…As french govt. presents diagnosis report on modernization of Lata Grazing Reserve.
The Kwara State Government has again reiterated its commitment to the development of livestock sector through adequate funding and purposeful partnership with development partners.
Governor AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq stated this while declaring open a 2-day presentation of diagnosis report on Lata Grazing Reserve by French BRL Ingenierie Consulting Company in Ilorin.
Mallam AbdulRazaq, represented by Senior Adviser and Councillor, Alhaji Sa’adu Salahu said the present administration partnership with French Government represents a significant stride towards comprehensive modernization of Lata Grazing Reserve in Patigi Local Government Area of the State.
According to the Governor, the expertise and resources of our French company will bring sustainability to this project, their collaboration is invaluable as we work together to achieve our goals”.
The Governor said the present government will continue to prioritize peaceful environment by addressing fundamental needs of both herders and crop farmers to have access to good water source and quality animal feeds with a view to prevent conflict, enhance and promote harmonious co-existence within the communities.
He further urged all the participants to actively engage, share insights, explore innovative solutions, exchange knowledge, ideas and best practices to achieve the targeted purpose.
In her welcome address, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas commended the great job done during the feasibility study of the grazing reserve, noted that it was meticulously carried out with the best resources globally.
” we have seen and read the recommendations and we are glad to discuss the execution with the relevant stakeholders, especially in light of ongoing livestock project in the state. Today’s workshop is a brilliant idea and it pave way to bring the stakeholders to unanimously work together to come up with a road map making execution seamless”.
The facilitators has done an amazing job, the good work they have been doing at Lata and the amazing sections we have been through. I want the facilitators to know they have kick started something we have been thinking of doing which is bringing the different stakeholders together along the livestock value chain, you started that for us and we really appreciate it and we assure you we will continue because that is the only way we can truly get the best out of the investment that the Government is making for livestock in kwara state”. She stated
The Regional Agriculture Councillor, French Embassy, Abuja, Dr. Sonia Darracq expressed her delight to be part of the team that started the journey some years back and reflected on some of the achievements of the team.
She however called for honest opinions from the stakeholders on the implementation of their findings, added that the French government is not only funding the first phase of the project but also involves in the implementation phase.
” for it to be done properly to the needs of Lata community, and in coordination with the other Institute we need contributions of other Institutions and international donors, as well as the international programmes that are seated; SAPZ, L-PRES, and RAAMP, we need you to give us your advises, opinions and the way you see its future”.
It would be recalled that the Kwara State Government had earlier signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with French Government on the development of Lata Grazing Reserve to the global standard.
The participants at the Programme includes; Traditional Rulers, SSA on Community Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe; Representative of relevant Ministries and Agencies, Representative of L-PRES National Coordination Office, Mr. Wasiu Adeoye; State Coordinator L-PRES Project, Mr. Olusoji Oyawoye; State Coordinator SAPZ Project, Engr (Dr.) Busari Isiaka Toyin; State Coordinator, RAAMP Project, Engr. (Dr.) Isaac Kolo; Executive Director, ARMTI, Dr. Olufemi Oladunni, Former Kwara NVMA Chairman, Dr. Saka Shittu among others.
Highlights of the programme is the presentation of findings in Lata Grazing Reserve Project, Syndicate group discussions and their recommendations as well as contributions from development projects in the State.