The Federal Government of Nigeria, working with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) through the Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP), has provided agricultural processing equipment valued at ₦310 million to women groups and young people in Anambra State.
The equipment was handed over in Awka by the State Project Coordinator of the FGN/IFAD-VCDP, Mrs. Deborah Onyefulu, to 20 newly trained youth fabricators and several cooperative societies.
Speaking at the event, Onyefulu explained that the distribution marked the second phase of the empowerment support under the programme in Anambra. She noted that the intervention is aimed at improving agricultural production, supporting agro-processing activities and creating better income opportunities for beneficiaries.
She stated that youths who received training in welding and fabrication were given starter tools such as generators, welding machines, inverter welders, drilling and filing machines, angle grinders, tool kits, container bodies and other essential equipment to help them begin their businesses.
Onyefulu also disclosed that women cooperatives received full cassava processing machines worth ₦100 million, provided under a 70:30 cost-sharing model. In addition, childcare materials valued at ₦30 million were supplied to assist nursing mothers while engaging in processing work.
According to her, the 20 youth beneficiaries made up of 18 men and two women were selected from the nine local government areas covered by the VCDP in the state. She praised the participants for completing their training and encouraged them to use the equipment responsibly to improve their lives and support local development.
She further revealed that a monitoring and mentoring team has been set up to ensure the equipment is properly used and that the programme delivers long-term benefits. Onyefulu also thanked the Anambra State Government for its support and cooperation.
While inaugurating the distribution, the State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Foster Ihejiofor, applauded the VCDP initiative, describing it as a strong boost to the agricultural reform drive of the Soludo-led administration.
He said the new processing equipment for cassava, rice and vegetables would help reduce losses after harvest and ease food prices. Ihejiofor urged beneficiaries to put their new skills and tools to good use to increase output and make food more affordable.
One of the beneficiaries, Ms. Rose Machi from Ayamelum Local Government Area, expressed appreciation to the VCDP and the state government, promising to use the support effectively.
Another beneficiary, Mr. Chinecherem Ibe from Orumba, said the intervention would help him grow his skills and also train others within his community.