News Wings

Tag: Commissioner for Agriculture

  • UN Climate Week Kicks Off in Addis Ababa to Boost Solutions and Speed Up Real-World Climate Actions

    UN Climate Week Kicks Off in Addis Ababa to Boost Solutions and Speed Up Real-World Climate Actions

    …Outcomes to feed into Africa Climate Summit and COP30 UN Climate Conference in the Amazon this November

    Today marks the start of Climate Week – a milestone United Nations event to boost real-world climate solutions, and advance crucial climate issues, ahead the COP30 global climate conference in Brazil, this November.

    Climate Week will bring together governments, financiers including development banks, businesses, civil society, and Indigenous Peoples, to help speed up delivery of pledges and climate actions on the ground, in African countries and around the world.

    Organized by UN Climate Change and hosted by the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Climate Week will feed into the second Africa Climate Summit next week – a major rallying point for African nations ahead of COP30 in Belém, Brazil.

    “We are at a vital moment in the world’s climate journey. Climate Week in Addis Ababa is a chance to share and scale up real-world solutions, and help spread the real-life benefits of climate action to more people across Africa and around the world: more resilient economies, more jobs, better health and quality of life, more secure and affordable clean energy for all,” said UN Climate Change Executive Secretary, Simon Stiell.

    “Climate Weeks aim to connect the international climate process to people’s daily lives and to real economies. At the heart of our programme is the Implementation Forum (3-4 Sept) — bringing together negotiators with implementers in governments, financiers, businesses, civil society, and Indigenous Peoples,” said UN Climate Change Deputy Executive Secretary, Noura Hamladji.

    With a strong focus on investment and collaboration, new Implementation Labs will focus on key challenges and opportunities, including in adaptation finance, strengthening public-private sector partnerships, scaling up agricultural, forest and food-related climate actions, and empowering communities, among many others.

    A Stepping Stone for the Africa Climate Summit and COP30

    The Climate Week is global in scope, but its solutions are deeply relevant to Agenda 2063 – Africa’s vision for inclusive growth, sustainability, and resilience. Climate Week in Addis Ababa has been deliberately timed to take place just ahead of the Africa Climate Summit 2 (ACS2), hosted in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from 8-10 September 2025.

    The Summit marks a crucial moment for the continent’s climate leadership, where African leaders will advance work on climate finance, adaptation, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, green growth and community empowerment, ahead of COP30.  

    Ethiopia’s Minister of Planning and Development, Fitsum Assefa, said: “This strategic alignment ensures that Africa’s climate priorities do not remain regional aspirations but are elevated into the global agenda. What we build in Addis Ababa through both the Africa Climate Summit 2 and Climate Week will strengthen implementation, unlock finance, and set the stage for COP30 and beyond. Together, these moments demonstrate that climate solutions must be locally rooted yet globally resonant if we are to build a sustainable future for all.”

    “By strategically connecting Climate Week, the Climate Change and Development Conference in Africa, and the Second Africa Climate Summit, we establish a unified platform that turns dialogue into practical, scalable climate solutions and funding, fostering a resilient and green continent,” said Mosses Vilakati, Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment, African Union Commission.

    The key outcomes of the Climate Week, including official statements linking to the Africa Climate Summit from UN Climate Change and the Government of Ethiopia, will be shared by news release in the afternoon of Thursday 4 Sept (Addis time) in English, Arabic and French, and posted on the UNFCCC website: www.unfccc.int

    The Opening Ceremony & Start of the Implementation Forum (3 Sept, 09:30h EAT) will be livestreamed in English, French et Arabic with speakers to include:

    1. H.E. Dr. Fitsum Assefa, Minister of Planning and Development of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

    2. H.E. Taye Atske Selassie, President of Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia  

    3. Ms. Noura Hamladji, Deputy Executive Secretary UNFCCC

    The Closing Ceremony (4 Sept, 16:00h EAT) will be livestreamed in English, French, Arabic, with speakers to include:

    1. H.E. Dr. Fitsum Assefa, Minister of Planning and Development of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

    2. Mr. Simon Stiell, UN Climate Change Executive Secretary

  • Historic Moment for Africa as the African Space Agency is Officially Inaugurated

    Historic Moment for Africa as the African Space Agency is Officially Inaugurated

    On Sunday, April 20, 2025, Africa marked a historic milestone with the official inauguration of the African Space Agency (AfSA) during the NewSpace Africa Conference, held in Cairo, Egypt. The ceremony brought together a distinguished assembly of dignitaries from across the world, including ministers, ambassadors, and representatives of leading global space institutions. This landmark event signifies Africa’s bold step into a future where space exploration and innovation play a critical role in the continent’s sustainable development and global influence.

