In a significant step toward advancing agricultural development and farmer empowerment in Kano State, the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Programme, Kano State Project Implementation Unit (KSPIU), has signed a Memorandum of Agreement and Action (MoAA) with the Kano Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (KNARDA).

The agreement marks the beginning of a strategic collaboration aimed at enhancing agricultural extension services, promoting technology adoption, and strengthening farmer capacity across the state.

KNARDA, a key government agency in Kano State, is dedicated to improving agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods through infrastructure development, agro-processing, and market access. The agency works closely with institutions such as the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR) at Ahmadu Bello University to introduce innovative agricultural technologies and practices to farmers.

On the other hand, the SAPZ Programme is a flagship agro-industrialization initiative designed to create integrated, agriculture-focused platforms that drive private sector investment in value-added agro-processing. The programme seeks to boost food security, generate employment, promote import substitution, reduce rural poverty, and increase agriculture’s contribution to Nigeria’s national GDP.

Under the newly signed MoAA, both parties have agreed to collaborate in key areas such as agricultural extension services, Farmer Field Schools (FFS), Farmer Field Days, technology demonstrations, knowledge and information sharing, mentorship and coaching, monitoring and evaluation, and input distribution.

The roles and responsibilities of each institution are clearly outlined in the agreement. KNARDA will provide technical support in mentorship and coaching, data collection, resource mobilization, training module development, and report writing. Meanwhile, the SAPZ Programme KSPIU will handle logistics, identify target locations and farmer clusters, mobilize farmer groups, and periodically develop Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials to support programme implementation.

The MoAA was officially signed on October 28, 2025, by the Director of Administration and General Services, representing the Managing Director of KNARDA, in the presence of the Director of Extension Services. On behalf of the SAPZ Programme, the Knowledge Management and Communication Officer (KMCO) signed the agreement in the presence of the Agricultural Productivity Officer.

This partnership underscores the shared commitment of both organizations to driving inclusive agricultural growth, improving knowledge transfer, and supporting smallholder farmers in Kano State toward achieving sustainable productivity and prosperity.

Rabi Mustapha Sadiq
Knowledge Management and Communication Officer, SAPZ Kano State