Kwara State government has partnered the Islamic Development Bank, IsDB, Saudi Arabia, to invest $57.2 million in an agricultural transformation initiative aimed at boosting livestock production and rural development.
State Coordinator of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone, SAPZ, Dr Busari Isiaka confirmed the partnership in an interview with journalists yesterday in Ilorin.
He said the project was funded through this partnership to establish robust infrastructure for investors and local farmers in beef and milk processing.
Isiaka emphasised the significance of the project, saying it marked the first time that a sitting governor had served as chairman of a steering committee for such an initiative.
“To understand the importance of this project, it is a five-year initiative with joint funding from the state government and IsDB.
“While other states receive support from the African Development Bank, Kwara is pioneering this collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank,” he said.
He noted that Kwara demonstrated early commitment by swiftly paying its counterpart funds, making it the first state to fulfill its financial obligations.
“This prompt action has enabled significant progress on the project.
“The initiative primarily focuses on improving agricultural infrastructure, particularly in the livestock sector, with the core objective of enhancing the livelihood of rural communities.
“The SAPZ project will prioritise youths and women, while promoting food and nutritional security.
“It was designed to provide sustainable solutions for livestock farmers by ensuring access to modern processing facilities,” he added.
Isiaka also stated that the project is being implemented in five local government areas– Ifelodun, Kaiama, Baruten, Asa, and Moro.
He explained that it would feature Agricultural Transformation Centres.
According to him, the project is currently in its design phase and is expected to transition into full infrastructural development later this year.
He also revealed that the state government has engaged consultants to attract 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 said. (NAN)
