Food Security: ActionAid to equip 120,000 farmers with agroecological skills
ActionAid Nigeria announced plans to empower 120,000 women and youth farmers with agroecological skills to combat high food prices and hunger in Nigeria. This initiative aims to improve food security and nutrition by providing access to early-maturing seeds, seedlings, livestock, and poultry. The three-year project, supported by various organizations including the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and the Global Environment Facility, focuses on promoting agroecological practices and preserving indigenous seeds and biodiversity. Implementation spans across Ondo, Delta, Ebonyi, Jigawa, and the FCT, targeting smallholder women farmers and young people. The initiative underscores the critical role of women in food production and seeks to encourage youth participation in farming for sustainable agriculture and reduced unemployment. Additionally, researchers emphasize the importance of agroecology in promoting healthy diets and combating food-related diseases in Nigeria. Source- Vanguard
Our Review:
ActionAid Nigeria’s initiative to equip 120,000 women and youth farmers with agroecological skills is a pivotal step towards enhancing food security in Nigeria. By promoting agroecological practices and providing access to resources like early maturing seeds and livestock, the project supports sustainable agriculture and biodiversity preservation. Empowering women, who constitute the majority of Nigeria’s food producers, not only strengthens the agricultural workforce but also contributes to poverty reduction and economic growth. Additionally, encouraging young people to engage in farming fosters a deeper understanding of the agricultural value chain, potentially reducing unemployment rates. The emphasis on indigenous seeds and traditional diets underscores the importance of local knowledge and nutrition in combating food-related diseases. Overall, this initiative holds promise for transforming Nigeria’s agri-food sector and fostering inclusive growth.
