By Muhammad Sani Muazu
As part of efforts to promote value chain development and sustainability, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, in partnership with the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, organized a field visit to the Technology Incubation Centre in Bauchi. The visit, held on the third day of a training program, aimed to demonstrate how entrepreneurs process non-timber forest products (NTFPs) using innovative technology to add value to these resources.
The training, which involved participants from 13 states, is part of ACReSAL’s broader efforts to combat climate degradation and improve livelihoods in 19 northern states and Abuja. ACReSAL’s National project coordinator, Malam Abdulhamid Umar represented by Musa Shu’aibu, explained that the initiative, financed by the World Bank, aims to restore one million hectares of degraded land. As part of the agreement, the FAO is committed to restoring 350,000 hectares while promoting the use of non-timber forest products.
Speaking at the field visit, Shu’aibu highlighted the importance of adding value to NTFPs through improved processing techniques. “We have seen how these products are being processed, packaged, and presented in ways that not only improve income generation but also enhance nutrition,” he said. The entrepreneurs showcased how they convert products like dates into powder and syrup using local innovations supported by the Technology Incubation Centre.
Hadiza Muhammad, the Zonal Director of the Northeast National Technology Incubation Centre, provided insights into the role of the center in supporting entrepreneurs. “We accommodate them for 2 to 3 years, but we are now reviewing this to 4 years to achieve better results before graduation,” she said. Muhammad emphasized the ongoing support for entrepreneurs even after graduation, ensuring that they receive continued guidance and training to succeed in their ventures.
The event was attended by officials from the FAO,along with project coordinators from states such as Yobe, Taraba, and Sokoto, as well as environmental development experts.
The training and field visit reflect ACReSAL and FAO’s shared goal of promoting sustainable economic activities that improve resilience in semi-arid regions while addressing climate change challenges.