Hunger is more than just a lack of food; it is a crisis that affects lives, weakens communities, and hinders progress. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), over 733 million people worldwide suffered from hunger in 2023, with Sub-Saharan Africa being one of the hardest-hit regions.
Katsina State, in northwestern Nigeria, faces serious food insecurity due to economic challenges, inflation, and insecurity. About 50% of the state’s population struggles to get enough food, especially in rural areas. Bandit attacks, conflicts, and displacement have made it even harder for people to farm and feed their families.
To tackle this crisis, the Africa Youth Growth Foundation (AYGF), in partnership with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), launched the General Food Assistance – Cash-Based Transfers (GFA-CBT) Project. This program helps families by giving them direct financial support instead of just handing out food, allowing them to buy what they need based on their dietary requirements.
With 79,920 beneficiaries across five Local Government Areas (LGAs)—Batsari, Danmusa, Dutsinma, Safana, and Kurfi—the project provides both financial assistance and essential food items. Each individual gets ₦11,800 per month, plus an extra ₦400 for cooking fuel, while a family of five can receive ₦61,000 monthly. This support ensures that people have both money to buy food and direct access to key food supplies.
Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children under two need extra nutrition. That’s why this project includes nutrition top-ups through a voucher-based system, helping these vulnerable groups stay healthy and reducing malnutrition in the region.
The project doesn’t just help individuals; it also supports the economy. By working with 75 local vendors across the five LGAs, AYGF ensures that food is readily available while also creating business opportunities. When families have money to buy food, businesses grow, and the economy strengthens.
Managing such a large project requires careful planning. To ensure transparency and efficiency, AYGF and WFP held a training program for field officers on January 11-12 at the General Hospital Katsina Multipurpose Hall. This training covered cash distribution, data collection, and proper engagement with beneficiaries, ensuring that aid reaches those who need it fairly and securely.
AYGF has a strong history of fighting hunger and poverty in Nigeria. The GFA-CBT project in Katsina is a shining example of how strategic partnerships can make a real difference. With continued support from WFP and other stakeholders, thousands of families now have a renewed sense of hope.
This project is not just about giving out cash; it’s about restoring dignity, empowering communities, and ensuring that every person has the right to food. As AYGF continues its mission, one thing is certain: where there is action, there is hope.
