The Olam Food Ingredients (Ofi), a prominent cashew company in Kwara state, has pledged to remain steadfast in its commitment to improve the wellbeing of cashew farmers and partnering communities, fostering better yields through collaborative efforts with farmers.
Mr. Rajeesh Neelanjeri, the General Manager of Ofi, reiterated this commitment during the Annual Cashew Farmers Meeting organized by the company, recently, in Ilorin.
He emphasized that farmers play a vital role in the agriculture sector and are the backbone of sustainable cashew production.
The meeting saw the active participation of 15 cashew farmers’ groups from various communities in Kwara and Oyo States. It provided a platform for sensitization on enhanced cashew production and harvesting practices.
Neelanjeri highlighted the organization’s unwavering support to farmers, which includes training in Good Agriculture Practices (GAP), providing pre-season finance, distributing farming equipment, and running social and community programs.
The sustainability philosophy of Ofi revolves around five pillars: prosperous farmers, thriving communities, sustainable choices, climate positivity, and regenerating the living world. The organization aims to create a positive and lasting impact on society and the environment through its activities.
Related Posts
Malam Kabiru Mohammed, the Director of Agriculture at Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture, delivered a keynote address on “Improvement in Cashew Farming System in Nigeria.”
Represented by Mr. Amole Nathaniel, the Director of Nigeria Produce and Inspection Service, Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture, Mohammed emphasized that adopting modern cashew cultivation practices is essential to achieve improved cashew production.
Cashew is a globally recognized commodity crop and contributes significantly to foreign exchange earnings. To tap into its full potential, the move from subsistence to mechanized farming, especially in areas with vast land usage, is crucial.
The company’s participatory efforts in Rural Agrarian Infrastructural Development programs received commendation from the Director of Agriculture.
He acknowledged that these initiatives have positively impacted the people and the cashew industry at large.
The sidelines of the event featured the presentation of awards to outstanding cashew farmers in Kwara and Oyo States, recognizing their valuable contributions to the industry.
With its continuous support and collaborative approach, Ofi aims to empower cashew farmers and foster sustainable growth in the cashew sector in Kwara and Oyo States.
