Stakeholders offer agroecology as solution to food inflation

To address the rising food inflation in Nigeria, agricultural stakeholders are advocating for agroecology to reduce the negative impacts of chemical use in food production. They argue that chemical fertilizers and pesticides have degraded the soil, reducing crop yields, and thus emphasize the need to switch to organic fertilizers and pesticides.
Mr. Azubike Nwokoye, Programme Manager for Strategic Partnerships for Agroecology and Climate Justice in West Africa (SPAC-West Africa), announced that ActionAid International, in collaboration with ECOWAS, is implementing a three-year project across Liberia, Nigeria, and Senegal. This project aims to improve agroecology knowledge among smallholder women farmers.
At a virtual media training workshop for journalists in the participating countries, Nwokoye explained that the SPAC-West Africa project is funded by the ActionAid International Transformative Impact Fund (TIF) with £2.4 million. ActionAid Nigeria is leading and coordinating the ECOWAS and continental engagements.
The project aims to eliminate chemical inputs, improve productivity, and increase incomes through diversified livelihoods. Additionally, it will enhance access to grants, credit, land, inputs, labor-saving technologies, and extension services for smallholder women farmers and youth. The project will also explore new methods to encourage private sector support for climate-resilient agriculture and ethical practices.
Source: The Guardian

OUR REVIEW
Advocating for agroecology in Nigeria is crucial for combating rising food inflation and mitigating chemical-induced soil degradation. Transitioning to organic fertilizers and pesticides can improve soil health and crop yields. Mr. Azubike Nwokoye’s announcement of a three-year agroecology project by ActionAid International and ECOWAS signifies a significant step in this direction. By enhancing knowledge among smallholder women farmers in Liberia, Nigeria, and Senegal, the project aims to eliminate chemical inputs and boost productivity. With £2.4 million in funding, the initiative also targets improving access to resources and promoting climate-resilient agriculture. This holistic approach not only benefits farmers but also fosters sustainable growth throughout the agri-food value chain.