The Edo State Government has partnered with Amo Farms and Heifer International to support women farmers in the livestock sector, aiming to improve poultry production, strengthen the value chain, and empower women through training, equipment support, and improved market access.
The collaboration was highlighted during an event held at Obayantor Community in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area as part of activities marking International Women’s Day, themed “Scaling Innovation through Sustainable Partnership.” The programme brought together government officials, development partners and stakeholders in the livestock sector to reinforce support for women-led agricultural initiatives in the state.
Speaking at the event, the Coordinator of the Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Okpebholo Edesili Anani, who was represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, said the state government recognises the importance of empowering women farmers to improve livelihoods and strengthen food systems.
She commended Heifer International for its work in supporting smallholder farmers through sustainable agricultural practices and targeted empowerment programmes.
“Edo State values this partnership, including the poultry processing facility, as it develops Heifer and private sector collaborations to strengthen market access, create jobs, and grow our poultry value chain,” Abdallah said.
The Commissioner for Livestock Development, Engr. (Prof.) Ignatius Ikpomwonsa Omorodion, noted that the partnership aligns with the broader goal of boosting livestock productivity and creating economic opportunities within the poultry sector.
According to him, the Sen. Monday Okpebholo-led administration remains committed to supporting innovations that can transform the livestock industry and improve the livelihoods of farmers across the state.
“The government has pledged to secure the plant and continuously provide the necessary support to ensure its sustainability,” Omorodion stated, adding that such collaborations demonstrate Edo State’s proactive approach to strengthening the livestock sector.
President and Chief Executive Officer of Heifer International, Surita Sandosham, also expressed appreciation to the Edo State Government for sustaining the partnership with Heifer and Amo Farms.
She noted that partnerships between governments, development organisations and the private sector are essential for tackling hunger and poverty while expanding opportunities for smallholder farmers, particularly women.
“We appreciate the innovation and the commitment shown by the Edo State Government, and we hope to see continued progress as this partnership grows,” Sandosham said.
The Facility Manager of Amo Farms, Mr. Yunusa Alaba, revealed that approximately 56,000 poultry farmers have already been profiled through the Heifer-Amo partnership, creating opportunities for training, mentoring and broader participation in the poultry value chain.
A major highlight of the event was the inspection of a custom-made de-feathering machine with a capacity to process 50 birds daily. The equipment was later presented to members of women cooperative groups as part of efforts to improve efficiency and productivity in poultry processing.
