Ekiti State Partners With USDA To Boost Cashew Production, Market Access

News in Brief: - Ekiti state is partnering with the USDA to enhance cashew production and market access for farmers. - The initiative involves distributing subsidised seedlings and training on improved farming practices. Nigeria's Ekiti state is partnering with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to improve cashew production and market access for cashew farmers. The initiative involves distributing subsidised polyclonal cashew seedlings to farmers, along with training on improved harvesting and post-harvest techniques. The project, known as PRO-Cashew, is a five-year program aimed at aiding cashew farmers in several African nations, including Nigeria. Ekiti State is the first Nigerian sub-region to participate, a news report claims. This is owing to the state having established a dedicated polyclonal cashew seedling garden in June 2023. Meantime, the state's government revealed its committment to ensuring the program has a long-term impact, aiming to achieve self-sufficiency in polyclonal cashew seedling production beyond the USDA's involvement. The ultimate goal is to leverage research and development to make Ekiti a leading cashew producer within a few years. Additionally, to encourage participation, the government will subsidise the cost of seedlings by 50%. Interested farmers are encouraged to contact the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security's Tree Crops Department for details. To be eligible, farms must be located within Ekiti State, and owners must be able to provide necessary farm details for proper after-sales support and program success.