The Ifelodun local government area administration in collaboration with the Kwara State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), has trained 500 livestock farmers in goat fattening and animal feed production.
LEADERSHIP reports that the training, held in Idofian was part of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq administration’s efforts at improving rural livelihoods and prevent clashes between farmers and herdsmen in the state.
At the event, the deputy Governor of Kwara State, Mr. Kayode Alabi stressed the importance of the initiative in addressing challenges faced by rural farmers.
Represented by a member of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Ganiyu Salau, the deputy governor noted that the programme would not only reduce conflict between the farmers and herdsmen, but will also enhance the farmers’ income .
He encouraged participants to maximise the opportunity by applying the knowledge gained from the training to grow their businesses and produce an alternative feed from agricultural waste.
The chairman of Ifelodun local government area, Hon. Femi Yusuf highlighted the initiative’s potential to generate employment and reduce the cost of livestock production through local feed production.
He said that the local government is working with relevant stakeholders to provide essential amenities such as water and other rural development incentives.
In his remarks, the state project coordinator of L-PRES, Mr. Olusoji Oyawoye, urged youths in the area to take advantage of the opportunities in agriculture to become self-reliant and reduce dependence on white collar jobs.
He encouraged the trainees to commit to the programme to acquire the needed skills for personal and community development.
LEADERSHIP reports that the step-down training which is an offshoot of the L-PRES’ training on small ruminants production and crops residues processing, is part of a broader effort under the L-PRES programme to boost livestock productivity, reduce conflict, and build resilience in rural communities across the country.
