By Israel Adamu, Jos
The Plateau State Government launched a new program yesterday aimed at enhancing agricultural marketing and strengthening food security across the state. The sensitization program, which kicked off in Shendam and Langtang, will run through November 14, 2024.
The initiative seeks to educate and empower farmers in Plateau State’s federal constituencies, with a focus on expanding access to both local and international markets for Plateau’s agricultural produce.
Ezekiel Davou, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Commodity Marketing and Food Security, led the program’s launch, emphasizing its role in transforming the agricultural sector. Davou noted that this initiative will support smallholder farmers by facilitating access to post-harvest processes, financial resources, and broader markets, crucial for maximizing the potential of their produce. This, he explained, will foster a more sustainable economic environment for both the farmers and the state.
As part of the program, the Plateau State Government has established the Plateau Commodity Marketing Company Limited (PLACOM), with Davou as the coordinator. PLACOM’s objectives include providing access to finance, managing post-harvest logistics, and connecting farmers to larger markets locally and internationally.
According to Davou, “The Plateau State Government, under Governor Caleb Mutfwang, has launched a Special Purpose Vehicle—the Plateau Commodity Marketing Company Limited (PLACOM)—to lead the marketing of Plateau State’s produce for both local and international markets. This company will not only purchase produce from farmers at harvest but will also manage post-harvest processes, facilitate access to finance, and connect farmers with broader markets, creating transformative opportunities for smallholder farmers and the state’s economy.”
Plateau State Commissioner for Agriculture, Samson Bugama, underscored the program’s significance, reiterating the government’s commitment to improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. He praised PLACOM as a transformative initiative that will empower farmers with the tools to boost productivity and profitability.
Bugama added, “This initiative is expected to significantly impact both the local economy and food security, with the potential to link Plateau’s agricultural products to broader markets.”
