From Tongnaan Bawa, Jos
In his quest to drive economic growth in Plateau State through an agricultural revolution, Governor Caleb Mutfwang has joined prominent world leaders at the World Food Prize Foundation event, held at Des Moines, Iowa, United States of America.
In a statement signed by his Director of Press and Public Affairs Gyang Bere, said the gathering served as a platform to explore sustainable solutions to food security challenges on a global scale, with a special focus on Africa.
Serving as a Special Guest of Honour, Governor Mutfwang renewed his administration’s unwavering commitment to revitalizing Plateau State’s economy by transforming its agricultural value chain.
He announced plans for an ambitious agricultural program aimed at elevating food production, creating jobs, and promoting sustainable economic growth for the state.
Governor Mutfwang emphasized his administration’s political will to implement impactful initiatives designed to uplift the well-being of Plateau citizens. He outlined ongoing efforts to foster peace, enhance security, and establish a business-friendly environment in Plateau State to attract both local and international investors.
Speaking on Africa’s agricultural potential, Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, stressed the critical need for Africa to shift from food security to food sovereignty.
He threw more light on the Bank’s Special Agro-Processing Zones project, saying it is a continental initiative that includes Plateau State as a key participant. The aim, he said is to streamline agro value chains and boost food production efficiency.
Other leaders in attendance included President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, Ambassador Kenneth Quinn, President of the World Food Prize Foundation, Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina State, and the 2023 Nobel Laureate Heidi Kühn, among others.
Their shared commitment further underscored the collective resolve to enhance agricultural resilience and food independence across the continent.