Kwara L-PRES empowers farmers with goats
In a significant step towards enhancing the livelihoods of smallholder farmers, over one hundred livestock farmers have benefited from the initial phase of a goats empowerment initiative spearheaded by key stakeholders in the state’s livestock sector.
The Commissioner for Livestock Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, made this announcement during the distribution exercise held at the State Coordination Office of the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) in Ilorin. This initiative forms part of the state government’s broader strategy to bolster the livestock sector by increasing the income of smallholder farmers engaged in livestock farming.
As the first Commissioner for the newly established Ministry of Livestock Development, Mrs. Thomas emphasized the positive outcomes of capacity-building training organized by the Kwara L-PRES Project. She noted that these programs have successfully shifted the mindset of local youths towards wealth creation and employment opportunities. The state Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, is committed not only to training but also to ensuring that everyone achieves financial independence, thereby uplifting their livelihoods and the state’s economic standing.
The beneficiaries, part of the “Agbeloba Omodara” Cluster farming group, were recognized for their efforts in sharing the knowledge acquired during intensive training with others at the grassroots level. Congratulating them, the Commissioner reiterated the government’s dedication to supporting all livestock farmers in realizing their aspirations and transforming the local livestock industry.
State Project Coordinator Mr. Olusoji Oyawoye informed attendees that the small ruminant animals were generously donated by individuals within the state aimed at encouraging cooperation among group members and enhancing their livestock operations. He highlighted livestock as a vital asset that can provide financial support during emergencies and shared insights on integrating crop and livestock farming to minimize feeding costs and maximize profits.
In response, the Chairman of the “Agbeloba Omodara” Cooperative Farming Group, Mallam Shuaib Ajibola, conveyed gratitude to the state government, the L-PRES project, and the goat donors for honoring their commitments made during training sessions. He assured stakeholders that they will ensure the animals are well cared for to fulfill the initiative’s objectives.
In related news, Commissioner Thomas visited the ongoing livestock projects at the Akerebiata Abattoir in Ilorin East Local Government Area to gather firsthand information on the government’s facilities. The commissioner reviewed several installations, including a newly constructed 60-ton solar-powered cold storage facility designated for preserving livestock products, slaughter facilities, and water resources, among others. The visit included a guided tour conducted by the management and executive members of the Kwara State Butchers Union.
This initiative showcases the commitment of the Kwara State government and its partners towards empowering farmers and developing the livestock sector for sustainable economic growth.
