On Wednesday, 17th December 2024, the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project marked a significant milestone in its two-year journey in the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT) as the Honourable Minister of State, FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, disbursed $25,000 to each ten communities

The Community Revolving Fund, an integral aspect of the ACReSAL Project aims at assisting registered community/farmer groups in targeted watersheds with financial resources to undertake projects that promote climate resilience and sustainable agricultural practices, leading to long-term socio-economic and environmental benefits. Offered at zero interest rates, the fund reflects the project’s strong commitment to community empowerment.

The call therefore by the Minister for beneficiaries to use the funds judiciously emphasizes the importance of timely repayment, ensuring that as a revolving fund, more communities benefit from the initiative

In addition to the financial support, Dr. Mahmoud flagged off the distribution of water pumping machines for Community Interest Groups (CIGs), motorcycles for the FCT Forest Guards, two water tankers and a multipurpose truck to support reforestation efforts and promoting climate-smart agriculture.

The event was not just about the disbursement of funds and resources; it was also a celebration of partnerships and collaborations. Dr. Mahmoud expressed heartfelt gratitude to the World Bank for their invaluable support and partnership through the ACReSAL project. She also acknowledged the contributions of the  subject specialists from the Federal Project Management Unit (FPMU).

The event featured goodwill messages from notable stakeholders, amongst whom were the World Bank ACReSAL Task Team Leader, Dr. Joy Agene Iganya and the National Project Coordinator of the ACReSAL Project, Abdulhamid Umar. Their messages reinforced the significance of these initiatives and the transformative impact they are expected to have on local communities. Beneficiaries shared heartfelt testimonials, expressing gratitude and commitment to utilizing the resources effectively to improve their livelihoods, enhance agricultural productivity and foster community growth.

Lawan Kolo Geidam, the Mandate Secretary of the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, highlighted the extensive impact of the ACReSAL project. Key achievements include reforesting degraded forest reserves in Buga and Kujekwa, planting a 160-kilometer shelter belt along Zuba to Giri junction to Abaji, fencing of FCT forest plantations and constructing 41 solar-powered boreholes and 270 stand-alone solar lights to enhance community livelihoods. ACReSAL has provided tractors, fertilizers, agro-chemicals and improved seedlings to farmer groups organized into Community Interest Groups (CIGs). The construction of 60 tubewells will bolster agricultural productivity, particularly during the dry season.

The efforts of the project, as articulated by the Honourable Minister of State in her speech, reflect a strong commitment to enhancing food security in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.