Kano State is poised to host a significant workshop, pending any last-minute changes. The event is expected to be chaired by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and will draw the participation of approximately twenty state governors. Additionally, representatives from ten African nations, as well as leadership from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) headquarters in Jeddah and the Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA) from Tokyo and the USA, are set to attend.
A statement released by SAA Communication Officer, Mr. Moses Nongoatse, confirmed that the workshop is scheduled for October 7 and 8, 2024. This gathering aims to address critical issues in agricultural transformation, with a particular focus on the IsDB-funded Kano State Agropastoral Development Project (KSADP).
The workshop will be conducted in collaboration with the IsDB and the Kano State government. Its theme, “Agricultural Transformation and What Works: Reflections from the Crop Value Chain of the Kano State Agropastoral Development Project (KSADP),” will emphasize the achievements of the KSADP while fostering dialogue on how to replicate its successes in other states.
Dr. Godwin Atser, the SAA Nigeria Country Director, highlighted that the workshop will not only showcase the accomplishments of the KSADP but also create valuable networking opportunities for the attending governors. This will allow them to explore possible funding avenues from the IsDB for agricultural initiatives within their respective states.
Over the past three years, the KSADP has strategically positioned Kano for sustainable agricultural growth. The project has made significant investments in areas such as climate-smart agriculture, livestock development, dam infrastructure, post-harvest loss reduction, employment creation, poverty alleviation, and overall infrastructure enhancement.
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The workshop will serve as a platform to discuss these advancements and their impact on the local agricultural landscape. Participants will have the chance to engage in meaningful discussions about best practices and innovative approaches that can be implemented across different regions.
Moreover, the two-day event will include the launch of a large-scale mechanization support initiative aimed at bolstering the agricultural sector in Kano. This initiative is expected to enhance productivity and efficiency, providing farmers with the tools necessary to thrive.
Overall, this workshop represents a significant opportunity for collaboration and knowledge sharing among key stakeholders in the agricultural sector, paving the way for future growth and development in Kano and beyond.