The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) has launched a training program for 560 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Jigawa State, focusing on poultry farming.
Speaking in Dutse on Tuesday, IITA’s Training Officer, Badamasi Muktar, explained that the initiative is being implemented in partnership with the MasterCard Foundation as part of an empowerment program specifically designed for PWDs, a group often overlooked in society.
“People with disabilities rarely receive the attention or support they need. This program is a deliberate effort to uplift them, helping them transition off the streets and lead dignified lives,” Muktar stated.
He emphasized that through this initiative, participants will become self-sufficient, independent, and valuable members of their communities and families.
The training, which began on February 24 in Dutse, Kiyawa, Birnin Kudu, and Kila, will last for three weeks.
Poultry farming was chosen because it is a business that can be easily managed at home, making it practical for individuals with disabilities.
Additionally, participants will receive training on the business aspects of poultry farming to equip them with the necessary skills to run and sustain their enterprises successfully.
“In addition to teaching them poultry farming techniques, we will also educate them on the business side of the trade. This will help them understand their investment costs and potential returns,” Muktar stated.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Chairman of the Joined Network of Persons With Disabilities (JNPWD) in Dutse, Sulaiman Muhammad, expressed appreciation to the organizers.
“We are truly grateful for this opportunity. We have learned how to rear both local and hybrid chickens, as well as strategies for finding markets and customers for our products. The training was conducted by highly competent resource persons who also ensured our specific needs as PWDs were met,” Muhammad said.
Similarly, the JNPWD Chairman for the state, Adamu Shuaibu, highlighted the positive impact the training would have on both the participants and the agricultural sector in Jigawa.
He emphasized that the program would empower beneficiaries to become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Shuaibu also urged other state governments and corporate organizations to adopt similar initiatives, noting that such efforts would significantly reduce street begging among persons with disabilities.
