News in Brief:
– The Lagos State Agricultural Development Authority launched Farm Junction to connect farmers directly with consumers and reduce post-harvest losses.
– It offers farmers storage, packaging, transportation, and market access, potentially boosting food security and empowering farmers.
The Lagos State Agricultural Development Authority (LSADA) has launched a new initiative, aimed at tackling post-harvest losses and connecting farmers directly with consumers.
The initiative, called Farm Junction, seeks to address the challenge of marketing and post-harvest losses faced by many farmers across the country. Farm Junction will serve as a platform to connect stakeholders in the agricultural value chain, including farmers, processors, sellers, and consumers.
Managing Director of Farm Junction, Yinka Omogoye, explained that the initiative will provide various support structures to farmers. These he added will include storage facilities, packaging, transportation, and logistics at minimal costs. This comprehensive approach aims to increase farmers’ return on investment and encourage them to increase production, ultimately contributing to food security for Lagos and the nation.
Also, speaking in the same vein, Programme Manager of LSADA, Alade Adewale, stressed the importance of understanding the challenges faced by farmers. The stakeholders’ meeting facilitated by LSADA served as a platform for direct communication with farmers to identify and address their specific needs and concerns.
Industry support and potential benefits
Industry stakeholders like Babatunde Wilkey, Managing Director of Meat Embassy, commended the initiative, highlighting its potential to reduce market prices through collaboration and synergy among various stakeholders. He emphasised the need for a central platform to connect all participants in the agricultural value chain, potentially benefiting both producers and consumers nationwide.
Farmers present at the meeting also expressed their appreciation for the initiative. They acknowledged the significant challenge of marketing, particularly for perishable goods, and believe that Farm Junction’s efforts to address storage and market access will be instrumental in overcoming these obstacles.
Ultimately, the launch of Farm Junction represents a significant step towards strengthening the agricultural sector in Lagos and potentially serves as a model for other regions facing similar challenges. By facilitating connections between farmers and consumers, this initiative has the potential to reduce food waste, improve food security, and empower farmers.
