The Kwara State government has embarked on an agricultural transformation initiative aimed at boosting livestock production and promoting rural development.

Speaking with journalists in Ilorin on Thursday, the state coordinator of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ), Engineer Dr. Busari Isiaka, announced that the SAPZ project is funded through a $57.2 million partnership between the state government and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) of Saudi Arabia. The project aims to establish robust infrastructure for investors and local farmers in beef and milk processing.

Engineer Isiaka, who emphasized the significance of the project, noted that this is the first time a sitting governor is serving as the chairman of a steering committee for such an undertaking.

“To understand the importance of this project, it is a five-year initiative with joint funding from the state government and IsDB. Other states in the federation receive their support from the African Development Bank, but Kwara is pioneering this collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank,” he said.

He also highlighted Kwara State’s early commitment to the project, pointing to its prompt payment of counterpart funds, making it the first state to fulfill its financial obligations. This swift action has allowed the state to make significant progress.

“The initiative is primarily focused on improving agricultural infrastructure, particularly in the livestock sector, with the core objective of enhancing the livelihoods of rural communities. The SAPZ project will give special attention to youth and women while promoting food and nutritional security. It is designed to provide sustainable solutions for livestock farmers by ensuring they have access to modern processing facilities.”

Engineer Isiaka further explained that the project is being implemented in five local government areas: Ifelodun, Kaiama, Baruten, Asa, and Moro. The project will feature Agricultural Transformation Centres where local farmers can process raw materials, such as milk, before they are transported to an agro-industrial hub in Malete, Moro Local Government Area, for further processing into dairy products like yogurt and cheese.

“The beef value chain will also be integrated into the project, with necessary facilities to support meat processing.”

“To ensure smooth execution, we conducted extensive environmental assessments and community consultations. We have profiled over 5,000 beneficiaries to ensure that the infrastructure meets their needs, including access to potable water,” he said.

The project, currently in its design phase, is expected to transition into full infrastructure development later this year.

“By God’s grace, we will commence the construction of these facilities this year. The design phase will be completed in three months, after which contractors will take over,” he said.

The SAPZ state coordinator also mentioned that the state government has engaged consultants to attract both local and international investors to the project.

“The goal of the Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ) is to reduce agricultural wastage and enhance value addition. Kwara is positioning itself as a leader in livestock processing, and this initiative will ensure that our farmers benefit immensely,” he concluded.

Source - https://tribuneonlineng.com