Gov Yusuf partners IFAD to enhance agro-processing growth

Kano State will be committed to a timely funding of agricultural initiatives in partnership with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) as part of measures to improve agriculture in the state.

The State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf said the agricultural initiatives, essentially anchored on the Special Agro Processing Zone (SAPZ) programme of the state will see the state concretise recent moves with IFAD.

Speaking at an engagement with key stakeholders, Yusuf emphasised Kano’s strategic advantage within the agricultural value chain, especially its strengths in rice production, which encompass farming, processing, and marketing.

He said: “Kano serves as a vital hub for agro-processing, with access to vast markets across West Africa, including Mali, Libya, and Ghana.”
The partnership, when finally formalised through a Memorandum of Agreement, will stimulate effective resource management and strengthening local economic growth.

SAPZ National Coordinator, Dr. Kabir Yusuf noted that Kano is set to be the largest beneficiary of this initiative, with a significant budget of 130 million allocated for the program.

Ekove commended the state’s proactive measures and stressed the importance of adhering to the program’s objectives, ensuring that the benefits reach farmers and processors on the ground.