Nestle train 30,000 farmers to meet demand

Nestle Nigeria, in partnership with the International Fertiliser Development Centre (IFDC), has trained more than 30,000 farmers on resilient millet/sorghum farming systems in the last two years.

The training was designed to breed farmers with good skills that would enhance production that would meet 100 per cent of Nestle’s raw materials locally.

Victoria Uwadoka, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Manager of Nestle Nigeria, said in Ilupeju, Lagos that the project had started yielding results.

She said the farmers now produce higher quality grains and record less post-harvest losses, thereby, earning more, while personal income and livelihoods across the communities where the company sources its raw materials have improved considerably.

Uwadoka said Nestle Nigeria’s vision is to create a value chain in the ecosystem that would benefit everyone involved in the organisation’s business.

“We believe by creating sustainable value for the society and our stakeholders, we would ensure the continued longevity and success of our business- a concept called ‘Creating Shared Value’.

She said: “In line with our purpose, which is enhancing quality of life and contributing to a healthier future, creating shared value is embedded in everything we do.

“Our initiatives are founded on three pillars: individuals and families, our communities and the planet. We work alongside partners and other stakeholders to create value for the individuals and grow our natural ingredients, the families that enjoy our nutritious products, the communities where we live and work, and the planet upon which we all depend.”

Only recently, Nestle Nigeria refurbished facilities in two primary schools, in Ogun State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, to help create a more conducive environment for teaching and learning in communities where its factories are located.

Managing Director of Nestle Nigeria, Mauricio Alarcon, noted that the long term success of the company’s business is dependent on nurturing thriving communities closest to its operations.