Zakari Isah - Kaduna
The Kano State Agro-pastoral Development Project (KSADP) has embraced the agricultural development initiatives of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf's administration, aiming to enhance food security, nutrition, and income stability in the state.
Funded by the Islamic Development Bank, the Lives and Livelihoods Fund (LLF), and the Kano state government, the project is investing substantial amounts of money to rejuvenate the agricultural sector. Focus areas include the development of crop and legume value chains, as well as improvements in the livestock subsector.
"In this context, we are financing our technical partners to train farmers on climate-smart and market-oriented agriculture, with the goal of increasing crop production sustainably, preserving the environment, and promoting farming as a viable business," stated Malam Ibrahim Garba Mohammad, the State Project Coordinator for KSADP.
Mohammad highlighted the dissemination of improved seed varieties and the enhancement of capacities among extension agents, local agricultural tool fabricators, and women in agriculture as key initiatives of the project.
He also noted the completion of the renovation of Watari dam and irrigation infrastructure, coupled with the expansion of irrigable land by an additional 1,000 hectares, foreseeing a significant boost in food production and job creation in Kano.
"In line with the vision of the present administration, we are establishing Commodity and fodder aggregation centers across the state to minimize losses and improve market access," added Malam Ibrahim.
Furthermore, KSADP continues its cow and ram fattening initiatives, along with goats' reproduction schemes, aiming to support over 6,000 beneficiaries this year, thus enhancing their livelihoods.
Despite challenges such as inflationary trends, Malam Ibrahim highlighted the resolution of key issues like the availability of land for Milk collection centers, thanks to the intervention of the state Deputy governor, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam.
Mr. Javed Khan, leader of the mission from the Islamic Development Bank, emphasized the expectations for KSADP in terms of disbursements and results. He underscored the importance of project sustainability, noting its potential to attract more donor-funded initiatives to Kano even after its conclusion.
*Ameen K. Yassar, Project Communication Specialist, KSADP.*
0 Comments