Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has unveiled a N4 billion investment in consumer shops dubbed ‘Rumbun Sauki’ to enhance food security and economic stability across the state.
The initiative was launched during a sensitization and registration program at the state secretariat, Katsina.
Speaking at the launch, Governor Radda noted that the state government will commence sales with a 10% subsidy for state workers, local government employees, LEA staff, and elderly persons.
The Governor detailed that operations would begin with seven centres – three in Katsina, and two each in Daura and Funtua senatorial zones.
He emphasized strict oversight measures, warning that, “any managers of the program found involved in any wrongdoing would face the full wrath of the law.”
Deputy Governor Malam Faruk Lawal Jobe noted the economic impact of the initiative. “With the huge investment of about four billion naira on the procurement of commodities, vendors would annually make a turnover of not less than fifty billion naira, considering the level of economic activities that will accompany these transactions,” he stated.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Economy, Engr. Yakubu Nuhu Danja, detailed that the commodities to be provided under the program include rice, flour, corn, flour, and spaghetti.
“The items would be packaged in various sizes from fifty to one kilogram,” Engineer Danja emphasized adding, “Rumbun Sauki is not just a government initiative but also a lifeline for families and individuals facing economic hardship,” he said.
Also speaking, Dr. Shuaibu Mohammed of Strangler Integrated Value Chain and Services, the program consultant, explained the registration process, noting that “all eligible beneficiaries are expected to register online to have full access to the commodities using ATM or monie point accounts and Internet transactions.”