IFDC, FrieslandCampina WAMCO partner to transform local milk production in Nigeria
The International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC), representing the 2SCALE program, has signed a partnership agreement with FrieslandCampina Wamco (FCW) with the aim to sustainably transform and lead the local dairy sector in Nigeria by supporting Fulani Milk Producers’ (FMP) transition into modern dairy farmers and developing key infrastructures required for a sustainable value chain.
The partnership agreement, which will run from January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2023, was signed by Albin Hubscher, President & CEO of IFDC, and Ben Langat, Managing Director of FCW Nigeria Plc on July 10, 2019 in Lagos, Nigeria. Witnessing the event were Sigrid Kaag, Minister of International Trade and Development Cooperation of The Netherlands, and a host of dignitaries. Kaag’s ministry is funding 2SCALE.
“I see FrieslandCampina WAMCO runs a stellar operation,” Minister Kaag said. “You have changed the status quo in local milk sourcing and are playing a key role as a private sector partner in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.” She encouraged 2SCALE and FCW to expand the successful activity to other states in Nigeria.
Hubscher said IFDC will lead 2SCALE with its partners SNV and BoPlnc on its continued journey to empower farmers and develop inclusive market systems.
“IFDC’s work starts with healthy soils, creates healthy markets, and ends with healthy people,” he said. “We encourage dairy and crop farmers to coexist and to produce top quality silage which will increase milk production. In order to be successful, soil health and improved soil fertility combined with adequate agricultural practices is essential. Finally, 2SCALE wants to support FrieslandCampina WAMCO in its pursuit to offer consumers the safest and most nutritious product they can.”
2SCALE and FCW are collaborating to deepen the inclusive model for local sourcing of fresh milk in Nigeria in line with FCW’s Dairy Development Program (DDP). The DDP aims to improve the livelihood of smallholder dairy farmers, deepen the dairy market, increase the volume of fresh milk from empowered dairy farmers and create employment by empowering women and youth both on-farm and off-farm – thus improving food safety and enhancing nutrition.
“As industry leader, FrieslandCampina Wamco has established best practice models for local milk sourcing to thrive,” Langat said. “By signing this second phase agreement with IFDC for the 2SCALE project, we are demonstrating the need for partnerships in contributing to food security.”
