The Gombe State Government has empowered 573,429 farmers and entrepreneurs under the 4th phase of the GO-CARES programme, marking a major step toward alleviating poverty and supporting vulnerable citizens across the state.
The disbursement was officially inaugurated by Governor Inuwa Yahaya in Akko Local Government Area, where he reiterated his administration’s commitment to the welfare of the most disadvantaged.
Representing the Governor, Salihu Baba Alkali, Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, who also chairs the GO-CARES Steering Committee, stated that 152,429 individuals would receive direct support through cash transfers, livelihood grants, agricultural inputs, and operational grants for small businesses.
He noted that an additional 421,000 residents would indirectly benefit from infrastructure projects, including the construction of classroom blocks, healthcare facilities, WASH services, and rural infrastructure like culverts and drainage systems.
“In June 2024, we commenced the 4th phase of GO-CARES with the distribution of improved seedlings, fertilizers, and herbicides to farmers in Malam Sidi, Kwami Local Government Area, under Result Area 2,” the Governor’s representative highlighted.
The 4th phase also launched activities across three major result areas: State Cash Transfer Grants to 2,500 beneficiaries, Labour-Intensive Public Works benefiting 2,700 individuals, and Livelihood Grants reaching 10,000 people. Additionally, 405,000 indirect beneficiaries will gain from Basic Services projects, while Agricultural Inputs and Services will directly support 125,729 individuals.
Governor Yahaya further emphasized that these interventions are designed to boost the state’s economic development by enhancing small businesses, increasing IT adoption, and improving agricultural productivity.
However, over 305 communities across 11 LGAs will benefit from these projects, which include classroom and healthcare facilities, earth dams, culverts, and drainage rehabilitation.
He urged beneficiaries to make full use of the resources, stressing that their effective utilization would significantly reduce poverty and contribute to the state’s overall prosperity.
The Emir of Gona, Abdulkadir Abdulsalam, expressed appreciation to Governor Yahaya for his continued support of the poor and vulnerable, stating that such initiatives will help lift more people out of poverty.