News in brief:
– Kano State government and partners invest ₦628 million to upgrade Dawanau International Grains Market with roads, solar lights, and security facilities.
– The largest grain market in West Africa now operates 24 hours, improving trading efficiency and profitability for farmers and traders.
The Kano State government, in collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank and the Lives and Livelihood Funds (LLF), has injected ₦628 million into the Dawanau International Grains Market to modernise its infrastructure and improve operations. This investment is aimed at boosting agricultural trade, ensuring smooth business activities, and enhancing security in the market.
Key infrastructure provided in Kano
Engr. Zaharaddeen Zarewa, representing the Kano State Agro-Pastoral Development Project, highlighted the state-of-the-art facilities developed with the funds. A significant portion, ₦508 million, was allocated for constructing a 4-kilometer road network with drainage systems and installing solar-powered streetlights. Additionally, ₦120 million was spent on building a multi-purpose secretariat, a mosque, and a police station to enhance governance, welfare, and security in the market.
The Dawanau International Grains Market, recognised as the largest grain market in West Africa, now operates 24 hours a day due to improved road access and reliable solar-powered lighting. For farmers and traders, this means better movement of goods, longer trading hours, and improved security, all of which contribute to increased profitability and business efficiency.
Impact on Kano’s commercial activities
Alhaji Baba Wawu, Deputy Chairman of the Dawanau International Grains Market, expressed satisfaction with the infrastructural improvements. He noted that the new facilities have boosted visibility at night, enhanced security, and improved overall commercial activity in the market. These developments are expected to strengthen Kano’s position as a regional agricultural trade hub.
Engr. Zarewa emphasised that the projects aim to close infrastructure gaps in the market, improve its value chain, and provide essential facilities that were previously lacking. The upgrades, including roads and a functional secretariat, will make trade easier for farmers and buyers, contributing to agricultural growth in Kano State.
