"The workshop is helping me to understand how to ensure sustainability of the value chain approach"

For Abu Yusuf Kankia, the National Programme Coordinator for IFAD-CBARDP in Nigeria, the Regional Workshop is a chance to review programme performance and plan for improved implementation strategies.

"The biggest issue for us in northern Nigeria is food security," said Mr Kankia, who coordinates programmes from Katsina state. "We're looking at ways to work more effectively with farmer groups for food security, as well as continuing to produce commodities that can be sold in order to boost incomes."

Another thought he will take away from the workshop is the importance of good timing. "I've learnt the timeliness of implementing these activities," he said. "Much has been said on this issue. Another area we'll be looking into on our return is to engage service providers to assign activities to; delegation is very important so as not to overload ourselves."