A United Nations agency head has advised the
government to train small scale farmers in innovative agriculture to prevent
drought.
International
Fund for Agricultural Development (Ifad) outgoing president Kanayo F. Nwanze
said most people in developing countries, especially those living in rural
areas, are affected by drought because they lack funding to venture into
innovative farming ideas.
“As
a scientist, I cannot overemphasize how important scientific research is in
contributing to increased food security.
“We
have to continue to invest in agricultural research for development if we want
to meet the Sustainable Development Goals devoted to ending poverty and hunger
by 2030,” Mr Nwanze said.
To
boost agriculture, Ifad and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture
(CIAT) signed a partnership that will see new climate-smart technologies and
innovations developed by CIAT available to smallholder farmers participating in
Ifad-supported projects in developing countries.
The
partnership will also see various agricultural funded projects rolled across
the world.
CIAT
Director-General Ruben Echeverria said: “Like Ifad, CIAT understands that
small-scale agriculture, especially in tropical areas, must become more robust,
resilient, efficient and sustainable, so that it can meet the growing demand
for food and resources, while offering profitable pathways out of poverty.”
Source: The Nation
