From Okwe Obi, Abuja
Some agriculturists have proposed the decarbonisation of cropping systems in Nigeria in order to boost crop productivity, mitigate climate change impact and avert food crises.
These experts made that proposal, at the 2024 Annual Stakeholder meeting held at National Agricultural Research Institutes (NAERLS) in Zaria.
President of Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA), Dr Makoto Kitanaka, said the organisation would continue to advance the decarbonisation of cropping systems across Africa through the promotion of what he called ‘climate-smart practices.’
Decarbonisation of cropping systems refers to the process of reducing carbon emissions associated with agricultural practices while simultaneously enhancing carbon sequestration in soils
Dr Kitanaka explained that climate-smart initiatives such as the use of “Bokashi and Biochar” were profitable in raising the productivity frontier of key crops as well as improving soil health, adding that SAA was promoting those technologies in Nasarawa State in under a grant from the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
“The project is empowering rice farmers to build resilience and mitigate the impacts of climate change,” he explained.
He underscored the role of collaboration among stakeholders, stressing that “As we unite with the shared goal of advancing the agricultural sector amidst evolving global challenges, “collaborative efforts are crucial for achieving sustainable food security.”
Also SAA Nigeria’s Country Director, Dr Godwin Atser, highlighted the challenges faced by Nigerian farmers, including low productivity, poverty, and the escalating impact of climate change.
Atser emphasised the need for interventions like the promotion, adoption of new seed varieties, the right use of chemical fertiliser, and strengthening linkages between farmers and quality inputs and markets.
The workshop delved into the crucial role of climate-smart agriculture in ensuring food security and tackling global challenges.
The technical presentations were made on diverse topics like “COP 28 Goals and Objectives: Implications for Agriculture,” “Unlocking Carbon Credit Opportunities for Smallholder Farmers,” and “Regenerative Agriculture: Boosting Soil Health in Africa, etc.” The event fostered knowledge exchange and showcased successful initiatives.