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.
GIZ Crop Protection Baseline Study
Pests and diseases often limit how much smallholder famers can produce. They affect crops both pre and post-harvest by reducing their value or making them unsafe for human consumption. Farmers try to reduce losses through a range of techniques, some of which have human or environmental health impacts. This project aims to understand and report on current crop protection practices and identify the most effective, safe and innovative options to integrate into GIZs programmes in 14 countries.
Using insects to improve smallholders livestock production and food security in West Africa
Poultry farming is practised by almost all smallholder farmers in West Africa but feed and protein sources are becoming increasingly expensive here, affecting meat and egg production and reducing family income. Fish farmers suffer a similar problem. We are promoting the use of insects, which are a natural food source for poultry and fish, and endorsed by the FAO as a tool to alleviate poverty.