In a major step toward revitalizing Nigeria’s agricultural sector, the governments of Nigeria and Germany, in partnership with the European Union (EU), have unveiled a €18.3 million initiative aimed at boosting the country’s tomato and ginger value chains.

The project, known as the Agriculture Value Chain Facility – Transformative Agricultural Systems for Rural Economic Development (EU-VACE TARED), is set to run from October 2024 to September 2028 across seven states: Cross River, Kano, Kaduna, Kebbi, Ondo, Oyo, and Plateau.

Implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), in collaboration with Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Budget and National Planning and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the program is designed to address systemic challenges in agriculture while promoting inclusive growth. It aims to create or enhance 10,000 jobs and unlock €2 million in financing, with a strong focus on empowering women and youth.

Andrea Ruediger, representing GIZ, emphasized the project’s commitment to working with 25,000 beneficiaries and engaging key stakeholders to strengthen value chain promotion. Among its ambitious targets are a 15 percent reduction in post-harvest losses and a 15 percent increase in farmer incomes and business turnover. The initiative also plans to develop 25 investment proposals, with 15 expected to receive support, and hopes to see 15,000 beneficiaries adopt climate-smart and inclusive agricultural practices.

Oladoyin Olawaiye, GIZ Nigeria’s deputy country director, highlighted the program’s inclusive approach, which seeks to tackle pressing issues such as climate change, weak agro-processing infrastructure, environmental degradation, and insecurity. By focusing on innovation and sustainability, the project aims to build resilience across Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.