Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has launched an ambitious Goat Rearing Initiative Programme, distributing 40,000 goats to 3,610 women in a bid to boost livestock production and economic empowerment.
Speaking at the event in Daura Local Government Area, Governor Radda described the initiative as a transformational step aimed at making Katsina a major hub for livestock farming in Nigeria.
Programme Details:
- The N5.7 billion initiative is targeted at women farmers, facilitated through the Ministry of Women Affairs and community-level committees.
- Each beneficiary receives four goats (one male and three females), while one large-scale farmer per ward gets 50 goats to enhance breeding and sustainability.
- Beneficiaries will repay in kind by returning an equal number of animals after a specified period.
Training & Infrastructure Development:
- The government will provide training in modern livestock management, covering animal nutrition, health management, and sustainable farming techniques.
- A goat farm will be established in Rimi Local Government for genetic improvement, high milk production, manure processing, and breeding.
- Financial support and affordable funding options will be made available to help farmers scale up their businesses.
Commitment to Agricultural Growth:
Governor Radda emphasized the transparency of the selection process, ensuring that beneficiaries were chosen without political interference across 361 wards in the state.
He expressed optimism that the initiative would transform Katsina’s agricultural sector, create economic opportunities, and position the state as a leader in livestock production.
The State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hadiza Yar’adua, hailed the programme as a strategic intervention to uplift women and improve economic sustainability in the state.