    Dr. Valanathan Munsami, former CEO of the South African National Space Agency (SANSA) and Chair of the African Union Space Working Group, set the tone for the inauguration with a powerful keynote address. Reflecting on the journey toward the establishment of the African Space Policy and Strategy, Dr. Munsami emphasized Africa’s unique opportunity to shape its future in the global space sector through unity, innovation, and sustainable growth.

    The event underscored the strong international support for Africa’s space ambitions, with goodwill messages delivered by senior figures from major space agencies. Marco Ferrazzani of the European Space Agency (ESA), Karen Feldstein of NASA, H.E. Salem Butti Salem Al Qubaisi of the UAE Space Agency, Jean-Marc Astorg of CNES (France), Mr. Kikuchi Koichi of JAXA (Japan), Dr. Driss El-Hadani of UNOOSA, and Mr. Luca Maria Salamone of the Italian Space Agency each reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with Africa in its space endeavors.

    National heads of space agencies from Gabon, Kenya, Nigeria, Angola, and Egypt delivered remarks that highlighted a strong regional commitment to collaborative space development. Their presence and speeches symbolized a united continental approach to space exploration and technology, reinforcing the vision of Africa working as one to unlock its full potential in the space economy.

    A memorable moment of the ceremony was the unveiling of the African Space Agency’s official logo, a powerful symbol of unity and aspiration. The occasion also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between AfSA and the European Space Agency. To commemorate the new partnership, the ESA presented AfSA with a special gift: a flag that had traveled to space — a profound gesture signifying trust, solidarity, and a shared future in space exploration.

    Political leaders further strengthened the event’s significance with strong messages of support. H.E. Mr. Mário Augusto da Silva Oliveira, Angola’s Minister of Telecommunications, Information Technology, and Social Communication, Dr. Badr Abdelatty, Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration, and Egyptian Affairs, and H.E. Mr. Moses Vilakati, Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment at the African Union Commission (AUC), all reiterated the political will behind Africa’s space program. Their addresses pointed to a continental determination to harness space technology for economic, educational, environmental, and societal transformation.

    The welcome address was delivered by H.E. Dr. Tidiane Ouattara, President of the African Space Council, who framed the agency’s inauguration as not just the birth of an institution, but the start of a new era for Africa. Representing the Egyptian government, H.E. Ayman Ashour, Egypt’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, delivered a keynote address on behalf of Prime Minister H.E. Prof. Dr. Mostafa Madbouly. He emphasized the strategic importance of hosting the African Space Agency in Egypt and how it signifies Africa’s aspirations to be at the forefront of global scientific and technological innovation.

    The inauguration culminated in a symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by Dr. Temidayo Oniosun, Managing Director of Space in Africa. This act officially declared the African Space Agency operational, cementing Africa’s commitment to achieving space sovereignty and fostering continental integration through science and technology.

    The launch of the African Space Agency is more than just an administrative achievement; it is a defining moment in Africa’s journey toward self-reliance, innovation, and leadership on the global stage. It affirms the continent’s readiness to use space science as a catalyst for development, addressing challenges such as climate change, resource management, disaster response, agriculture, and education, while inspiring future generations to dream beyond borders.

    With the inauguration of AfSA, Africa steps confidently into the future, poised to carve out a space for itself among the stars.

  • Dangote Food Intervention Programme train lands in Kwara, donates 25,000 bags of rice to residents

    Dangote Food Intervention Programme train lands in Kwara, donates 25,000 bags of rice to residents

    The Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) has extended its Food Intervention Programme to Kwara State with 25,000 bags of 10kg rice set to be distributed across 16 local government areas in three days.

    The ADF team led by the Group General Manager Human Resources, Dangote Cement PLC, Ahmed Gobir, was received by the Kwara State governor, Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman, represented by his deputy, Kayode Alabi, at the Ministry of Agriculture, Ilorin, the Kwara State capital Tuesday, 25th March, 2025.

