By Ibrahim Muhammad
The Jigawa Agricultural Transformation Agency (JATA), in collaboration with HarvestPlus, has unveiled biofortified zinc rice varieties as part of efforts to improve nutrition and strengthen food security across Jigawa State.
The initiative was showcased during a Brown Field Day held at Auno in Kafin Hausa Local Government Area, where farmers, agricultural experts, extension officers and other stakeholders gathered to assess the performance of the improved rice varieties, FARO 71 and FARO 72, and learn about their nutritional and economic advantages.
Speaking at the event, the Director-General of JATA, Dr. Saifullahi Umar, represented by the Director of Analytics, Dr. Rahama Muhammad, said the introduction of zinc-enriched rice was aimed at addressing hidden hunger by increasing access to nutrient-rich food for vulnerable populations.
He explained that zinc is an essential micronutrient required for healthy growth, stronger immunity and improved maternal and child health, stressing that promoting biofortified crops forms part of the agency’s broader strategy to build a healthier and more food-secure Jigawa.
Also speaking, the Country Director of HarvestPlus, represented by Malam Abdullahi Said, said regular consumption of zinc rice could provide about 40 per cent of the daily zinc requirement for women and children, thereby helping to reduce micronutrient deficiencies and improve overall public health.
He noted that the two improved rice varieties—FARO 71 and FARO 72—contain 24.18 milligrams and 25.24 milligrams of zinc per kilogram respectively.
According to him, the varieties also offer high and stable yields, resistance to major pests and diseases, and adaptability to Jigawa’s farming conditions, making them a profitable option for rice farmers.
The Brown Field Day gave participants the opportunity to observe the performance of the rice varieties under field conditions, interact with researchers and extension personnel, and exchange experiences ahead of their wider adoption across the state.
JATA reaffirmed its commitment to driving agricultural transformation through innovation, improved value chains, farmer empowerment and sustainable food systems.
Also Speaking at the event, Director Delivery JATA, Dr. Isah Musa said, the agency’s partnership with HarvestPlus reflects the state’s determination to promote climate-smart and nutrition-sensitive agriculture capable of improving both agricultural productivity and public health.
He said, HarvestPlus, an international organisation that promotes biofortified crops enriched with essential vitamins and minerals, continues to work with governments and development partners to improve nutrition through agriculture.
He therefore called on farmers to adopt the improved zinc rice varieties and on consumers to include the nutritious rice in their daily meals, in line with the campaign message: “Better Crops, Better Nutrition.”
