On April 26, 2024, UU.S. Consul General Will Stevens’ Virtual Remarks at the Launch of Manamuz Electric’s Solar-Powered Refrigerated Aggregation Center.S. Consul General in Lagos, Will Stevens, delivered virtual remarks celebrating the launch of a solar-powered cold storage facility in Aguobu Iwollo, Enugu State. This innovative project, spearheaded by Manamuz Electric and Mandela Washington Fellow Uzo Mbamalu, marks a significant advancement in supporting Nigeria’s agricultural sector and addressing post-harvest losses.
Empowering Local Communities Through U.S. Exchange Programs
During his address, Consul General Stevens highlighted the transformative impact of Uzo Mbamalu’s participation in the Mandela Washington Fellowship. Uzo’s six-week exchange experience at the University of Nevada-Reno facilitated valuable connections and partnerships that contributed to the development of this vital project. Uzo’s collaboration with the university’s college of business has provided ongoing technical and business advisory support, illustrating the power of international exchanges in driving local innovation.
Addressing Nigeria’s Post-Harvest Challenges
Nigeria faces substantial economic losses, estimated at nearly $9 billion annually, due to post-harvest waste caused by inadequate cold storage and transportation infrastructure. The newly commissioned solar-powered cold storage facility offers a sustainable solution by providing reliable and cost-effective preservation options for agricultural stakeholders, particularly benefiting smallholder farmers who play a crucial role in Nigeria’s food supply.
Partnerships for Sustainable Growth
Consul General Stevens acknowledged the essential contributions of various public and private sector stakeholders, including the Enugu State Marketing Company, Enugu State Polytechnic Iwollo, and local farmers, to the success of this initiative. He emphasized that the partnership between U.S. government agencies, such as the U.S. African Development Foundation, and Nigerian entities is pivotal in promoting food security and driving sustainable economic growth in Nigeria.
U.S. Commitment to Nigeria’s Agricultural Sector
The launch of this facility aligns with the U.S. government’s broader commitment to enhancing food security and agricultural productivity in Nigeria. Stevens mentioned the recent unveiling of the U.S. Global Food Security Strategy Country Plan for Nigeria, aimed at boosting agricultural output and fostering economic resilience. Over the past five years, USAID has invested nearly $200 million in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, supporting the development of new technologies, trade capacity building, and farmer training programs.
A Call for Continued Collaboration
In his closing remarks, Consul General Stevens reiterated the importance of a stable and business-friendly environment for attracting further investment. He emphasized the U.S. commitment to working with Nigeria to strengthen regulatory frameworks and make the country an even more attractive destination for business. He expressed optimism about the future, envisioning more Nigerian startups and businesses scaling globally through partnerships with the United States.
The successful launch of Manamuz Electric’s solar-powered cold storage facility is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and the shared commitment to sustainable development. The U.S. Consul General’s remarks underscored the significance of continued partnerships and investments to drive inclusive growth and development in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
