A N77.9 million dam constructed by Kudan Local Government Area of Kaduna State is playing a major role in reducing unemployment in the area as irrigation farmers say their activities and yields have improved.
Aside from the provision of job opportunities, the dam, according to the Chairman of the council, Alhaji Shuaibu Jaja, has attracted farmers from different parts of the state and neighbouring states to participate in irrigation activities.
Alhaji Jaja who spoke to Arewa Trust Weekly, said the council constructed the dam at the Garu area, and that it was capable of serving about 3,000 dry season farmers of rice, sugarcane and vegetables.
He explained that, “The area has witnessed influx of dry season farmers from Danja and other parts of Katsina State who come to farm vegetables during the dry season. The dam has significantly reduced rural-urban migration because most of the youths in the area are gainfully engaged in farming and other economic activities.
“Irish and sweet potatoes, tomato, cabbage, carrot and other vegetable farmers have indicated interest to come and farm at Garu during the next dry season.”
He further said the council approached the state government for support to establish more dams in the area and that it approved the construction of three additional dams at strategic locations in the LGA.
He explained that preparation for the construction of the additional dams had reached advanced stage.
Our correspondent who visited the dam, spoke with Sama’ila Sardauna Kaku, a farmer, who said the new dam had improved his irrigation activities as he cultivated various types of vegetables.
Another young farmer, Dahiru Sani Hunkuyi, said a friend introduced guava, mango and other seedlings, and that he earned between N300,000 and N500,000 every season from his produce.
Join Daily Trust WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.
