From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Kwara State government, has unveiled an ambitious agricultural transformation initiative, aimed at improving livestock production and fostering rural development across the state.
During an exclusive interview with journalists in Ilorin, the state coordinator of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ), Dr. Busari Isiaka, revealed that the project is being funded through a $57.2 million partnership between the state government and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), of Saudi Arabia.
“The funding will establish state-of-the-art infrastructure that will benefit both investors and local farmers engaged in beef and milk processing.”
Engineer Isiaka highlighted the importance of the initiative, emphasising that Kwara State is the first in the country to have a sitting governor chair the steering committee of such a monumental project.
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“For you 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 stated.
Noting Kwara’s commitment to the project, Isiaka pointed out that the state was the first to fulfill its counterpart funding obligations, which allowed the state to make remarkable progress.
“The initiative is focused on boosting agricultural infrastructure, particularly in the livestock sector, to improve the livelihoods of rural communities. It will also pay special attention to youth and women, while addressing food and nutritional security.
“By providing access to modern processing facilities, we aim to offer sustainable solutions for livestock farmers,” he said.
The SAPZ project will be implemented across five local government areas: Ifelodun, Kaiama, Baruten, Asa, and Moro.
It will feature Agricultural Transformation Centres, where local farmers will process raw materials like milk, which will then be transported to an agro-industrial hub in Malete, Moro Local Government Area for further processing into dairy products like yogurt and cheese.
The project will also integrate the beef value chain, providing necessary facilities to support meat processing.
“We have taken steps to ensure that the project meets the needs of the local communities. We have conducted extensive environmental assessments and community consultations, profiling over 5,000 beneficiaries. Access to clean water is one of the key considerations,” Isiaka added.
The SAPZ project is currently in its design phase, with full infrastructure development expected to commence later this year.
“By God’s grace, we will begin construction this year. The design phase will be completed in three months, after which contractors will take over,” he confirmed.
To support the project, the state government has enlisted consultants to attract both local and international investors.
“The ultimate goal of the Special Agro-Processing Zone is to reduce agricultural wastage and enhance value addition. Kwara State is positioning itself as a leader in livestock processing, and this project will ensure that our farmers benefit significantly,” he concluded.
