By Abdullahi Lukman
The Anambra State Government, in collaboration with the Faculty of Agriculture, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, has launched a three-week certificate course aimed at training individuals in sustainable African Palm Weevil and Water Snail farming.
The program, which began this week in Awka, is designed to provide participants with practical skills in farming these high-protein, low-cost species, which could transform agricultural practices in the state.
The course was inaugurated by Dr. Forster Ihejiofor, the State Commissioner for Agriculture, at the Ministry of Agriculture’s Conference Hall.
It aims to unlock the potential of palm weevil and water snail farming, which are not only rich in protein but can also significantly contribute to boosting food security and creating economic opportunities.
Approximately 100 participants, including farmers and aspiring entrepreneurs from across Anambra, have registered for the training.
During the launch, Dr. Ihejiofor emphasized the economic benefits of palm weevil and water snail farming, which require minimal investment and can yield high returns.
“These species are rich in protein and essential nutrients that are beneficial for both human consumption and animal feed production,” he said.
“The training will empower participants to become practitioners and, eventually, trainers who can spread these practices throughout the state.”
A notable part of the training includes insights from Barr. Mandala Chandra Sekhar, a resource person from India. Sekhar specializes in using dead palm cellulose and other materials for palm weevil farming and is dedicated to sharing this knowledge with the participants.
Dr. Ihejiofor also highlighted the broader economic impact of this initiative, estimating that replacing fish protein with palm weevil larvae and water snail could reduce animal feed costs by up to 65%.
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“This training will open up a wealth of opportunities for Anambra’s youth and women, who can turn these farming ventures into multi-million naira businesses,” he said.
Prof. Cordelia Ebenebe, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, praised the program’s potential to improve animal protein intake and address the growing nutritional challenges faced by Nigerians.
She noted that palm weevil farming is a viable solution to the increasing cost of traditional livestock, especially in light of Nigeria’s malnutrition issues.
“The African Palm Weevil and Golden Apple Snail are packed with protein and amino acids, which are essential for tackling malnutrition,” she said.
“This farming initiative will provide affordable sources of animal protein for households, especially in rural areas.”
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Uzoka, also delivered a goodwill message, encouraging participants to embrace alternative protein sources.
She noted the global trend of using insects in food production and other industries, including pharmaceuticals, and urged the participants to take advantage of the knowledge offered by the training.
Barr. Mandala Chandra Sekhar, the resource person, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating that he was committed to helping participants understand the immense potential of these farming methods.
“I am delighted to be here in Nigeria to share my expertise on palm weevil and golden apple snail farming,” he said.
“This is a unique opportunity to create jobs, improve nutrition, and promote economic growth in the state.”
At the end of the course, participants will receive certificates, enabling them to either start their own farms or teach others, further spreading the knowledge and practices learned.
The initiative is part of Anambra State’s broader efforts to boost agricultural innovation, provide new income streams for its citizens, and improve food security across the region. END
