AGRA to boost rice production in Niger

The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) says it would support local farmers to boost rice production and other mandate crops during the 2019 farming season in Niger State. AGRA’s Country Manager, Dr Kehinde Makinde, made the promise at a meeting between his team and those of the state Ministry of Agriculture and […]

The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) says it would support local farmers to boost rice production and other mandate crops during the 2019 farming season in Niger State.

AGRA’s Country Manager, Dr Kehinde Makinde, made the promise at a meeting between his team and those of the state Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in Minna yesterday.

AGRA, which is funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation as well as the Rockefeller Foundation, deals with improving agricultural products and supporting local farm owners and labour in Africa.

It aims to double the income of 20 million small farmers in Africa, reduce food insecurity by 50% in 20 countries, and ensure that at least 15 countries are on a path of sustainable and climate-friendly green agriculture.

Represented by the state’s Associate Programme Officer, Mr Godswill Aguiyi, the Country Manager said the alliance would strengthen the capacity of the ministry to increase income and improve food security of small holder farmers to enhance programme delivery.

He said the support was through the Partnership Inclusive Agricultural Transformation in Africa (PIATA) component under AGRA. The Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr Ibrahim Garba Musa, appreciated AGRA for its support, while pledging the state government’s commitment to the implementation of the programme.