Nigeria, Mastercard collaborate to support 1million African farmers
Nigeria, Mastercard collaborate to support 1million African farmers.
Nigeria and Mastercard have announced a groundbreaking partnership to support one million African farmers, aimed at improving yield and agricultural productivity.
The project plan includes support for one million agricultural workers across Nigeria, Kenya, and Tanzania, with a focus on enhancing financial inclusion and digital access to critical services, as well as support from the African Development Bank (AfDB).
The partnership deal was sealed during a meeting between Vice President Kashim Shettima and executives of Mastercard Corporation on the sidelines of the ongoing 79th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York
Speaking during the meeting, the Vice President who is representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the annual global event noted that the initiative has transformative potential for Africa’s food security drive.
In a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said: “This partnership is an important milestone in our quest for comprehensive financial inclusion and agricultural empowerment.
“By leveraging Mastercard’s global expertise, we’re set to create unprecedented opportunities for farmers across Nigeria, Kenya, and Tanzania”, he said.
Earlier, the Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, explained that the partnership will provide digital access to critical financial services for agricultural workers, which he said is expected to significantly boost productivity and economic growth in the sector.
“We’re not just introducing new technologies; we’re reimagining the entire agricultural value chain. Our goal is to ensure that every farmer, regardless of their location, has access to modern financial tools”.
He disclosed that the initiative also addresses existing challenges in Nigeria’s digital payment ecosystem.
“We’re aware of the trust deficits that have hindered the full activation of contactless payments by some acquirers and banks. This partnership includes specific measures to bridge these gaps and ensure widespread adoption,” Tijani added.
Also, the Country Manager for West Africa at Mastercard, Dr. Folasade Femi-Lawal, said a key component of the partnership is the rollout of contactless payment systems.
“We’re planning 160 contactless payment seminars starting next February. These seminars are crucial in educating stakeholders and preparing the market for this technological leap,” he stated.
