The Africa Nature Investors (ANI) Foundation, in collaboration with the National Park Service (NPS), has launched a transformative rice mill project to empower women in Gashaka local government council of Taraba State.

The initiative is part of the foundation’s Savings and Loan Programme which supports over 2,000 women across 40 villages near the Gashaka-Gumti National Park.

The rice mill was donated to the Unity Group and has become a beacon of hope for local communities, driving economic growth and improving livelihoods.

Speaking with The Guardian, the leader of the Unity Group, Juliana Maigida, highlighted the significant impact of the project, stating that, “Since ANI provided this rice milling machine, our living standards have drastically improved.

“Previously, affording three square meals a day was a challenge, but now that has changed,” she said. Maigida further revealed that within the first six months of operation, the group saved over ₦600,000.”

Our correspondent gathered that the rice mill charges ₦2,500 per bag of rice, creating a steady income stream for the women and local farmers.

According to Bello Ali, the machine operator, the project has also boosted employment.

“This machine is a game changer. I work with four assistants to meet the demand, especially on busy days. Each worker earns between ₦1,500 and ₦2,500 daily, and they are well-fed. The project benefits the entire community,” Ali said.

On his part, ANI Foundation’s Community Relations Manager, David Peter, emphasized the broader impact of the initiative, explaining that, “We provided the rice milling machine and an interest-free loan to the Unity Group.”

“They took ownership, securing a location and constructing the facility. The income from the mill has allowed them to repay the loan, support their families, and add value to locally produced rice,” he explained.

Peter noted that the project has improved household incomes, enhanced food security, and created jobs, underscoring ANI’s commitment to sustainable development in rural Nigeria.

The success of the rice mill initiative, according to him, reflects the ANI Foundation’s dedication to empowering women and fostering economic growth in underserved communities.