How UK-sponsored £95m Initiative Will Benefit Nigeria’s Agribusiness, Climate Program
Propcom+, a UK-sponsored agricultural intervention project, has set a bold goal to uplift the incomes of four million Nigerians by 2030 through strategic agribusiness reforms. The initiative, which commenced in 2023 with £95 million in funding from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), seeks to stimulate rural economies by promoting bio-fortified seeds, veterinary vaccinations, and strengthening agribusiness networks. It also aims to attract £122 million in private sector funding to amplify its impact.
At a learning event in Kano, Dr. Adiya Ode, Political Director and Country Representative of Propcom+, emphasized the program’s unique market systems development approach, which facilitates rather than directly intervenes in agricultural markets. This strategy ensures sustainability and scalability, targeting improved productivity, climate resilience, and reduced resource-related conflicts.
Kano State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Dr. Danjuma Yankatsari, lauded the program for aligning with local and international initiatives like IFAD and the Islamic Development Bank. He highlighted its achievements in boosting crop production, promoting climate-resilient seeds, and supporting women and small-scale farmers exposed to environmental risks.
With eight years of planned implementation, Propcom+ hopes to scale models such as community seed multiplication, last-mile veterinary vaccine delivery, and rural seed promotion through partnerships with public and private entities. Strategy Director, Mr. Olamide Ojo, reported significant progress in scaling these initiatives, aiming to positively impact over four million Nigerians by the project’s conclusion in 2030.
Source- ThisDayLive
Expert Review for Agri-Food Stakeholders
Propcom+ exemplifies a well-rounded intervention strategy aimed at revolutionizing Nigeria’s agribusiness sector. By adopting a market systems development approach, the program addresses critical challenges such as agricultural productivity, climate adaptation, and economic inclusivity.
Here are key insights for stakeholders:
Market Systems Development Approach: The focus on working with market actors rather than direct interventions ensures the long-term sustainability of solutions. This strategy builds resilient supply chains and fosters public-private collaboration, reducing dependency on external aid.
Inclusion of Vulnerable Groups: The program’s emphasis on women and small-scale farmers is pivotal, considering their vulnerability to climate change and limited access to resources. This aligns with global best practices in achieving equitable agricultural development.
Investment Mobilization: Leveraging private sector funding of £122 million in addition to the initial £95 million reflects a robust financial strategy. Stakeholders should explore opportunities for co-investment to enhance impact.
Scaling Proven Models: Initiatives like community seed multiplication and last-mile vaccine delivery provide practical solutions to persistent agricultural challenges. Scaling these models can catalyze agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods across the nation.
Policy Synergy: Propcom+ complements existing programs, creating a unified framework for tackling agricultural and environmental issues in Nigeria. Stakeholders should engage in policy dialogues to ensure alignment and maximize benefits.
Recommendations for Agribusiness Stakeholders:
1. Engage with Propcom+: Agribusinesses, policymakers, and farmers should participate in workshops and collaborations to integrate these innovative models into their operations.
2. Invest in Climate Resilience: Adopt and promote climate-resilient seeds and farming practices to mitigate environmental risks.
3. Promote Public-Private Partnerships: Leverage Propcom+ as a platform for fostering collaborations that enhance market access and resource mobilization.
4. Focus on Women and Small Farmers: Ensure interventions target these groups, fostering inclusivity and addressing inequities in the agribusiness value chain.
Propcom+ stands as a transformative force for Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Its strategic focus, sustainability goals, and commitment to inclusivity promise a brighter future for millions of Nigerians reliant on agriculture for their livelihoods.
