By Chinyere Anyanwu
The Kwara State government, in collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), has launched a transformative agricultural initiative aimed at boosting livestock production and fostering rural development.
The State Coordinator of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) project, Busari Isiaka, who made this known in Ilorin, the state capital, at the weekend, revealed that the project is funded through a $57.2 million partnership between the state government and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) of Saudi Arabia. The initiative seeks to establish robust infrastructure to support investors and local farmers in beef and milk processing.
Isiaka emphasised the significance of the project, highlighting that it marks the first time a sitting governor has served as chairman of a steering committee for such an initiative. “To understand the importance of this project, it is a five-year initiative jointly funded by the state government and IsDB. While other states receive their support from the African Development Bank (AfDB), Kwara is pioneering this unique collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank,” he stated.
He noted that Kwara State’s early commitment to the project was demonstrated by its swift payment of counterpart funds, making it the first state to fulfill its financial obligations. This prompt action has enabled significant progress in project implementation.
“The initiative is primarily focused on improving agricultural infrastructure, particularly in the livestock sector, with a core objective of enhancing the livelihoods of rural communities.
“The SAPZ project will give special attention to youths and women while promoting food and nutritional security. It is designed to provide sustainable solutions for livestock farmers by ensuring access to modern processing facilities,” he explained.
Isiaka further disclosed that the project is being implemented across five local government areas: Ifelodun, Kaiama, Baruten, Asa and Moro.
The initiative, according to him, will feature Agricultural Transformation Centres where local farmers can process raw materials such as milk before they are transported to an agro-industrial hub in Malete, Moro Local Government Area, for further processing into dairy products like yogurt and cheese.
“The beef value chain will also be integrated into the project, with necessary facilities to support meat processing. To ensure seamless execution, extensive environmental assessments and community consultations were conducted
“Over 5,000 beneficiaries have been profiled to ensure that the infrastructure meets their needs, including access to potable water,” he added.
Isiaka noted that the project is currently in its design phase and is expected to transit into full infrastructural development later this year.
“By God’s grace, we will commence the construction of these facilities this year. The design phase will be completed in three months, after which contractors will take over.
“Additionally, the state government has engaged consultants to attract both local and international investors to the project. The goal of the Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ) is to reduce agricultural wastage and enhance value addition.
Kwara is positioning itself as a leader in livestock processing and this initiative will ensure that our farmers benefit immensely,” he assured.