- Launches world hunger day, drums support for smallholder farmers
By Hillary Asemota
The Federal Government through the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), on Sunday 28, 2023 reiterated the urgency of use of agricultural biotechnology to end the ravaging hunger, food insecurity, malnutrition and poverty in Nigeria and other developing nations.
This is coming on the heels of the launch of the National Farmers Day (NFD) to commemorate the World Hunger Day (WHG), by the agency in Abuja.
The Director General of NABDA, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, said the overarching aim of the event is to drum support for the deployment and use of agricultural biotechnology through Genetically Modified Technology (GM) crops to end hunger in Nigeria, Africa and other developing countries.
While underscoring urgency to combat hunger, the DG, said the WHG was organized as part of the Launch of ‘National Farmers Day’ organised by the Alliance for Science (AfS) in collaboration with the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) in Africa, Nigeria Chapter, under the auspices of the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA) and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), Nairobi, Kenya.
The WHD, he added is observed on May 28th each year as an opportunity to raise awareness about the issue of hunger and food insecurity that affects millions of people around the world.
While there have been significant strides made in reducing hunger and malnutrition, he added that there is still much work to be done.
He said: “One way to address the issue of hunger is by supporting and recognizing the contributions of Smallholder Farmers (SFs), who grow crops and foods that are the backbone of the food systems in Nigeria, Africa and developing countries.
“This is why we are bringing together a cream of distinguished personalities to discuss ways of promoting sustainable agricultural practices that will support government efforts in addressing the challenges of food and nutritional security.
On critical points to note, Mustapha said: • According to the United Nations, an estimated 811 million people worldwide were undernourished in 2020, • Malnutrition is a leading cause of death for children under the age of 5. It is estimated that 45% of all child deaths are due to malnutrition, • Women and girls are disproportionately affected by hunger and malnutrition. They make up 60% of the world’s hungry population.
• Africa is the continent most affected by hunger, with over 250 million people undernourished, • Hunger and malnutrition are often linked to poverty, with nearly 9 out of 10 hungry people living in developing countries.
According to him, the dinner which is being organized by the agency is a rare opportunity to honor farmers and raise awareness about the important role they play in ensuring food security, and at the same time discuss the importance of National Farmers Day and how it can be implemented in the country.
The dinner features traditional foods, alongside dishes prepared using improved crop varieties of such as hybrids and GM crops like Bt. Cowpea, adding that the event also highlights the importance of scientific innovations in tackling the food crisis.
NABDA, he said is responsible for the deployment of biotechnology tools in the development of Nigeria is doing everything possible to deploy the science of GM technology to combat hunger, hidden hunger, and other forms of malnutrition.
However, he said the fight for food and nutrition security can better be won as a team and for that reason, we cannot thank Alliance for Science (AfS) Global South, the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) enough for their unflinching support and partnership in this journey towards ending hunger.
In a remark, Dr Rose Maxwell Gidado, Director, Agricultural Biotechnology Department, NABDA, said since the WHD was launched in 2011 by the Hunger Project in 2011, it has used the opportunity to raise awareness about the issues of hunger and food insecurity that affects millions of people around the world.
He reiterated that one way to address the challenge of hunger is by supporting and recognizing the contributions of smallholder farmers who grow crops and foods that are the backbone of the food systems in these countries.
According to her, the goal of the launch of National Farmers Day is to honour and recognize the hard work of farmers who feed their communities and country.
Gidado, said: “The occasion will be used to create a platform for stakeholders to discuss the importance of NFD and how it can be implemented in each country.
“Momentum created for the implementation of National Farmers Day in the Nigeria, which will help to support and recognize the contributions of farmers and strengthen food system in the country.
While also making his contribution, the AATF Regional Representative for West Africa Dr Jean Baptiste, appreciated the incredible contributions and hard work of our Nigeria’s farmers.
Baptiste, said: “It is a day to honor the backbone of our society, the men and women who toil tirelessly to feed our nation and sustain our agricultural heritage.
“First and foremost, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to all the farmers present here and those across the country. Your unwavering dedication and relentless efforts play an instrumental role in ensuring food security, not just for our nation but for the world at large.
“Through your commitment and resilience, you provide sustenance and nourishment to millions of people, and for that, we are truly indebted to you.
“Today, as we gather, let us take a moment to reflect on the challenges faced by our farmers. The agricultural sector has always been subject to numerous uncertainties and adversities, be it unpredictable weather patterns, pests, diseases, or market fluctuations.”
“Despite these hurdles, our farmers have consistently risen to the occasion, adapting to changing circumstances and embracing innovative practices to ensure a bountiful harvest.
“I am proud to acknowledge that our nation’s farmers have not only excelled in traditional farming methods but have also embraced modern technology and sustainable practices.
“By integrating advancements such as biotechnology in agriculture, you are not only increasing productivity but also minimizing environmental impact. Your commitment to sustainable agriculture sets an exemplary standard for the entire world.
He said the critical role that farmers play in preserving our cultural heritage, should not be forgotten, adding: “Our farming traditions, passed down through generations, connect us to our roots and remind us of the profound relationship we share with the land.
“Your deep respect for the land, your stewardship, and your understanding of the delicate balance between human progress and nature’s rhythms are invaluable.
As we celebrate NFD, let us also acknowledge the need for continued support and investment in the agricultural sector. Governments, organizations, and society as a whole must come together to ensure that our farmers have access to resources, knowledge, and infrastructure necessary for their prosperity.
According to him, there is need to create to create an enabling environment that fosters innovation, empowers small-scale farmers, and promotes equitable agricultural practices.
The AATF boss, said: “I salute the indomitable spirit of our farmers. Your unwavering commitment, resilience, and dedication are an inspiration to us all.
“Your work ensures that no one goes to bed hungry and that our nation thrives. Let us continue to cherish, support, and celebrate our farmers not only today but every day. Together, we can build a future where agriculture flourishes, and our farmers stand tall, nurturing the soil and feeding the world.
