Ekiti State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) project has commenced its cluster formation exercise across all 16 Local Government Areas of the state. This initiative is designed to enhance livestock productivity, resilience, and commercialisation among farmers in the state.
Speaking at the launch event in Ikere Ekiti, the Value Chain Officer, L-PRES, Mrs Adenike Omoleye, underscored the importance of cluster formation in improving the livelihoods of livestock farmers. She explained that by operating in clusters, farmers can share resources, exchange knowledge, and adopt best practices, which collectively lead to increased productivity and profitability. Omoleye also analysed market trends and identified opportunities within the livestock value chain to address existing gaps and develop strategies for improvement.
She emphasised the need for on-site profiling of farmers to encourage participation, noting that the project will engage only groups operating within established clusters across livestock value chains, such as poultry, sheep/goats, pigs, and beef. Cooperative societies and existing groups will be restructured into clusters to ensure optimal collaboration and efficiency, she revealed.
Earlier, the Extension Officer, L-PRES, Mrs Olubunmi Ajayi, reiterated the project’s commitment to providing technical support to farmers. “Our team of experts will work closely with farmers to identify their needs and offer tailored solutions to enhance livestock production,” she said. Ajayi highlighted the importance of bringing farmers together to address common goals, challenges, and opportunities through surveys and collaborative discussions.
Adding his voice, the Animal Husbandry Officer, L-PRES, Mr Muyiwa Adelodun, called for the adoption of sustainable and environmentally friendly livestock production practices. He stressed that these practices are essential to securing the long-term viability of the livestock industry in Ekiti State.
The cluster formation exercise has begun in the South-Central District and will extend to the remaining LGAs in the coming weeks. The L-PRES project, a six-year initiative, aims to strengthen livestock production, build resilience, and boost commercialisation, ultimately transforming the livestock sector in Ekiti State.
Peoplesmind
