The British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF), in partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), yesterday empowered eight fish farmers cooperative groups with fish smoking equipment.
The farmers were drawn from Cross River, Delta, Ondo and Edo.
Speaking at the presentation in Ibadan, Mrs Abimbola Okoya, executive director of BATNF, said foundation seek to support small holder farmers in venturing into commercial farming.
Okoya said the fish farmers were trained on how to use the equipment, adding that this will add value to their business in preservation and packaging.
She said there were many unhealthy smoked fish in the market as a result of poor preservation and the use of unconsumable chemicals.
“I encourage you to make effective use of this equipment and train other members of your community.
“We would continue to monitor everyone to ensure that you make use of the equipment effectively,’’ she said.
Also speaking, Mr Kayode Faleti, the southern coordinator of USAID, urged beneficiaries to be diligent in carrying out their farming business.
Faleti said the foundation would reduce the post-harvest losses of farmers and increase their income through value addition.
“With this smoking equipment, you can determine when to sell your product and when to keep them instead of hurrying to sell at a loss for fear of the fish getting spoilt.
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