Empowering Women, Enhancing Nutrition: ACReSAL’s Impact in Kogi State
The Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project is making a significant impact in Kogi State, Nigeria, through its Community Climate Resilience component. This initiative supports community strengthening and investments in targeted micro watersheds, focusing on climate-smart agricultural activities.
In Kogi State, the first phase of the community revolving fund (CRF) has benefited 20 Community Interest Groups (CIGs) in 10 communities, with 208 beneficiaries, 176 of whom are female. These groups have engaged in various agricultural value chain activities, including food production, processing, and marketing. Notably, the CRF contributes to a sustainable environment by promoting climate-resilient practices.
Raji Mary, a beneficiary in the processing group, expressed gratitude to ACReSAL and the World Bank: “What ACReSAL is doing here today is a benefit not just to us, but to the entire community. You have lifted us out of poverty and opened our eyes to new possibilities.” Abdulsalam Safia Ehenesie, chairperson of the Cassava and Maize Processing CIG in Okene, highlighted the benefits of collaborative effort and ACReSAL’s support: “We are two groups – cassava and maize processing groups. We came together to acquire land and equipment, making the job easier. We bought this land and other equipment from the fund received from ACReSAL. That very day we started the processing, and before the next day, everything had finished – there were no leftovers, as it was all bought. We produce garri of different types, both white and red, in a hygienic environment.”
National Project Coordinator Abdulhamid Umar praised the commitment and hygiene of the processing mill, emphasizing the importance of women’s empowerment: “This means a mother or sister can feed her home without relying solely on men.” Dr. Joy Iganya Agene, Task Team Leader for ACReSAL and Senior Environment Specialist at the World Bank, congratulated the CIG members: “We’re super proud of you. Your resilience and efforts contribute to Nigeria’s nutritional agenda. You’ve demonstrated ownership of investment, and we’ll support you to push this further.”
Kogi State Project Coordinator, Barr. Ladi Ahmed Jatto-OON, emphasized the importance of community ownership and support during a courtesy visit to the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland: “We appeal to the communities for support and ownership of project investments. This will ensure the project’s sustainability and maximize its impact.”
As the Ohi of Adavi noted, “The project’s success is thanks to the support of His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, and his predecessor, who prioritized the benefits and took the loan for the people of Kogi State.”
The ACReSAL mission team also engaged with communities in Okene, inspected project sites, and received assurances from local authorities on their commitment to owning, safeguarding, and sustaining the project.
Hon. Nuhu, the chairman of Okene Local Government Area, praised the project’s impact, emphasizing protection and project investments its role in enhancing food security and economic empowerment.
The ACReSAL project is indeed making a tangible impact in Kogi State, empowering women, enhancing nutrition, and promoting sustainable environmental practices.
