Anambra State’s Healthy Living Garden Initiative marked a significant milestone this week as Idemili South Local Government Area (LGA) celebrated its first organic harvest. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, wife of the Anambra State Governor, hailed the achievement as “heartwarming” and a critical step toward addressing food insecurity and promoting sustainable agriculture across the state.
The inaugural harvest from Idemili South’s Healthy Living Garden signals progress in the state’s broader agricultural agenda. Mrs. Soludo emphasized that the initiative aligns with the government’s target to establish organic gardens in every household and LGA, aiming to reduce reliance on chemically treated produce and stabilize food prices.
In her remarks, Mrs. Soludo praised the near-completion of a dedicated Farmers’ Market in Idemili South. She described the market as a “testament to the dedication and hard work” of local leaders, who have collaborated with communities to fast-track the project. The market will serve as a hub for selling organic produce, connecting farmers directly with consumers.
“The leadership of Idemili South LGA has shown exceptional faith and commitment to this vision,” Mrs. Soludo stated. She highlighted the months of collaborative efforts between farmers, volunteers, and government officials to cultivate the garden, which features crops like vegetables, tubers, and fruits grown without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides.
The Healthy Living Garden Programme, spearheaded by Mrs. Soludo, seeks to combat rising food costs by boosting local production. She stressed that widespread adoption of organic farming would “crush food inflation” and ensure long-term nutritional security. “Food sufficiency begins at home, and these gardens are a blueprint for every community,” she added.
The initiative also prioritizes health education, teaching residents to grow and consume nutrient-rich foods. Mrs. Soludo noted that Idemili South’s success story includes testimonials from families who have integrated organic practices into their daily lives, improving both their diets and household economies.
At least six other LGAs have already adopted the organic garden model, with Mrs. Soludo expressing optimism about replicating Idemili South’s “breakthrough.” She urged participating communities to maintain momentum, stating, “Organic farming is not a trend—it’s a lifestyle shift that guarantees our future.”
Economists have lauded the initiative’s potential to curb inflation, which has disproportionately impacted food prices in Nigeria. By shortening supply chains and encouraging hyper-local production, the programme aims to make fresh produce more accessible and affordable.
Challenges remain, including scaling the project to rural areas with limited resources. However, Mrs. Soludo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing training, seedlings, and logistical support to ensure no LGA is left behind.
As Anambra celebrates this milestone, stakeholders see a roadmap for broader agricultural reform. “May Anambra continue to win victory,” Mrs. Soludo declared, framing the harvest as not just a local triumph but a beacon of hope for sustainable development nationwide.
