Boosting Pader’s Economy: Officials Call for Value Addition and Food Standards

6 May 2025, 10:19

By Ekel Bonny Daniel

Local investors in Pader District have been urged to prioritize value addition and adherence to food safety standards to enhance the quality of agricultural products and boost market competitiveness.

Speaking during a capacity-building training organized by the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives (MTIC) at the district headquarters on Monday, the Pader District Commercial Officer, Mr. Micheal Ojok, emphasized the urgent need for agricultural producers and local manufacturers to move beyond raw production and embrace value addition.

“With the skills acquired from this training, it’s time for our producers to improve the quality and marketability of their products,” Ojok said. “By adding value, we not only reduce losses but also ensure our goods meet safety and quality standards that allow access to better markets.”

He further stressed the importance of proper record-keeping, describing it as the foundation of financial stability, legal compliance, and effective business operations. “Accurate records support growth, aid in risk management, and enable strategic decision-making,” he added.

The training attracted various stakeholders including cooperative societies, local leaders, and district officials. Among the participants was Leonora Abalo Okello, 72, Chairperson of the Pader Shea Butter and Agro-Processing Cooperative Society based in Ogwaleng Valley Cell, Luna Parish. She praised the session, noting that it addressed long-standing challenges her group has faced in managing finances and improving product quality.

“This training comes at the right time. We’ve been struggling with tracking our sales and improving our shea butter for competitive markets. Record-keeping and value addition are game changers,” said Abalo.

Representing the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer, Anek Joyes Onge, the Personal Assistant Secretary, commended the Ministry for the initiative and encouraged participants to apply the knowledge gained.

“Capacity-building like this is essential for cooperative growth and increasing household incomes,” she noted.

Meanwhile, Okwir Charles Ray, the LC5 Councilor for Pader Sub-county, who spoke on behalf of the District Chairperson Obwoya Fearless Oyat, called for routine inspection of food products in local restaurants and markets to ensure they comply with health and safety standards.

“Enhancing food quality is not only about business it’s about public health and consumer trust,” said Okwir.

Komakech Robert Obina, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner of Pader, concluded by commending the Ministry’s efforts and called for more regular training sessions to empower local producers.

“Let’s use the skills we’ve acquired to build a stronger local economy. Value addition and compliance with food standards are essential if we want to see real development,” Komakech said.

As Pader District seeks to uplift its agricultural sector, stakeholders agree that ensuring food production meets standards, along with proper documentation and quality enhancement, are crucial for achieving economic transformation and improved livelihoods.