IFAD-VCDP Empowers 20 PWDs with Poultry Starter Packs in Enugu

The International Fund for Agricultural Development-Value Chain Development Programme (IFAD-VCDP) has empowered 20 persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Enugu State with poultry production equipment and local chickens as part of efforts to enhance livelihoods, improve nutrition, and promote economic inclusion.

The beneficiaries, drawn from Udenu, Isi-Uzo, Nkanu East, Enugu East and Aninri Local Government Areas, received poultry rearing cages, local chickens, poultry feed, drinkers and feeders during a distribution exercise held in Udenu Local Government Area.

Speaking at the event, the State Nutrition Officer of IFAD-VCDP, Mrs. Promise Ezeah, said the intervention was designed to improve the nutritional status and economic well-being of persons with disabilities while ensuring that they are not excluded from agricultural empowerment programmes.

According to her, the initiative reflects the programme's commitment to inclusive development and sustainable livelihoods.

"We decided this year to support persons with disabilities with poultry rearing equipment to enhance their nutrition and provide them with income-generating opportunities.

"Our goal is to help them improve their livelihoods and let them know that they are valued members of society," Ezeah said.

She disclosed that the beneficiaries had previously received assorted vegetable seeds for backyard gardening as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen household food security and nutrition.

Ezeah urged the beneficiaries to make effective use of the support provided, explaining that local chickens were selected because of their adaptability, low maintenance requirements and economic value.

"Local chickens require minimal management.

"They can feed on available household leftovers and forage around the environment, making them less expensive to maintain.

"The chickens are also a good source of protein and can generate income for the beneficiaries," she said.

The nutrition officer further assured that IFAD-VCDP would continue to monitor the beneficiaries to ensure that the poultry equipment and birds are properly utilised for the intended purpose.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Celestina Eze, described the intervention as transformative and expressed gratitude to IFAD-VCDP for the opportunity.

"I am very happy and excited. I have always dreamed of having this kind of opportunity.

"Through the support of IFAD-VCDP, I believe I will expand my poultry business and improve my standard of living.

"We have benefited from several interventions, including fertilisers and seeds, and they have positively impacted our lives.

"I believe that through this programme, I will never become a beggar on the streets," she said.

Another beneficiary, Miss Blessing Ani, commended the programme for recognising and supporting persons with disabilities through practical empowerment initiatives.

"I am very impressed and grateful to be among those selected to benefit.

"This is the third time I am benefiting from IFAD-VCDP programmes, and I appreciate everyone contributing to the welfare of others," Ani said.

She pledged to make productive use of the poultry starter packs and expressed confidence that the intervention would help improve her economic prospects.

The initiative forms part of IFAD-VCDP's broader efforts to promote inclusive agricultural development, improve food security and create sustainable income opportunities for vulnerable groups across Enugu State.

Tags: #IFADVCDP #EnuguState#PWDs #Agriculture#FoodSecurity#EconomicEmpowerment#PoultryFarming#InclusiveDevelopment