As part of initiatives by the Kwara State government to enhance agricultural production and address food insecurity, approximately 10,000 farmers have received Brazilian Jumbo cashew seedlings from the non-government organization Jife Foundation.
The distribution event, themed “Planting the Tree of Generational Wealth,” took place at Iludun-Oro Anglican Girls’ College in Irepodun Local Government Area.
Speaking at the event, the founder, Mr. Deji Adeleke, explained that the goal was to empower 10,000 households with Brazilian jumbo cashew seedlings to boost commerce in the local area and promote wealth creation through innovative agripreneurs. He stated that the Foundation, officially launched at the event, aims to strategically address deficits in youth leadership, technology, education, and innovative agripreneurship.
“The distribution of cashew seedlings, following Jife Foundation’s computer skills empowerment program, will broaden opportunities for youth in the local government, promoting commerce on a larger scale,” said Mr. Adeleke.
Co-founder Mrs. Ife Adeleke encouraged beneficiaries to form cashew cooperatives to maximize the benefits of the initiative. She highlighted the potential of Brazilian jumbo cashews, which can produce three times annually after three years of nurturing, to generate significant economic benefits.
“Mass production of cashews will inject more money into the community, promote shared prosperity, and attract factories to the area,” Mrs. Adeleke added.
Kwara State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, representing Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, praised the Foundation for its foresight and commitment to strengthening farmers’ capacities.
Representatives of the farmers, Mrs. Victoria Dada and Mr. Olawuyi Olabode, assured the Foundation of their dedication to the program’s success, stating, “We will plant the seedlings with enthusiasm, expecting bountiful harvests after three years.”
