The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)’s Value Chain Development programme (VCDP) has graduated 25 rice and cassava farm machine fabricators in Taraba.

The graduates were provided with starter packs to commence operations immediately.

Irimiya Musa, the state programme coordinator (SPC), said VCDP was deliberate about making use of youths within the state to create jobs.

Mr Musa explained that the programme has designed an all-inclusive intervention for rice and cassava ranging from production, processing, and marketing.

 The SPC lauded Gov. Agbu Kefas for his commitment to the programme by prompt payment of counterpart funding for its success.

He also commended the Taraba State Polytechnic, Suntai, for the expertise in training the fabricators for the benefit of rice and cassava farmers.

Mr Musa charged the beneficiaries not to sell the starter packs but rather to use them to create wealth for themselves and enhance food security.

“I want to caution you against selling the starter packs that you have been given. Following the good example of those we have trained before as rice seed entrepreneurs,” he said.

Fatima Kabiru, the national programme coordinator (NPC), said Taraba VCDP has achieved so much as many young talents have been trained and are doing great things.

 Represented by Musa Dalang, the NPC commended the Taraba government, saying the state was always the first in payment of counterpart funding for the programme.

Salla Ali, permanent secretary, Taraba ministry of agriculture and food security, commended VCDP for the laudable programmes and projects.

Uba Saidu, on behalf of the beneficiaries, commended the Taraba government and VCDP for the opportunity to become self-employed.

He pledged their commitment to work hard to justify the confidence reposed in them for the good of the people of the state.

 (NAN)