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The annual conference of the Mbaitsooghve NKST (Nongu u Kristu u i Ser u sha Tar) women’s fellowship served as a significant platform for a major policy announcement by the State Governor. At the event held at the NKST Central Make in Gboko, Governor Alia unveiled an ambitious economic transformation policy aimed at boosting local processing and curbing the export of raw materials.
The Governor highlighted that the policy, strategically timed with the imminent take-off of the state’s fruit juice company, is poised to offer better prices and guaranteed offtake to orchard owners and producers of soybeans and yams. This economic initiative seeks to stimulate job creation and wealth generation across the agricultural value chain while discouraging the export of unprocessed agricultural produce.
During the occasion, Governor Alia commended the NKST women for their unwavering support during and after the general elections. He announced financial support to ensure the completion of their national secretariat. Additionally, he promised government intervention to the University of Mkar, Mkar, the state’s only missionary university, and supported the NKST orphanage home with 2000 bags of rice and an undisclosed amount of cash.
The Governor also extended his condolences to the NKST women over the unfortunate deaths of members Atese Mlanga and Mrs. Joy Terhemba, known as Kwasehemen. Atese Mlanga lost her life in a tragic accident while traveling to the last conference, while Mrs. Terhemba was involved in a ghastly accident en route to the current conference. The Governor pledged to cover the medical bills of Mrs. Terhemba, offering solace to the affected families.
The Governor’s entourage, flanked by a high-powered delegation of Commissioners, advisors, and party stakeholders, was formally received by the leadership of the NKST women, led by Kwasehemen Mnzough Ukase, Atese Ruth Mnena Iortyom, and others. Speaking at the event, Governor Alia emphasized that oranges, soybeans, and yams produced in the state will only be sold within the state effective December 2025 unless traders pay excess taxes for exportation.
This move, the Governor stated, is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the local economy and support agricultural producers. The policy announcement has sparked discussions among stakeholders, with many anticipating its impact on the state’s agricultural sector.
Reported by Lanshima Ephraim for Ohitty TV/Radio
