CARITAS Nigeria has empowered 400 farmers with smart agricultural skills and modern food processing techniques aimed at alleviating poverty and promoting sustainable livelihoods.
The initiative targets beneficiaries in Badagry, Ikorodu and other parts of Lagos, equipping them with practical knowledge to boost productivity and income generation.
The programme forms part of CARITAS’s humanitarian and human capital development efforts, supported by the Conrad Hilton Foundation in collaboration with the Sisters of the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus.
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Participants were trained in key areas, including pasteurisation of tomatoes and pepper into paste, cassava processing into garri flour, fresh fish preservation and commercial catfish breeding.
Speaking during the programme, the Director of Humanitarian Services, CARITAS Nigeria, Nkese Udongwo, said the initiative is designed to reduce dependence on white-collar jobs.
“The aim of this programme is to move people out of poverty, and enable them to have sustainable livelihood without waiting for white collar jobs. When they are gainfully self-employed, they will be able to employ others,” she explained.
Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of CARITAS Nigeria, Reverend Father Peter Babangida, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting vulnerable groups.
“Our aim is to support the poor and the vulnerable in the society by training them and offering them the equipment to grow on,” he stated.
He urged beneficiaries who received start-up kits to utilise them effectively rather than sell them.
Participants expressed appreciation for the support, noting that the tools and training would enhance their agricultural activities and improve their livelihoods