Foundation unveils first ever solar grinding machine in Plateau’s historic Kofyar Hill Settlement
The people of Kofyar, residing in the historic Kofyar Hill Settlement are beginning to feel signs of development with the commissioning of a first ever solar-powered grinding machine.The machine is capable of processing 300 kilograms of grain per hour.
Kofyar hill settlement is located in Qua’an Pan Local Government Area of Plateau State, North central Nigeria. It is a hilltop settlement situated between range hills on the southern edge of the Jos Plateau .
The event, which also saw the groundbreaking commissioning of a new community centre marked a significant milestone in the ongoing “Socio-economic Revival of Kofyar Hill Settlement (2022-2024)” project, funded by the Gerda Henkel Foundation.
The Project Coordinator and Chairman of the local partner institution, Vernacular Heritage Initiative (VHI), Dr. Olukoya Obafemi, said the the community centre is a testament to the revival of indigenous architectural practices, was constructed using vernacular building traditions and locally sourced materials from the Mernyang mountains.
Speaking during the ceremony, Obafemi said the community center is not just a building; it is a symbol of our commitment to preserving our heritage while embracing modern advancements. Obafemi , who led the tour of the new facility. highlighted the building’s unique design, emphasizing its cultural significance and sustainability.
He said, “Vernacular architecture is more than just a building style—it is a sustainable practice that embodies cultural heritage, skill preservation, and environmental responsibility,”
Dr. Olukoya explained, “Moreover, the use of vernacular techniques has helped preserve traditional building skills that have been passed down through generations.
“This not only ensures the continuity of local craftsmanship but also empowers the community by providing employment opportunities and fostering a sense of pride in their heritage. “Every brick, every stone in this building tells a story of our ancestors,”
Dr. Olukoya added, highlighting the cultural significance of the new community center.”The community center serves as a hub for various economic activities.
“The facility includes a vocational training center, a grinding room, and several shops designated for skills such as tailoring, barbing, and cobbling, among others.
“Powered entirely by a solar energy installation, the building represents a fusion of tradition and innovation, showcasing how ancient practices can be adapted to meet modern needs. “In a region that has never had access to electricity since its formation in 200 AD, the solar-powered facility is a transformative development. Solar energy plays a crucial role in this project, especially in remote areas like Kofyar where access to conventional electricity is scarce.
“The solar installation not only provides reliable power but also exemplifies a sustainable energy solution that aligns with the principles of vernacular architecture—working with the environment rather than against it.
“The installation not only provides reliable power but also underscores the importance of sustainable energy solutions in improving the quality of life in rural communities.
The solar-powered grinding machine, as the first of its kind in Nigeria, the machine was met with excitement and joy by the local community. Obafemi underscored the machine’s significance, stating, “This innovation will greatly enhance the Kofyar people’s ability to compete in the local markets in the lowland areas by allowing them to sell processed farm produce. It also spares them the exhausting four-hour trek down the mountain to access grinding services.”
The traditional ruler of the community, Chief John Datok, expressed profound gratitude to the Gerda Henkel Foundation for its unwavering support over the past four years.
He also praised Dr. Olukoya and his team for their dedication to the project, which has brought much-needed development and economic prosperity to Kofyar. “Kofyar prosperity has begun,” he said.
In his remarks, Mr. Kevin Daken, Chairman of the Kofyar Community Development, hailed the project as a new chapter in the economic prosperity of the Kofyar people. “This project has set us on a path to a brighter future,” he said, thanking the Gerda Henkel Foundation and Dr. Olukoya for their efforts.
He expressed hope that future initiatives would include the provision of water to ensure smooth running of the new community centre.
The commissioning ceremony concluded with a vibrant display of traditional dance by the local community, celebrating the dawn of a new era for Kofyar.
This event marks a significant step forward for the Kofyar Hill Settlement, heralding a future of economic growth and sustainable development.
