The Lagos State Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs has empowered fruit and vegetable sellers in Igando-Ikotun Local Council Development Area to reduce post-harvest loss.
Speaking on the benefits of the initiative, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs, said that they were empowered with generating sets, fruit blenders, and refrigerators.
Bolarinwa noted that the one-day empowerment training program organized in partnership with Igando Ikotun Local Council Development Area was “Reduction of Post-Harvest Losses in Fruits and Vegetables in Lagos State.”
She added that the training was aimed at adding value to the traders’ sales and well-being.
Bolarinwa who was represented by Ms. Olajumoke Ola, a Director in the ministry, commended the traders for their large turn out adding that government would continue to support them.
She said the state government had observed that the community was doing a lot on fruits and vegetables which brought about the training and empowerment for the traders in the area.
“We observed that you are in the midst of many people in this area, so we discussed with the HOD Agriculture in the council and we came up with this initiative.
“We aim to improve people’s livelihood by reducing wastage in fruits.
“The government is also working toward organizing more training which will be useful for you in managing your business.
“I urge you all to utilize this opportunity as it will add value to your market.
“Aside from the fact that this will curb wastage, these fruits will also be of good benefits to the body,” she said.
Mrs. Mojisola Badmus, the Vice Chairman, Igando-Ikotun LCDA, commended the state government and the council boss for organizing the training.
Badmus added that it would help improve the livelihood of the traders.
“We sell perishable goods so there is a need to address wastage. This initiative is from the Lagos State Government and I commend Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu for the support,” she said.
Badmus said the government both at state and local levels was aware of the people’s plight and would continue to do everything possible to improve their livelihood.
Mr. Musefiu Ayantoye, Market Leader for the Fruits and Vegetables Sellers Association at Igando-Ikotun LCDA, commended the government for the initiative noting that it was a good development for members.
Ayantoye urged the members to key into the initiative as it would go a long way in improving their sales and livelihood.
Mrs. Iswat Isiaka, the Iyaloja, Fruits, and Vegetables Sellers Association, also lauded the initiative.
Isiaka described it as the first of its kind while urging for more that would improve the value chain.
