Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has called for urgent global action to improve food security and enhance collaboration among stakeholders to support farmers in adopting climate-smart agricultural practices and technologies. He made this call in commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day on July 18, 2023.
Governor Obaseki emphasized the pressing challenge of climate change, which poses a threat to the planet and communities, affecting agriculture, livelihoods, and the environment. He highlighted the projected impact of climate change on Africa, stating that an estimated 43 million people in the continent could fall below the poverty line due to crop failures and hunger caused by climate change.
To address these challenges, the governor stressed the need for better policies and sustained partnerships to support climate-smart agriculture across the agriculture and food value chains. This approach aims to enhance food productivity while improving climate resilience.
In Edo State, Governor Obaseki mentioned the government’s efforts to address climate change’s impact on agriculture and food production. The state is collaborating with the private sector and other stakeholders to empower smallholder farmers, providing them with access to resources and technology, and promoting sustainable farming practices that protect the environment and increase productivity.
By promoting climate-smart agriculture and encouraging global cooperation, Governor Obaseki seeks to achieve food sufficiency and combat the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture and communities in Edo State and beyond.