Harnessing nature’s microbes: sustainable agricultural solutions for sub-Saharan Africa
Agriculture is a vital sector in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). It contributes an average of 25% to the gross domestic product and provides sustenance for nearly 80% of the rural population. However, the region remains the most food insecure globally. Increasing agricultural productivity is the primary objective for SSA, but this goal is partly hindered by low crop yields caused by pests and declining soil productivity. Although several solutions are available, many prove ineffective against various challenges, particularly soil ones. They also pose many difficulties regarding their impact – biodiversity loss, food safety and soil productivity – all stemming from excessive use and unregulated application. These challenges can be addressed by developing low-risk and alternative products based on nature-based solutions that utilize beneficial soil microorganisms. CABI is collaborating with partners to increase the use of nature-based solutions in agrifood systems in SSA.
Biological control of blueweed
Blueweed, Echium vulgare, is a biennial plant native to Europe and Asia that has become a problematic weed in pasture and rangelands of North America where it is classed as noxious. Biological control can be used to help manage the weed. CABI has been tasked with identifying and studying specialist natural enemies from Europe and Asia that can be potentially introduced into North America as biological control agents.