Mediaplusng.com reports that Katsina State is taking a bold step toward clean energy and rural development as Governor Dikko Umaru Radda met with top executives of Desert Technologies and Genesis Energy Group in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The strategic meeting is part of his administration’s broader vision to expand access to renewable energy and modern agricultural infrastructure across the state.
During the high-level discussions, Governor Radda emphasized the urgent need to tackle post-harvest losses affecting smallholder farmers in Katsina, particularly in the southern region. He noted that the absence of cold storage facilities continues to lead to the spoilage of large quantities of perishable farm produce.
To address this, Mediaplusng.com reports that the Katsina State Government is partnering with Desert Technologies to deploy solar-powered cold storage solutions in rural communities. These containerized, off-grid facilities will help farmers preserve their harvests, reduce waste, and increase food shelf life and market value—ultimately improving rural incomes and food security.
According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, the solar-plus-battery systems will also serve public schools, primary healthcare centres, and small businesses like phone charging stations, barbershops, tailoring shops, and welding workshops.
Governor Radda affirmed, “Our administration is committed to transforming agriculture and livelihoods in Katsina. These cold storage solutions will empower farmers and unlock rural prosperity.”
Mediaplusng.com further reports that the collaboration with Genesis Energy Group will bring technical support aimed at reducing the state’s reliance on fossil fuel generators and promoting clean, sustainable entrepreneurship at the grassroots level.
The meeting also included Dr. Hafiz Ibrahim, Special Adviser on Power and Energy, and Haruna Abbagana, Lead Consultant to the Katsina State Government, both of whom reiterated the administration’s commitment to delivering long-term energy access solutions.
