In a recent initiative, the Anambra State Government has distributed agricultural equipment and crèche furniture worth approximately 15 million naira to beneficiaries of the FGN/IFAD Value Chain Development Program (VCDP) under Additional Financing (VCDP-AF). The distribution event took place at the Ministry of Agriculture in Awka, drawing recipients from various council areas across the state.
The distributed rice production equipment included power tillers, rice planters, and free energy pumps. The crèche furniture comprised mattresses, standing fans, chairs, assorted toys, and educational materials. These items aim to support the welfare of nursing mothers working at processing centers.
During the handover ceremony, Commissioner for Agriculture Dr. Forster Ihejiofor, represented by Permanent Secretary Mrs. Ifeyinwa Uzoka, praised Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his unwavering support for agricultural development, particularly in fostering women and youth agropreneurs. Dr. Ihejiofor emphasized that the provision of rice production equipment is designed to enhance the productivity and cost-efficiency of smallholder farmers, contributing to sustainable food security.
The Commissioner issued a stern warning that any group found selling the provided equipment will be blacklisted, along with their respective council areas. A monitoring committee will be established to ensure proper utilization of the equipment across various clusters.
Dr. Ihejiofor highlighted Anambra State’s pivotal role in the green oil revolution, an initiative aimed at positioning agriculture as a viable alternative to oil.
Acting State Programme Coordinator for FGN IFAD VCDP, Dr. Mrs. Deborah Onyefulu, revealed that over 13,000 farmers are currently benefiting from the VCDP, which supports rice and cassava value chains in production, processing, and marketing. She noted that the equipment and crèche furniture for the 2023/2024 season are funded through a matching grant of 70% from FGN IFAD VCDP and 30% from the beneficiaries. Dr. Onyefulu emphasized that the VCDP is not only boosting farmers’ capacity, leading to increased yields and incomes, but also addressing issues such as financial inclusion, environmental sustainability, climate change, nutrition, and gender and youth inclusion.
Beneficiaries expressed their gratitude and optimism. Mr. Emeka Agulu, a rice farmer from Mmiata-Anam, and Mrs. Bridget Orji from Orumba South, highlighted the critical need for the equipment to enhance their farming operations. Mrs. Chinwe Okafor from Orumba South, a recipient of the crèche furniture, expressed her joy and appreciation for the VCDP’s support, assuring the proper use of the provided items.
