News in Brief:
– The NG-CARES programme in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory has distributed grants to over 12,000 farmers and is preparing for phase 2.
– Officials are conducting impact assessments and providing equipment to enhance operations, focusing on strengthening food security and agricultural supply chains.
The Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme has successfully distributed grants to 12,423 farmers within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This initiative targets bolstering agricultural productivity and fostering economic recovery.
Lawan Geidam, Mandate Secretary of the FCT Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat (ARDS), revealed the figures during the inauguration of a Pre-Field Training for Enumerators in Gwagwalada.
He stated that the grants were instrumental in supporting the livelihoods of numerous farmers, with 66% of the total disbursement occurring within the last two years. Notably, 181 Farmers’ Community Associations benefited from the programme.
“This significant achievement underscores the programme’s effectiveness in reaching and empowering our farmers,” Geidam said.
Preparation for NG-CARES 2.0 and impact assessment
The pre-field training is a crucial step in preparing for the Endline and Beneficiaries Impact Assessment Survey, which will evaluate the programme’s overall impact.
According to the secretary, the World Bank has approved additional funding, rebranding the initiative as Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES 2.0) after the success of NG-CARES 1.0. The new phase is expected to launch in June 2025.
“NG-CARES 2.0 will build upon the successes of the previous phase, further strengthening our agricultural sector and ensuring long-term economic resilience,” Geidam stated.
Furthermore, Hussaini Iliyasu, FCT FADAMA CARES Coordinator, reiterated the programme’s core objectives. He stressed its commitment to strengthening food security and agricultural supply chains.
Additionally, Uba Bala, FCT CARES Coordinator, highlighted the importance of compiling a comprehensive Programme Completion Report to inform and enhance future programme implementation.
“A thorough evaluation will provide valuable insights for improving future interventions and ensuring sustainable development,” Bala explained.
In the meantime, office equipment was distributed to FCT FADAMA CARES desk offices in all six area councils to further support operations. This initiative aims to streamline operations and enhance the efficiency of programme delivery.
