she enlisted the help of a gardener, not just any gardener, but a knowledgeable farmer with insights into cultivation. The challenges were evident, but the vision of a thriving garden fueled her efforts. After getting the land cleared and prepared, she soon started sowing.
Fresh corn from FolakemiMighty’s farm within three months of gardening.
The miracle of growth
Corn, jute (Ewedu), okro, tomatoes, rodo, spinach, soko (Nigerian Spinach), and efo tete (African Spinach) found their new home in FolaMighty’s rejuvenated garden. The anticipation of seeing these seeds spring forth, like a miracle, filled her with hope and excitement. As the green shoots emerged, the radio host’s connection with the land deepened.
The therapeutic effect of gardening
Every morning, after the routine of her on-air life, the radio host would venture to her plot, removing weeds with care. Inspired by the therapeutic benefits of barefoot walks on soil, which she found out by research; she embraced this practice, fostering a profound connection with her burgeoning farm. “I also read from a report that it’s therapeutic to walk on bear feet on some soil for about 15 minutes a day”, she stated.
Fruits of her labour grace table
The joy of the first harvest was unparalleled. Fresh Ewedu, green and flavorful, went from the farm to her table. Overflowing with pride, she shared the bounty with friends, gifting them Jute and Spinach. The corn grew steadily, prompting curious glances from neighbors, who eventually witnessed the fruition of her labour.
OAP Folakemi Arowolo on her farm, near her house in Ibadan.
Challenges and resolve
Amidst the success, challenges arose. Caterpillars threatened the flourishing vegetables, prompting the radio host to seek help from her community. The shared knowledge and support became the remedy, allowing her farm to thrive.
Fresh corn from FolakemiMighty’s farm within three months of gardening.
Harvests and processing
With the first harvest in hand, the radio host proudly ventured into processing. Boiling, making Abari, and transforming corn into “Ogi” (a popular stable in Southwestern, Nigeria) showcased not only the fruits of her labour, but also the culmination of newfound agricultural knowledge. Her journey into farming is not just a personal endeavour, but a testament to the transformative power of embracing new passions and finding purpose in unexpected places.
FolakemiMighty’s reflections
Amid her farming adventure, the radio host reflected on the invaluable lessons of “Process and Patience”, learned. “It has taught me how not to eat my own seed. Imagine, how I now have a garden resource for all meals grown. It’s only oil that’s not featured, to make a complete meal for myself. Elated at her success, she announces; “Next season, I am planning to plant cassava, yam and other petty crops we eat in the house”. From the joy of witnessing growth to overcoming challenges with community support, Folakemi’s journey became a testament to the resilience of nature and the fulfillment found in cultivating the works of one’s own hands.
She ends her narration by saying;
“I love farming and I love the fact that I can farm and put food on my own table and with my own hands”.
