The Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Programme – Kano State Project Implementation Unit (KSPIU) has officially signed a Memorandum of Agreement and Action (MoAA) with the Kano Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (KNARDA) to strengthen collaboration in agricultural development and rural transformation.

KNARDA is a key government agency in Kano State, Nigeria, dedicated to improving agricultural productivity and enhancing rural livelihoods through infrastructure development, agro-processing, and market access.

The agency also partners with research institutions such as the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR) at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, to introduce innovative agricultural technologies and best practices to farmers across the state.

On the other hand, the SAPZ Programme is a comprehensive agro-industrialization initiative designed to create integrated, agriculture-focused platforms that drive private sector investment in value-added agro-processing.

The programme aims to boost food security, generate employment, promote import substitution, reduce rural poverty, and enhance agriculture’s contribution to national GDP.

Under the newly signed agreement, both parties committed to collaborate in key areas including:

Agricultural extension services

Conduct of Farmer Field Schools (FFS) and Farmer Field Days

Technology demonstrations

Knowledge and information sharing

Mentorship and coaching

Monitoring and evaluation (M&E)

Inputs distribution

The roles and responsibilities of each party were clearly defined in the MoAA.

KNARDA will provide technical support on mentorship and coaching, data collection, development of training modules, facilitation of resource persons, and report writing.

SAPZ Programme KSPIU will provide logistical support, identify target locations, manage cluster and farmer group lists, and lead periodic activities on Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials.

The MoAA was duly signed on the 28th of October, 2025, by the Director, Administration and General Services, KNARDA, on behalf of the Managing Director, in the presence of the Director of Extension.

The Knowledge Management and Communication Officer (KMCO) signed on behalf of the State Project Coordinator (SPC), SAPZ, in the presence of the Agricultural Productivity Officer.

This collaboration marks a significant step toward achieving sustainable agricultural transformation and rural prosperity in Kano State.