Governor Abba Yusuf launched the second phase of a women empowerment initiative on Tuesday under the Livestock Fattening Programme of the Kano Agro-Pastoral Development Project.

Worth N2.3 billion, the initiative aims to combat poverty and promote economic self-reliance, according to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Dawakin-Tofa, on Tuesday.

Mr Dawakin-Tofa said the programme involved the distribution of livestock to women across the 44 local government areas. He said each beneficiary received three small goats to support their livestock entrepreneurship.

Mr Dawakin-Tofa added, “The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to addressing poverty through innovative and inclusive approaches.”

He disclosed that 7,158 goats had been distributed to 2,386 women beneficiaries under this phase.

Additionally, he said that the programme would provide 1,342 cows and 1,822 rams to women and youth in subsequent phases.

“Yusuf said the initiative was part of his administration’s broader strategy to empower vulnerable groups and foster economic independence among women and youth in the state.

“He warned the beneficiaries against diverting the livestock to other uses, stressing the importance of accountability and responsibility in the programme,” Mr Dawakin-Tofa said.

The governor’s spokesperson said the groundbreaking initiative underscored the administration’s focus on sustainable development and empowering communities to drive economic growth from the grassroots.

“By integrating women and youth into the agricultural value chain, the programme aims to enhance household income and reduce dependency on government aid.

“The initiative has been widely applauded as a significant step toward improving livelihoods, strengthening food security and creating wealth for Kano’s rural communities,” he added.

(NAN)