A Non-Governmental Organization Cal-Maji foundation has called on the government and the people of Kogi State to embrace a bold vision to make the State the organic capital of Nigeria and Africa through investment and the practice of regenerative agriculture, including agroecology and agroforestry.
Our Kogi State Correspondent, reprots that the Project Director of Cal Maji Foundation Faith Ayegba made the call at a press briefing in Lokoja on Monday.
Ayegba asserted that with the increasing challenges of climate change, soil degradation, and food insecurity, there is pressing need for Kogi State to adopt more sustainable agriculture practices.
According to her, food security is no longer a distant concern; it is an immediate priority. Recent data shows that food security and malnutrition are on the rise, impacting the livelihoods and health of thousands of people.
" The state's current agricultural practices, which often rely on chemical inputs and monocultures, are not sustainable in the long run. They degrade the soil, reduce biodiversity, and make our food stem vulnerable to climate shocks.
It is vital that we protect our rural farmers from potential risks of genetically modified (GM) seeds.
" While genetically modified seeds may promise higher yields, they often require specific chemical inputs and can reduce crop diversity, making farming systems less resilient. We should focus on empowering our farmers with sustainable practices that utilize locally adapted seeds and agroecological techniques. This will strengthen our rural communities and ensure long-term food security.
"To secure the future of our people, it is imperative that we shift towards practices that restore and sustain our land, protect our environment, and ensure that nutritious food is available to all. This can be achieved by investing in organic farming, agroecology, and agro forestry".
She highlighted sustainable soil health, biodiversity conservation, healthier food, economic opportunities as some of the benefits of organic agriculture and agroecology.
While admonishing the Kogi State Government to introduce policies that encourage and incentivize farmers to adopt organic farming and agroecologocal practices, Ayegba further admonished them to invest in training programs for farmers, extension workers, agricultural officers on the benefits and practice of organic agriculture.
"The time to act is now. By embracing organic farming and regenerative agriculture, Kopi State can become a leader in sustainable agriculture, not just in Nigeria, but across Africa. We urge the government, private sector, and the people of Kogi State to join hands in this transformative journey. Together, we can build a food-secure future that prioritizes our health, our environment and our economic prosperity"Ayegba stated.
Copyright: Fresh Angle International (www.freshangleng.com)
ISSN 2354 - 4104
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