The World Bank and the Nigerian government has began the disbursement of funds to 140 communities across the 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Plateau State to help tackle climate change and boost agricultural yields.
Country Director of World Bank in Nigeria said the pilot scheme of the project would start with ten communities, and the funds will be disbursed through the World Bank’s Financed Agro-Climate Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscape (ACReSAL) project.
“As you know, desertification and climate change are already threatening agriculture, which is a key source of livelihood of the people of Plateau”, Ndiame Diop said on on Thursday, January 16, 2025, in Jos, the state capital, during the formal disbursement of the funds to the benefiting communities.
According to him, the initiative is part of the Community Revolving Fund (CRF) under the ACReSAL project.
“This investment is part of ACReSAL complements, a range of investments around land and water management within the comprehensive framework around a 10-year watershed management plan”, the Country Director said.
Diop also said that the CRF, unlike a grant, will operate as a loan program designed to support community groups in implementing community climate-resilient initiatives.
“This financial support is specifically targeted toward ACReSAL registered Community Interest Groups across the state in targeted watershed”, he stated.
He also hinted at the provision of 20 tractors and other farming inputs to the state as part of the project initiative aimed at tackling poverty and promoting food security in the state.
Governor of the state, Caleb Mutfwang commended the World Bank for the choice of Plateau State to implement the project, particularly in tackling climate change and promoting dry-season farming.
“No doubt, (it) would empower local communities in the state to implement innovative and crucial strategies toward addressing climate change and ensuring food security in the state”, he said.
He warned the beneficiaries to ensure good use of the funds, adding that anyone caught violating the rules of engagement will attract sanctions.
“We will make sure we audit every project and ensure that we are on the road to success”, he said.
“The first rule is that this is money you will pay back, so take that into your mind and I will charge the men in these groups not to marry additional wives.
“You are the first fruits. You are the first born of this scheme. If you succeed, it means that the story of poverty on the Plateau will turn around.
“Today, we are taking a significant step forward by disbursing funds that will enable our farmers to invest in better farming techniques and adopt climate-smart practices.”
“I don’t know how these communities were selected because, I didn’t interfere. We allowed the project coordinator and his team to select these communities based on the established criteria”, the Governor posited.
While promising strict monitoring of the project, he said the ACReSAL project is not just about funding; it entails empowering communities to adapt to climate change and thrive, despite the challenges faced.
The Community Revolving Fund, which was established as part of the ACReSAL initiative, aims to provide financial support to local farmers and agricultural cooperatives.
The Governor also announced the disbursement of over $250,000 to various community groups across the state. This funding is expected to facilitate access to credit for farmers, enabling them to purchase necessary inputs and equipment.
Task Team Leader for the World Bank’s Agro Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, Chief Dr. Joy Iganya Agene, appealed to beneficiaries of the community revolving funds not to misuse the opportunity meant to improve their lives.
Dr. Agene emphasized the importance of responsible management and utilization of the funds provided to local communities. She highlighted that these funds are designed to support agricultural development, improve livelihoods, and foster economic stability in vulnerable areas.
However, she cautioned that mismanagement or misuse of these resources could jeopardize the project’s objectives and the future availability of funding.
“Beneficiaries must understand that these funds are not a grant but a revolving resource intended to benefit the entire community,” Dr. Agene stated.
She outlined several key responsibilities for beneficiaries, including maintaining accurate records of fund usage, ensuring equitable access to resources, and engaging in regular community meetings to discuss fund management.
She also stressed the importance of accountability and the need for beneficiaries to report any challenges or issues they encounter in the implementation of the project.
National Project Coordinator for ACReSAL, Abdulhamid Umar emphasized on the importance of community involvement in the project.
“These funds are not just financial assistance; they represent an opportunity for communities to take charge of their agricultural futures, he said.
“By investing in local initiatives, we can build resilience against climate change and ensure food security for generations to come”, Mr. Umar enumerated.
He encouraged the communities to work collaboratively and share knowledge to maximize the benefits of the project.
The National Project Coordinator reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting agricultural development in Nigeria.
“Together, we can build a sustainable future for our farmers and ensure that they thrive in the face of adversity,” he said.
The ACReSAL project is expected to make a lasting impact on the agricultural landscape of Plateau State, paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable approach to farming.
Representatives from various farming communities expressed their gratitude for the support, highlighting the positive impact that the funds will have on their agricultural activities.
“This funding will help us improve our yields and ensure that we can feed our families and communities,” said Mary Ndam, a local farmer and member of a cooperative.
Highlight of the occasion was the commissioning of 20 tractors to boost agricultural fields.