The Enugu State government collaborates with Prof. Poncho Ortega .S. Agricultural Consulting USA on several agricultural initiatives, particularly focusing on the development of Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SPAZ) in the state. This initiative aims to enhance livestock farming and commercial agriculture, food production, and rural economic development across Enugu’s three senatorial zones. The project is designed to improve the livelihoods of farmers and create investment opportunities in Agro-industrialization.
These collaborative efforts are part of a broader strategy to utilize digital technologies in governance and enhance agricultural productivity, ultimately aligning with the state’s vision of eradicating poverty and promoting sustainable development.
Prof. Poncho Ortega .S. in his statement mentioned how to improve the livelihood of cattle in Enugu State, which he said that several initiatives can be implemented seeing some of the efforts made by the farmers in their own local capacity.
The Enugu State government plans to create these zones to enhance livestock production and processing. These zones will serve as hubs for poultry and livestock, facilitating increased productivity, technological advancements, and better market access for farmers.
On the 5th September 2024, a Team of personalities which includes State project Coordinator L-PRES Enugu, Dr Ifeyinwa Nnajieze, SPA to the Governor on Agriculture and Agro Industrialization Enugu state,Engr.Mike Ogbuekwe, Dr Ossai, Dr Obinna, Dr Enoch and the United State Agricultural Consultant, Prof. Poncho Ortega .S. were at Ugwuoba Cattle Market, New Gariki Cattle Market and Akwata Slaughterhouse in Ogbete Market. These site viewing is to collectively aim to boost productivity, ensure the health of cattle, and enhance the economic viability of livestock farming in the region.
The state is working closely with the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support project (L-PRES), a World Bank-assisted project, to lend support and complement the state government’s efforts around commercial livestock agriculture and value chain development .