    Mr Alabi expressed that the unwavering commitment of the Chairman of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Mr Aliko Dangote, in alleviating the suffering of the vulnerable is a great inspiration and one that is worth emulation.

    The deputy governor assured that “The rice, which will be distributed to indigent families across the state, comes at a crucial time, as our Muslim brothers and sisters observe the sacred month of Ramadan and our Christian brothers and sisters are in the season of Lent. It is an act of compassion that will provide much-needed relief to those who are fasting and in need.

    “I would like to take this opportunity to commend the Aliko Dangote Foundation for this kind and selfless contribution. This gesture not only complements the ongoing efforts of the Kwara State Government to support vulnerable communities, but it also demonstrates the power of partnership between the public and private sectors in lifting our people out of hardship.

    “We remain deeply grateful for the Dangote Foundation’s continued support for indigent people across the country. This generosity serves as a reminder of the importance of corporate social responsibility and the critical role philanthropists play in addressing poverty and hardship.

    “I encourage other individuals and corporations to follow in the footsteps of the Dangote Foundation and similar bodies, as we work together to build a better, more inclusive society for all,” he said.

    Malam Gobir, who represented the Chairman of the Aliko Foundation, stated that the ADF decided to partner with state government in the 2025 food intervention programme distribution to foster relationship between the private and public stakeholders, noting that out of the one million bags of rice for the 774 local government areas of the federation, Kwara State has received 25,000 bags for its 16 local governments which is aimed at cushioning the effect of economic hardship.

    “The ADF is the philanthropic effort of Mr Aliko Dangote and has been consistent in delivering different humanitarian projects across the federation.

    “This is the second year in a row that the ADF is donating one million bags of 10kg rice worth N16bn for the 36 states and the FCT.

    “This is not just a gesture of charity; it is a demonstration of our commitment to set Nigerians and Africans up for success, it is a testament to further foster the Aliko Dangote Foundation’s four-pillar goal in nutrition, health, education and empowerment. By providing these bags of rice, we aim to alleviate the immediate hunger and hardship experienced by many and contribute to the broader goal of food security in Kwara State and Nigeria at large.

    “As we move forward, the Aliko Dangote Foundation remains committed to identifying and addressing the pressing needs of our communities. We will continue to work tirelessly to support vulnerable populations, create opportunities for growth and development, and build a brighter future for all Nigerians.”

    While giving the vote of thanks, the Commissioner for Agriculture, AbdulAfeez Abolore, described the event as “historic,” adding that “the gesture of the Chairman of ADF is in consonance with the instruction of the Holy Book. With the Christians and Muslims observing Lent and Ramadan in this holy month, together with the continuous efforts of the Kwara State government, this will go a long way in solving some food deficit problems.”

  • Olam Agri in Nigeria Partners Kwara State Government to Empower Agri-Extension Workers

    Olam Agri in Nigeria Partners Kwara State Government to Empower Agri-Extension Workers

    In collaboration with the Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture, Olam Agri in Nigeria’s Integrated Feed & Protein Business has launched a 2-day Agri-Extension Capacity Building Workshop to empower agricultural extension agents and officers in Kwara State. This vital initiative occurred in Ilorin on July 15 and 16, 2024.

    The workshop provided a platform for equipping extension agents with practical knowledge and skills to support farmers effectively which is a significant stride towards the overall development of the agricultural sector in Kwara State. Top-ranking officials from the state government comprising Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, Commissioner for Agriculture; Mrs. Funke Sokoya, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture; Afolabi Temple, Press Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, and other directors provided support at the workshop. Overall, a total of 118 extension officers were trained.

    Mr Seyi Adesomi, Vice President of Manufacturing & Technical Services at Olam Agri, stressed the importance of this empowerment, stating, “This workshop equips extension agents with the necessary skills to train farmers on essential practices like sustainable agriculture, post-harvest loss reduction, and farm mechanization.”  He noted that the focus on soybean production aligns with Olam Agri’s commitment to supporting the growth of this crucial crop in Nigeria.

    Mrs Oloruntoyosi Thomas, Kwara State Commissioner for Agriculture, reiterated the state government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring food security and promoting sustainable practices. She stated, “We are committed to supporting our agricultural extension agents, who are critical in empowering our farmers. This workshop provides them with the necessary tools and knowledge to deliver effective extension services, particularly in soybean production.”  

