Kwara Govt seeks partnerships with communities, others for large-scale farming
Kwara State is set to reshape its agricultural landscape by inviting communities, commercial farms, and schools owning a minimum of 10 hectares of contiguous cleared land to join a large-scale agribusiness partnership. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, is focused on the production of high-demand crops such as soybeans, cassava, and sorghum.
In a recent statement from Press Secretary Omotola Ashaolu in Ilorin, the government emphasized its commitment to boosting productivity, enhancing food security, and spurring economic development. Stakeholders are encouraged to collaborate with the state, leveraging modern mechanized farming techniques to secure sustainable agricultural growth and open new economic opportunities. The call for partnership submissions closes on Monday, February 3, 2025. Interested parties are advised to reach out to the Ministry for further partnership details before the deadline.
Source: Vanguard
Expert Review for Agri-Food Stakeholders
This initiative marks a strategic move by Kwara State to integrate advanced agribusiness practices into traditional farming systems. By focusing on crops like soybeans, cassava, and sorghum, the state is aligning its production portfolio with market demands and nutritional needs. Mechanized farming adoption not only promises enhanced productivity but also offers a pathway to reduce post-harvest losses and improve supply chain efficiency. This collaboration between the government and agricultural stakeholders is a positive step toward achieving sustainable growth and food security.
Recommendations for Stakeholders
- Assess Land and Resource Readiness: Ensure that the available land meets the minimum requirement and is suitable for mechanized farming.
Evaluate current infrastructure to support large-scale production, including access to water, storage facilities, and transportation networks. - Invest in Technology and Training: Consider investing in modern machinery and technology to maximize yield and operational efficiency.
Engage in training programs to familiarize farm managers and workers with mechanized farming practices and sustainable agricultural techniques. - Form Strategic Partnerships: Leverage this opportunity to build partnerships with local communities, academic institutions, and private investors to create a resilient agribusiness ecosystem.
Explore cooperative models that can facilitate knowledge sharing and risk management. - Market Analysis and Crop Diversification: Conduct thorough market research to align production volumes with market demand and to identify potential value-add opportunities.
Diversify crop production to hedge against market fluctuations and climate risks. - Sustainable Practices: Implement eco-friendly practices to maintain soil health and ensure long-term productivity.
Embrace innovations such as precision farming and data analytics to optimize resource use and minimize environmental impact.
By proactively addressing these areas, stakeholders can not only contribute to Kwara State’s agricultural transformation but also position themselves at the forefront of the evolving agribusiness sector.
