Benue Governor Hyacinth Alia Invests in Climate-Smart Farming, Distributes Tractors

News in Brief: - Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue state has launched a program to support climate-smart agriculture in the region. - The initiative provides 33 tractors and ₦380 million in funding to farmers and community groups. Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue state has inaugurated a major initiative to support agriculture in the region. This was revealed in a statement released by his chief press secretary, Tersoo Kula, recently. The initiative provides both equipment and funding to bolster climate-resilient agricultural practices. A total of 33 new tractors were unveiled by Governor Alia and distributed to farmers across Benue State. [caption id="attachment_11009" align="aligncenter" width="696"] Some of the beneficiaries of the scheme in a group photograph with Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Iormem Alia[/caption] Also, the sum of ₦380 million was disbursed to community interest groups. These funds are designated for climate-smart agricultural activities. This project is under the Community Revolving Fund (CRF) scheme of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) programme, which represents a broader effort to support Benue's agricultural sector. Governor Alia has reportedly noted the programme's role in strengthening institutions and implementing initiatives to mitigate the environmental impacts of climate change. Other key areas of focus for the programme, include supporting landscape management, enhancing community livelihoods, while building stronger institutional frameworks. The governor stressed the importance of utilising the resources effectively, stating that the tractors are expected to benefit over 33,000 households in the state. It is expected to significantly benefit local communities like Wurukum, North Bank, Adeke, Mbagbera, Branch Atser, and Mbayongu.