The Kwara State Government has again reiterated its commitment to quality and safe meat products for consumption through good and hygienic practices for the wellbeing of the people of the state.
The State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, made the reiteration at a one-day workshop organized by the State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), in partnership with Bolaniks Agricultural Enterprises and Consultancy Services
for value chain operators on meat handling protocols, processing, and good hygiene practice.
Governor AbdulRazaq, who was represented by the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas said the state government is prioritizing food safety through continuous sensitization of farmers, processors, and other value chain players to prevent risks associated with unsafe practices in the agricultural sector.
“This training is essential because the livestock industry plays a critical role in our food security and public health sector.
“It is our responsibility to ensure that the meat we consume is safe and wholesome, by investing in the training and capacity development of the people involved in livestock supply chain, we are investing in the health and well-being of our citizens”, the Governor said.
He explained that the training would further enhance the understanding of meat handling protocols, improve quality of meat products, and reduce the risk of meat-borne illnesses among the consumers of livestock products in the state.
In his address, the State L-PRES Project Coordinator, Mr. Olusoji Oyawoye said the initiative is a demonstration of the commitment of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who has given full support to the activities of L-PRES towards the development of the livestock sector and the good health of the populace.
Mr. Oyawoye stressed that the capacity building is aimed at ensuring excellent meat hygiene, preventing contamination and zoonotic diseases, and upscaling the activities of butchers, meat sellers, and meat processors in the state.
The State Director of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Dr. Oluwatosin Fakayode explained that disease does not know boundaries, pointing out that his Ministry is collaborating to ensure that the health of livestock and humans are factored.
He added that the concept of one-health requires that all ministries and necessary stakeholders work harmoniously to propagate good health and protection of the people in the society.
The Director of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Abdulateef Olugbon appreciated the state government support in developing the livestock sector in the state.
The Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) in charge of Public Health and Epidemiology, Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Idiat Aminu said the training is to educate butchers against infiltrating the markets with unwholesome meat and its consequences on the health of the consumers.