    In addition to these efforts, Olam Agri is set to commission a new soybean crushing facility in Kwara State in the coming months. This facility will play a crucial role in boosting the local soybean processing capacity, creating jobs, and supporting the agricultural value chain in Kwara State, underscoring Olam Agri’s commitment to advancing agricultural development and economic growth in the region.

  • GB Foods celebrates 50 Years of Investing in Africa

    GB Foods celebrates 50 Years of Investing in Africa

    …Recommits Mission to Build Sustainable Food Ecosystem

    GB Foods Africa, a leading culinary and global manufacturing company, celebrated its 50th anniversary grand event in Lagos, Nigeria. The event, themed “Cooking Together: A Delicious Future for Nigeria and Africa,” brought together government officials, business leaders, and other stakeholders to celebrate the company’s past achievements and discuss its vision for the future.

    GB Foods’ journey in Africa began in 1973 when the company established its first factory in Nigeria. Today, GB Foods has operations in 38 African countries and employs over 5,000 people. The company produces a wide range of food products, including mayonnaise, tomato paste, bouillon cubes, and pasta.

    Mr. Vicenç Bosch, CEO of GB Foods Africa, highlighted the company’s commitment to Africa and its people. He said, “GB Foods is not just about business, it is about impact. Our roots are grounded within the communities we serve – creating jobs, fostering growth, and uplifting lives. Furthermore, despite all our successes, this is only the beginning of the next fifty years. When the next generation celebrates our 100th anniversary in Africa, they will talk about what we did, and more importantly how we made it.”

     “GB Foods is in Africa for Africa. We believe that growth is not a goal, but a means to provide the right returns to our shareholders and the communities we operate in. This is only the beginning of our doubling down on our sustainability agenda and our commitment to producing delicious, affordable, and healthy foods attuned to local tastes. Most importantly, this is only the beginning of us leveraging backwards integration to expand local agriculture and industrial ecosystems to create more jobs in Africa. We believe that by doing the right thing, we can make a difference.” He continued.

    The exclusive anniversary event was well attended by eminent personalities, government officials, and industry leaders including H.E. Juan Ignacio Sell, the Ambassador of Spain to Nigeria; Mr Kamar Bakrin, CEO of the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC); Ms Aisha Rimi, CEO of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC); Mr Bolu Owotomo, Commissioner for Agriculture, Ogun State; and Dr Mustapha Ayo Popoola, the Special Adviser to the Minister of Agriculture, amongst others.

    “GB Foods has been investing in Africa for 50 years, and we are proud of the role we have played in helping to develop the continent’s food industry”, said Mr Vincent Egbe, Managing Director of GB Foods Nigeria in his opening remarks. “When GB Foods first came to Africa 50 years ago, we had a simple vision: to provide high-quality, affordable food to African consumers. We also knew that we could not achieve this vision alone. Over the past 50 years, we have worked with our partners to build a strong and vibrant food industry in Africa. We are committed to continuing to invest in Africa and to working with our partners to create a sustainable food system for the continent. We believe that Africa’s food industry has the potential to be a major driver of economic growth and development.”

    During the event, GB Foods officially announced the launch of new 3.2L jars for the Bama and Jago mayonnaise brands. These new jars are designed to meet the needs of African consumers, who often buy food in bulk. They are also more affordable than smaller jars, making them a more accessible option for low-income families. In addition, Vicenç Bosch announced that in 2024, GB Foods will begin the transformation of their factories in Nigeria into solar power, the first for the company.

    H.E. Juan Ignacio Sell, the Ambassador of Spain to Nigeria, delivered a heartfelt goodwill message to the company. He said, “GB Foods leads the way in long-term commitment to transparent dialogue with the authorities, in social responsibility with local communities, and in excellence in every aspect of what they do. Today we are celebrating a fifty-year record in Africa that proves it. GB Foods embodies what is best to show our brand as a nation. Congratulations to the GB Foods family for their success story born out of determination, foresight, competence, and commitment.”

