Jubilate Esogwa
United States consul general in Lagos, Will Stevens, has commended the establishment of a solar-powered cold storage facility in Enugu State.
The initiative, spearheaded by Manamuz Electric and steered by a Mandela Washington Fellow, Uzo Mbamalu, was launched at Aguobu Iwollo Refrigerated Center in Enugu. It was a project geared towards combatting Nigeria’s post-harvest waste challenge in order to boost food security.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelMr. Stevens, who participated virtually in the launching of the facility last week, lauded the impact of Uzo Mbamalu’s U.S. exchange program experience at the University of Nevada-Reno, which facilitated valuable connections beneficial to his local community.
The project received crucial technical and business advisory support from the university, alongside a grant from the U.S Africa Development Foundation leading to the project being launched.
Expressing gratitude, the consul general acknowledged the important contributions of public and private sector stakeholders, such as the Enugu State marketing company, Enugu State Polytechnic Iwollo, and smallholder farmers, in ensuring the success of the project.
Mr. Steve also emphasized the need for solar-powered cold storage facilities stating that it will aid in addressing Nigeria’s pressing agricultural infrastructure needs.
“Solar-powered Cold Storage systems like the one we are commissioning today provide a reliable and cost-effective preservation option for agricultural stakeholders,” he said.
He further noted the U.S. government’s collaborative efforts with Federal and State agencies, as well as businesses, to champion food security in Nigeria.
“In the last five years, the U.S. Agency for International Development has invested almost $200 million in agriculture to improve food security and build household resilience across Nigeria,” he added.
Mr. Stevens also encouraged Nigerians to invest in agriculture, stating that it not only elevates Nigeria’s infrastructure but also creates opportunities for U.S. businesses who wish to enter the Nigerian market.
He expressed readiness to collaborate with Nigeria in fortifying institutions and regulatory frameworks, thereby enhancing Nigeria’s appeal as a business-friendly destination.
