African countries have been urged to synergise towards addressing challenges facing the Agricultural sector and harness its potentials for the continent’s prosperity.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, gave the charge at the launch of the Incorporated Society of Planters, Africa Chapter, at the weekend in Abuja.
The ISP is aimed at promoting value addition in farming and as well as the general interests of the planting profession.
Kyari said the occasion marked a significant milestone in the development of the agricultural sector not only in Nigeria, but across the African continent, especially in the areas of tackling food insecurity.
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He said the establishment of the society underscored the collective commitment in advancing the interest of planters and promoting sustainable agricultural practices that are crucial to the prosperity and wellbeing of our people.
“Agriculture remains the backbone of our economy, providing livelihood for millions of farmers and contributing significantly to our nation’s food security, economic growth and social development.
“The theme of today’s launch ‘sustainable plantation agriculture for Africa’s future’ resonates with our national priority and aspirations”, the Minister said.
In his Keynote address, the Embed Advisor, Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships, African Development Bank (AfDB), Richard-Mark Mbaram, said the launch of the African Chapter of ISP aligns perfectly with the Bank’s objectives.
He said by bringing together agricultural experts, industry stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers, the ISP fosters a collaborative environment that promotes innovation, knowledge sharing, and the adoption of sustainable practices in agriculture.
Mbaram further stated that by supporting initiatives such as the ISP Africa Chapter, the AfDB aims to leverage agricultural development as a catalyst for broader economic transformation across the continent.
“Our goal is to modernize agriculture by introducing advanced farming techniques, improving access to quality seeds and fertilizers, and investing in irrigation infrastructure. The ISP’s commitment to excellence in plantation management will play a crucial role in achieving these objectives
“Food security is a cornerstone of the AfDB’s mission. By supporting initiatives that increase crop yields and reduce post-harvest losses, the ISP Africa Chapter contributes directly to this goal, ensuring that African nations can feed their populations and reduce dependence on food imports
“Smallholder farmers are the heart of Africa’s agricultural sector. The ISP’s focus on capacity building and professional development will empower these farmers, improve their productivity, and enhance their livelihoods, thereby promoting inclusive economic growth
“Sustainability is at the core of our development agenda. The ISP’s emphasis on sustainable plantation practices will help mitigate the impacts of climate change, protect natural resources, and ensure the long-term viability of Africa’s agricultural sector”, he noted.
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