By Hillary Asemota
As part of efforts to advance agricultural research for food and nutritional security, the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) has donated state-of-the-art equipment to the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), Zaria, Kaduna State.
The state-of-the-art-facilities, EXTRAORDINAIRE.COM, learnt will guarantee year-round crop research and seed storage.
The equipment donated include a greenhouse facility, that was upgraded and equipped with cutting-edge technology powered by a 100KVA solar system, a 30KVA solar-powered cold storage facility and a solar system powered irrigation facilities covering 2 hectares of land.
Spokesperson for AATF, for West and Central Africa, Mr. Alex Abutu, in a statement made available to journalists, said the equipment are advanced facilities tailored to support agricultural research endeavors throughout the year, regardless of seasonal weather and climate constraints.
According to him, at a hand-over ceremony at the Institute, Dr. Emmanuel Okogbenin, AATF Director, Program Development and Commercialization said: “The centerpiece of this donation is a series of state-of-the-art greenhouse facilities, equipped with innovative technology to create optimal growing conditions for various crops.
“The greenhouse is designed to maintain controlled environments, allowing researchers at IAR to conduct experiments and cultivate crops irrespective of external weather conditions.”
Furthermore, Okogbenin, said the donation includes a 15 ton modern seed storage facilities, equipped with sophisticated cooling systems and climate control mechanisms. These facilities are essential for preserving the viability and genetic integrity of seeds, ensuring their availability for research and agricultural development initiatives”.
According to AATF Director, the donation reflects AATF’s commitment to supporting agricultural development initiatives across Africa which underscores the importance of collaboration in achieving food security and agricultural sustainability.
By providing essential equipment and resources, he reiterated that AATF aims to empower institutions like IAR to undertake impactful research and innovation in the agricultural sector.
“This initiative exemplifies the potential for partnerships between public and private entities to drive positive change in agriculture, fostering innovation and resilience in the face of global challenges,” he added.
The Executive Director, IAR, Dr. Yusuf Ado, expressed profound gratitude for the generous donation from AATF, emphasizing its transformative impact on agricultural research and seed storage capabilities.
He said: “With these state-of-the-art facilities, we are empowered to conduct research and store seeds year-round, contributing significantly to our efforts towards sustainable agriculture.
“With access to state-of-the-art equipment, we are well-positioned to make significant strides in advancing agricultural productivity and ensuring food security for generations to come.” Yusuf said.
