In a commendable initiative aimed at promoting community development and empowering youth and women, a cassava processing plant was inaugurated in Biase area of Nigeria. The event was attended by many local dignitaries including Chief Steve Omori and highlighted the importance of integrated projects to boost the local economy and provide more opportunities to the people.
The construction of the plant is part of the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprise for Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) project, which aims to support micro-agricultural enterprises and build the capacity of local people. In addition to the processing plant, the project includes the construction of a 1.3km farm road, a small bridge and 15 hectares of cassava plantations.
The local governor, Ebokpo, highlighted the importance of the project to the community, highlighting its multi-sectoral dimension. Indeed, beyond food production, the project also aims to improve local infrastructure, control floods and create value addition opportunities. This holistic approach ensures that locals remain active throughout the year and that their know-how is fully valued.
The national project coordinator, Dr Abiodun Sanni, highlighted the positive impact on reducing youth instability and empowering women through the integrated agricultural infrastructure. By connecting the agricultural road to the cassava processing mill and plantations, the project creates a complete value chain that benefits all stakeholders involved.
Chief Steve Omori expressed his gratitude for the initiative, noting that the cassava processing plant will contribute to improving the living conditions of the community, just like the classrooms built by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) in 2010. Testimonies from beneficiaries like Ms. Comfort Anthony confirm the positive impact of the project on their daily lives and their ability to create a better future for themselves and their community.
In conclusion, this inauguration marks a milestone in the economic development of the Biase region, providing tangible opportunities to the residents and demonstrating the transformative power of integrated projects focused on empowerment and sustainability.