… Government Introduces Organic Vegetables, Staple Crops, and Subsidized Kwara Rice
The Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has announced the expansion of the Thursday Market, offering residents a wider variety of organic vegetables and essential food staples in addition to the already available fresh fish. This initiative is part of the state government’s continued efforts to enhance food security, promote sustainable agriculture, and support local farmers.
According to the Honorable Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, Kwarans can now purchase Ewedu (Jute leaves), Soko (Lagos Spinach), Tete (African Spinach), and other leafy greens, all cultivated using organic farming methods at the Ministry of Agriculture. The vegetables are grown using water and waste from the Ministry’s Fish Hatchery, ensuring a natural and chemical-free production process.
“Green, healthy, and organic Ewedu and Efo will now be available at our Thursday Fish Market,” said Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas. “It is also noteworthy that our vegetable farm has produced a high yield even at the peak of the dry season, reinforcing our advocacy for year-round planting as a cost-effective and sustainable practice.”
Beyond vegetables, the Thursday Market now provides essential food staples, including yam, beans, maize, and sorghum. These staple crops were given back to the state government by farmers who had benefited from Kwara’s agricultural input and empowerment programs—a testament to the success of the government’s continued support for local farmers.
Additionally, “Made in Kwara” rice is now available at the market at a subsidized rate, making it more affordable than prevailing market prices. This aligns with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s commitment to food affordability and agricultural sustainability.
With this expansion, the Thursday Market continues to evolve into a hub for fresh, locally grown, and organic produce, reinforcing Kwara’s position as a leader in sustainable agriculture. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of this initiative by purchasing fresh fish, organic vegetables, staple crops, and premium-quality Kwara rice at competitive prices.
