At Anambra’s New Yam Festival, Governor Soludo promotes farming as a key solution to food security, launching “Operation Show Me Your Farm.”
At the 2024 Anambra State New Yam Festival, Governor Charles Soludo underscored farming as a critical solution to combat food insecurity and economic challenges.
Addressing attendees at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, Governor Soludo urged citizens to support the state’s “Farm to Feed” initiative, encouraging each household to cultivate crops to reduce dependency on markets and alleviate the food crisis.
In line with his commitment to agricultural development, Governor Soludo announced the launch of “Operation Show Me Your Farm,” a campaign to inspire public officials and citizens to actively engage in farming.
He emphasised that public officials should lead by example, planting essential crops like vegetables and pepper to demonstrate their commitment to food self-sufficiency. “With every household embracing farming, the food crisis can be alleviated,” he stated.
Governor Soludo further showcased his dedication by pledging to participate in Anambra’s “best yam cultivator competition” in 2025, a move aimed at encouraging widespread agricultural involvement.
During the festival, the governor rewarded outstanding yam producers, presenting the top winner from Anaocha LGA, a repeat champion, with three million naira (₦3,000,000) and a tricycle courtesy of Ikenga Umuawulu.
Three runners-up were also honoured with one million naira (₦1,000,000) each, recognising their contributions to local agricultural success.
The Governor highlighted the importance of farming to stabilise agricultural production and reduce food prices, calling on Ndị Igbo to maintain their agricultural heritage.
“Farming has always been a foundation of Igbo culture, and by preserving this heritage, we ensure food security for future generations,” he said.
Mr. Don Onyenji, Anambra’s Commissioner for Tourism, Culture and Entertainment, reiterated the cultural value of the festival, noting that it serves as an important platform to preserve Igbo traditions for younger generations.
The event brought together dignitaries, local farmers, and citizens to witness yam-cutting ceremonies, cultural displays, and prize presentations, celebrating both tradition and the critical role of agriculture in Igbo society.
The New Yam Festival not only highlighted the cultural relevance of yam farming but also underscored agriculture’s importance in solving pressing food security issues in Anambra State.
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