The Edo State Government has announced plans to strengthen rural connectivity and boost agricultural market access through the establishment of the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), a major initiative aimed at reducing post-harvest losses and improving rural livelihoods.
Governor Monday Okpebholo, represented by the Commissioner for Works, Hon. Felix Akhabue, made this known during a one-day stakeholders’ consultation meeting held in Benin City. The event was organised by the Edo State Government in collaboration with the Federal Project Management Unit (FPMU) and development partners.
Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure and inclusive rural development, noting that the RAAMP initiative would prioritise rehabilitating and maintaining rural roads to enhance transport efficiency and ensure better access to farmlands and markets.
“We are committed to meaningful road projects across rural communities in Edo State. This reform is people-driven and anchored on a government-private partnership framework that ensures participatory budgeting. It is aimed at closing the gap between urban and rural areas,” he stated.
The consultation also focused on two key reform components, the creation of a State Road Fund (SRF) and a Rural Access Road Agency (RARA) — both designed to institutionalise road maintenance and support sustainable agricultural activities.
Speaking at the meeting, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu, said the initiative would play a critical role in reducing post-harvest losses and improving the livelihoods of rural dwellers.
Similarly, the representative of the National Coordinator of RAAMP, Irabor Ehizojie, noted that the project would provide lasting solutions to rural infrastructure challenges and open new opportunities for agricultural trade and development.
State Project Coordinator, Owara Obamwonyi, added that the reform would “enhance the welfare of rural communities and create economic linkages through improved road networks.”
A major highlight of the event was a presentation by Graham Smith, Lead Consultant from the FPMU, who outlined the framework for reform and facilitated discussions among key stakeholders, including local leaders, civil society representatives, and development partners.
