Enugu State Government Pledges Support to American Investors for Agricultural Mechanization

• Jan 5, 2024
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The Enugu State Government has affirmed its commitment to assist American investors in their efforts to bring agricultural mechanization to the state. Professor Ebere Onyia, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), conveyed this assurance during a meeting with a delegation from Praxis Africa, a U.S.-based company, and its Nigerian partners, IAEGO Agro Ventures, at the Government House in Enugu.

Highlighting the state's dedication to bankable projects across various sectors, Professor Onyia stated that Enugu is keen on substantial investments in agriculture, intending to develop large clusters in areas where the state has a comparative advantage. He expressed hope that the collaboration with IAEGO would significantly enhance agriculture in the state, emphasizing the government's unwavering support throughout the process.

The traditional ruler of Nara Unateze and Chairman of IAEGO Agro Ventures, Igwe Ifeanyi Ogbu, informed the SSG that Praxis Africa, in partnership with their organization, is exploring opportunities to bolster agriculture in Enugu. The focus includes substantial investments in mechanization and funding for farm activities across all 17 local government areas.

Nara Unateze is designated as the pilot location for this initiative, with plans to expand to neighboring communities and eventually cover the entire state. Igwe Ogbu emphasized the positive impact that mechanization, facilitated by Praxis Africa through IAEGO, would have on agriculture in Enugu. The initiative aims to provide equipment for farmers, enabling them to hire and enhance productivity.

Dr. Delore Zimmerman, Founder/President of Praxis Africa, shared insights into the company's areas of investment, expressing confidence that the partnership would yield significant results for Enugu State and Nigeria. He highlighted Praxis Africa's focus on bringing more mechanization and funding to agriculture, emphasizing the company's commitment to helping modernize agriculture.

Enugu State Commissioner for Agriculture, Chief Patrick Ugwu, welcomed the investors and assured them of the government's full cooperation in alignment with Governor Peter Mba's agricultural policies. The move was celebrated by local farmers, with one farmer, Mr. Kelvin Eya, expressing optimism that mechanization would address various challenges hindering massive agricultural output.

After an inspection tour of the Ojoroko rice cultivation site in Nara, Nkanu East Local Government Area, Dr. Zimmerman expressed satisfaction with the progress and potential impact of the investment. The collaborative effort between the Enugu State Government and Praxis Africa through IAEGO Agro Ventures is poised to bring positive transformation to the agricultural landscape in the state.