Anambra State has commissioned a 15-tonnes-per-month Afrirootz Flour Factory in Akwaeze, Anaocha Local Government Area, as part of efforts to strengthen agro-processing.
It will also reduce post-harvest losses and expand income opportunities for farmers.
The facility, established by Ideal Agro Allied Produce Limited, processes root crops including cassava, yam and potato into organic flour products for local consumption and export markets.
Commissioning the factory, the State Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. Ben Odoemena, described the project as a major step toward industrialising agriculture in the state through private-sector investment and value addition.
Odoemena said “the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo is focused on mechanised agriculture and initiatives capable of increasing farmers’ earnings while reducing waste across the food value chain.”
He commended the Chairman of Ideal Agro Allied Produce Limited, Chief Ikenna Okafor, for investing in agro-business and supporting food security and rural economic development.
Speaking during the event, Okafor said; “the project reflects the company’s commitment to job creation, sustainable agro-processing, and minimising post-harvest losses affecting farmers in Akwaeze and neighbouring communities.’
According to him, the facility has the capacity to process up to 15 tonnes of flour monthly at full operation.
“Food security remains critical to the growth of any society. We believe farmers in Akwaeze and beyond can benefit economically, including through exports of processed agricultural products,” he said.
Afrirootz
Afrirootz, a modern African food company, produces flour derived from locally cultivated cassava, yam, and potato sourced from company-owned farms and partner farmers.
The company’s Technical Director, Professor Nkiru Meludu, said the factory would maintain global best practices in food processing while ensuring preservative-free production standards.
Also speaking, the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, praised the initiative for promoting healthier food alternatives through organic processing methods.
Traditional rulers and community leaders at the event described the factory as a significant investment capable of positioning Akwaeze as a growing agro-processing hub in southeastern Nigeria.
The traditional ruler of Akwaeze, Igwe Christopher Okpala, and the President-General of Akwaeze Town Union, Mr. Osita Udemba, commended the company for creating economic opportunities and improving the value of locally produced crops.
Farmers in the community also welcomed the development, expressing optimism that the facility would reduce waste and create a stable market for agricultural produce.
The event featured cultural performances by the “Otu Olu Ugbo” troupe of Akwaeze and a guided tour of the processing facility attended by government officials, traditional rulers, and stakeholders in the agriculture sector.