    GB Foods is committed to investing in Africa and to working with its partners to create a sustainable food ecosystem for the continent. The company has several initiatives in place to support food security, including sourcing raw materials locally to support African farmers and rural communities, investing in research and development to develop new products that meet the needs of African consumers, and providing nutrition education to consumers through its products and marketing campaigns. This mission was well encapsulated during the event which showcased GB Foods’ operations throughout five decades and in its priorities for the journey ahead.

    The event concluded with a gala dinner, where guests enjoyed a variety of dishes made with GB Foods products and entertainment from Nigerian artists. As GB Foods celebrates its 50th anniversary, a milestone achievement, the company reiterated its commitment to continuing to invest in Africa and to working with its partners to create a delicious future for the continent.

  • Kaduna State Government lauds Arla Foods on Its Investment in the Local Dairy Sector

    Kaduna State Government lauds Arla Foods on Its Investment in the Local Dairy Sector

    The Kaduna State Government has commended the management of Arla Foods Nigeria for its huge investment on the Arla Farm project which would contribute to the sustainable development and improvement of milk and dairy production in Nigeria.

    This was the submission of top government officials in separate remarks during the visit of the delegation to Arla Farm on Saturday, October 21, 2023 at Damau, Kaduna State.

    While welcoming the guests, Managing Director, Arla Foods Nigeria, Peder Pedersen described the visit of Kaduna State Government delegation as a strong validation of its support  and commitment towards the success of the project noting that the company is committed to leading the way on sustainable dairy farming and contributing to the development of the local dairy industry.

    Pedersen stated that the company is quite optimistic that Nigeria can attain self-sufficiency in milk production provided the right investments and partnerships are made.

    Speaking during the tour of facility at the farm, Senior Manager, Raw Milk Supply and Production, Mr. Snorri Sigurdsson stated that the company is committed to making Kaduna State the number one destination for dairy milk production in Nigeria.

    Also speaking at the occasion, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Kaduna State, Murtala Dabo noted that he is highly impressed with the progress recorded at the Arla Farm stating that the facility available at the farm is a  representation of livestock production at its peak.

    Dabo explained that with the kind of improved dairy farming practice and technology introduced on the farm as well as plans for knowledge transfer to local farmers, milk production would be scaled up thereby helping Nigeria to achieve self-sufficiency.

    He stated that with the eventual take-off of the Damau Household Milk Farm project within the axis, Kaduna state would soon become a hub for milk production in Nigeria.

    According to him, the support of Kaduna State Government to the project underscores its commitment to providing lasting solution to the issue of farmer/herders clashes currently ravaging the country.

    “With this development, you can sedentarized the cows. This is a typical example of how you keep your cow, give them the appropriate feeds resulting in high yield. You can see the kind of cow specie(Danish Holstein) the company brought to Nigeria. While you can get 40 litres of milk in a day from this specie(Danish Holstein), you can only get 3 litres of milk from our local cows. The doubling effect alone is huge. It is really exciting and it shows what technology does,” he said.

    In her remarks, Commissioner for Business, Innovation and Technology, Kaduna State, Patience Fakai revealed that the project would certainly have big impact on the Kaduna State economy given that it offers opportunities to train the youth and  create job opportunities for the people.

    On his part, Special Adviser on Investment and Promotion to Kaduna State Governor, Sabiu Sani equally stated that he is extremely satisfied with the quality of the facilities in place and Arla’s commitment  toward the development of the enterprise.

    Sani stressed that the facility would serve as a supporting infrastructure for the Damau Household Milk Farm project that the government intends to embark upon soon.

    According to him, 1000 local Fulani herdsmen recruited by the Kaduna State Government will be settled at the Damau Household Milk Farm with access  to top-notch facilities and access to market for their products.

    He noted that the setting up of this enterprise has only demonstrated best practice but also provided guidance for dairy development in Nigeria.

    In her remarks, Managing Director, Kaduna Markets Development And Management Company, Tamar Nandul noted that the Kaduna state government is satisfied with the partnership as well as the Arla’s commitment toward the realization of the project.

    Nandul disclosed that the planned investment of additional $20 million by the company for the construction of a milk processing plant on the farm is a great testament to the viability of the project.

    She stressed that the state government would continue to do its best to support the success of the project adding that N15billion has been earmarked  by Kaduna Markets Development And Management Company in partnership with Central Bank of Nigeria to develop infrastructure needed around the farm.