Kwara State Fish Farmers Association (KWAFFA), has appealed for government immediate intervention to tackle the rise in the cost of feed.
This was contained in a statement signed by the association acting chairman, Mallam Sulyman Buhari on Monday.
See full statement bellow:
COVID-19 : HIGH COST OF FEED A RECIPE TO UNAFFORDABLE FISH PRICES IN THIS TRYING TIME. AN APPEAL FOR GOVERNMENT IMMEDIATE INTERVENTION
The sudden rise in the cost of feed is a case for concern at this period.
It is observed in recent times that most importers of feeds have suddenly increased their prices citing scarce forex, among others.
This development is worrisome and should be looked into immediately by the government as this will impact negatively on the agric value chain.
By implication, the cost of fishes will rise astronomically and we believe this will be a big burden on the Nigerian citizens at this period.
We hereby appeal to both the national and the sub national governments (Federal and State Government) to urgently intervene as suggested below:
1. Ease provision and procurement of forex for fish farmers and other farmers through the Central Bank of Nigeria and other windows.
2. Provide waivers and tax holidays to fish feed importers to enable them import more fish feeds at subsidized rate.
3. Provide soft intervention credit facilities to fish farmers through their various associations in this regards
4. Make adequate waivers or mobility passes for the transportation of fish and fish products across the country
This we believe will not jeopardize the efforts being put in place by the federal government to mitigate the effects of the hardship the pandemic may cost us.
SIGNED
MALLAM, BUHARI SULYMAN
ACTING CHAIRMAN.
Kwara State Fish Farmers Association (KWAFFA)
20th April, 2020.
