Goat Initiative: Katsina Gov. Radda Empowers Women, Livestock Farmers
By Joe Goddy, Katsina
In a bold move to boost economic empowerment and rural development, Governor Dikko Umar Radda has launched a large-scale goat distribution initiative, benefiting 43,000 women and livestock farmers across Katsina State.
The initiative, which positions Katsina as a leading hub for small-scale livestock farming, aims to provide sustainable livelihoods through animal husbandry.
The distribution program, flagged off in Daura Zone, is part of the state government’s broader strategy to combat poverty, enhance food security, and promote self-reliance among rural dwellers.
Speaking at the event, Governor Radda revealed that over N5.7 billion has been earmarked for the initiative, further boosting the national livestock market.
He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to establish a Ministry of Livestock to support similar initiatives across the country.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of the people and tackling poverty, which remains a major focus of the initiative.
He assured that plans are underway to establish a livestock center to drive the project forward and transform Katsina into a viable state for large-scale goat and livestock production.
Governor Radda further disclosed that 40,000 goats have been selected for distribution to over 3,000 women, with each beneficiary receiving four goats, while 50 goats will be allocated to livestock farmers in each ward.
To guarantee the effectiveness and longevity of the programme, the state government has established three quarantine centers at Dan-Nakola, Ladanawa, and Kabomo, where goats undergo health screenings, treatment, and vaccinations before distribution.
Additionally, beneficiaries have been organized into ward-based clusters, under the supervision of experienced large-scale farmers and ward development committees.
Participants also receive training in goat rearing, management, and animal husbandry to maximize productivity and ensure long-term success.
The Coordinator of the Community Development Programme, Dr. Kamaluddin Kabir, commended the state government for its unwavering efforts to uplift rural communities. He noted that since the inception of the program, a total of 132,000 residents have benefited from various empowerment initiatives. These include the distribution of 36,000 bags of fertilizer, 3,610 power tillers, 3,600 water pumps, and 43,000 goats for rearing
Dr. Kabir also assured that monitoring mechanisms have been put in place to prevent the unauthorized sale of the goats and ensure that beneficiaries utilize them for economic growth.
Governor Radda’s administration has prioritized livestock development as a key pillar of economic transformation in Katsina State. This initiative aligns with his vision of harnessing agriculture to uplift communities, create jobs, and drive economic stability.
The Special Adviser on Livestock and Grazing Reserves, Yusuf Sulaiman praised the efforts of the implementation committee, led by the Chief of Staff and the Coordinator of the Community Development Committee, as well as the dedication of local government and ward committees in ensuring the program’s success.
As Katsina positions itself as a center for small scale livestock farming, beneficiaries have been urged to seize this opportunity for economic growth, paving the way for improved livelihoods and sustainable development in the state.
