In a significant step towards modernizing the livestock industry, the Ebonyi State Government has committed ₦150 million as counterpart funding for the establishment of a World Bank-supported Automated Integration Ranch System in Ezzamgbo, Ohaukwu Local Government Area.

The initiative, implemented under the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), is designed to enhance livestock productivity, promote climate-smart practices, and strengthen animal health systems across the state.

According to Mr. Victor Nwite, Ebonyi’s L-PRES Project Coordinator, the ranch will feature state-of-the-art infrastructure, including:

• A fully equipped veterinary hospital
• Diagnostic laboratories
• Cold chain facilities
• Smart training centers
• Dedicated spaces for cattle, pigs, goats, and sheep

“This project is a bold vision for transforming livestock production in Ebonyi. It aligns with climate-smart agriculture goals and supports sustainable livestock value chains,” said Nwite.

The ranch system is part of a broader mission to diversify the state’s economy and strengthen food security through efficient livestock systems. The automated nature of the facility is expected to optimize animal rearing, reduce post-harvest losses, and support value addition through processing.

In addition to infrastructure, L-PRES has embarked on extensive capacity-building across the state:

• Over 14,000 livestock farmers have been profiled and trained on good animal husbandry practices, biosecurity, and productivity-enhancing techniques like artificial insemination.
• Veterinarians, para-veterinarians, and extension agents have been trained and equipped.
• The state procured 15 motorcycles to improve veterinary outreach in rural communities.
• Upgrades are underway for five slaughter slabs, alongside the development of a standard abattoir and pig processing market.

The project also supports live bird market improvements and has launched a poultry processing unit to ensure the availability of day-old chicks across different zones of the state.

Furthermore, in its commitment to prevent zoonotic diseases, L-PRES has facilitated free Anthrax vaccinations across the state.

Mr. Nwite expressed gratitude to the Ebonyi State Governor for prioritizing livestock development and facilitating multi-sectoral collaboration with the Federal Government and the World Bank.

This milestone positions Ebonyi as a front-runner in integrated livestock development, laying the groundwork for a resilient, commercially viable, and health-focused animal agriculture sector.