The National Moringa Farmers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NAMFAPMAN) has begun collaboration with the Katsina government to support about 2,500 farmers to boost moringa production in the state. Its National Vice President in charge of the Northwest, Mr. Rabe Hashimu, disclosed on Monday in Katsina.
He revealed that the state government assured the farmers of support in training the beneficiaries on moringa modern farming techniques.
The national vice chairman added that the government had allocated three hectares of land to the farmers in each of the 34 local government areas of the state.
According to him, the government gave the assurance to establish the Moringa Research Development Centre to enhance productivity across the state. He explained that moringa had nutritious content and was medicinal, pointing out that it could be used to enhance nutrition and treat hepatitis, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Hashimu disclosed that research showed that Katsina State was the highest producer of moringa in Nigeria. The official explained that the state had the potential to produce moringa leaves in a huge quantity that could be used for both domestic and export purposes. He noted that moringa could also be used to make lepton, biscuits, and bread, among others, and added that its oil could be extracted for different uses.
He noted that with the government’s support, they would empower some unemployed youths and women to produce such items, thereby making them self-reliant.
The national vice chairman further revealed that at least two farmers would be selected as marketers in each local government who would buy the commodity and sell it to the processors. He, therefore, advised people of the state to engage in moringa farming, to enhance its production and create more job opportunities for them.
