Makurdi: Dr Raymond Asemakaha, Managing Director of Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC), announced that the newly established BIPC Juice/Concentrate Factories are set to significantly reduce post-harvest losses for orange and mango farmers. The announcement was made during a technical assessment of the factories’ newly installed 62,000-litre capacity juice/concentrate machine.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the initiative aligns with Gov. Hyacinth Alia’s economic agenda, focusing on reviving industries, agricultural value chains, and sustainable job creation. Asemakaha revealed that operations at the concentrate factory would officially commence on July 2, while the main juice production line is scheduled to begin in September. He emphasized the importance of utilizing the state’s abundant agricultural produce to stimulate industrial growth and reduce waste, thereby providing employment opportunities and building a self-reliant Benue.

Mr Frank Runge, Managing Director of SONO Group, conducted the assessment and expressed satisfaction with the readiness and quality of machinery installed at the factories. He pledged SONO Group’s continued technical support to ensure seamless operation. Known for its expertise in industrial-scale juice processing, SONO Group is committed to making BIPC’s facilities a model for agro-processing in West Africa.

Mr Henry Boager, the maintenance officer of BIPC, conducted a detailed walkthrough of the facility, showcasing the various components of the processing lines. He highlighted the factory’s technical capacity, which can produce 62,000 litres of processed juice per hour. Boager noted that the machinery is designed to minimize waste, maximize yield, and operate efficiently, which is crucial for preventing fruit spoilage and enhancing profitability for local farmers. The factory marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to industrialize the Benue agricultural sector.