KWSG, IsDB to invest $57.2m in livestock projects

By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin

The Kwara State Government, in partnership with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), Saudi Arabia, will invest $57.2 million in Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) projects in the state over five years.

The state coordinator for SAPZ, Engineer Dr. Busari Isiaka, while speaking with newsmen in Ilorin, said the project would establish robust infrastructure for investors and local farmers in beef and milk processing.

Engineer Isiaka stated that the project is being implemented in five local government areas—Ifelodun, Kaiama, Baruten, Asa, and Moro—and will feature Agricultural Transformation Centres, “where local farmers can process raw materials such as milk before they are transported to an agro-industrial hub in Malete, Moro Local Government Area, for further processing into dairy products like yogurt and cheese.”

“To understand the importance of this project, it is a five-year initiative with joint funding from the state government and IsDB. Other states in the federation receive their support from the African Development Bank. Kwara is pioneering this collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank,” he said.

He also noted that Kwara State’s early commitment to the project was evident in its swift payment of counterpart funds, making it the first state to fulfill its financial obligations. He added that this prompt action had allowed the state to progress significantly.

“The initiative is primarily focused on improving agricultural infrastructure, particularly in the livestock sector, with the core objective of enhancing the livelihoods of rural communities. The SAPZ project will give special attention to youth and women while promoting food and nutritional security. It is designed to provide sustainable solutions for livestock farmers by ensuring they have access to modern processing facilities.”

“To ensure smooth execution, we conducted extensive environmental assessments and community consultations. We have profiled over 5,000 beneficiaries, ensuring that the infrastructure we are providing meets their needs, including access to potable water,” he said.

“By God’s grace, this year we will commence the construction of these facilities. The design phase will be completed in three months, after which contractors will take over,” he added.