The Enugu State Government, in partnership with the International Fund for Agricultural Development-Value Chain Development Programme (IFAD-VCDP), has unveiled a significant milestone in rural development. Over forty-five projects have been commissioned across five Council Areas of the state, aimed at empowering local farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity.
The event drew a substantial crowd of locals eager to witness the inauguration of these vital projects. The benefiting Local Government Areas include Aninri, Enugu East, Nkanu East, Isi Uzo, and Udenu.
Among the commissioned projects are rice milling processing centers, solar-powered boreholes, and cassava processing centers strategically located to serve the farming communities. These initiatives signify a concerted effort to bolster agricultural infrastructure and support rural livelihoods.
Mr. Patrick Ubru, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro Industrialisation, emphasized the government's commitment to poverty alleviation and agricultural development. He reiterated Governor Peter Mbah's vision to rejuvenate the agricultural sector, drawing parallels to the era of Dr. Michael Okpara's agricultural prowess in the region.
Dr. Edward Isiwu, the State Programme Coordinator of IFAD-VCDP, highlighted the transformative impact these projects would have on rural farmers, enabling them to enhance food production and add value to their yields. He expressed gratitude for Governor Mbah's dedication, which facilitated the successful implementation of these initiatives.
In a gesture of appreciation, the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia, commended the resilience of farmers and assured them of continued government support. He acknowledged their pivotal role in ensuring food sufficiency within the state.
Two local farmers, Mrs. Lovelyn Ejim and Mr. Lawrence, lauded the intervention of IFAD-VCDP, Governor Mbah, and Dr. Isiwu, expressing gratitude for the positive impact on rural communities.
