Newscenter Media News In its bid to promote adoption of agroecology in Akwa Ibom State, a Civil Society Organisation, Clement Isong Foundation, CIF, has called on relevant ministries, departments and agencies in the state to harmonize their policies and create market linkages that would be beneficial to the people as well as the environment.
This was part of the resolutions taken at the end of a one day Agroecology Knowledge sharing in Uyo on Thursday, themed, ‘Strengthening the Network of Actors for the Promotion of Agroecology in Akwa Ibom State’, which was organized by CIF with support from ActionAid Nigeria.
The keynote speaker, Howard Usen while speaking on ‘Market Systems Approach to Agroecology and Sales’, observed that policy inconsistencies and a lack of harmonization among government agencies hinder the widespread adoption of agroecology.
He urged government to look into it and ensure balance in all sectors.
“There should be policy harmonization so that ministries will come together and harmonize policies that protect environment, ensure food security while the small farmer would have access to the premium market that is critical.
“There should be a situation where the Ministry of Environment would be explaining to Ministry of Commerce why a tree should not be cut down and the effect of such on the environment. When you marry ideas, everyone will go home happy.
“Awareness should be created, let people understand the importance of organic products and allow them make their choice,” he said.
Usen while calling for the gradual reduction of inorganic farm input imports and promotion of local organic alternatives, said there was urgent need to create space in the local markets for the sale of organic foods as well as supporting certification initiatives for better value chain.
Usen said as Akwa Ibom is blessed with human and natural resources, all that is needed was for the farmers to go organic and the state government to understand that agroecology is the only system that is sustainable.
Representatives of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, and the Bank of Agriculture, BOA, in their separate remarks exposed the participants to available loan facilities that would bolter their farming practices.
The financial experts harped on the need for farmers to do proper documentation saying that it is one of the criteria that would help them access credit facilities.
The BOA representative also hinted of the prospective re-capitalization of the bank, which according to him, would enhance access to finance and support agricultural innovations.
Earlier in his welcome address the Director, CIF, Elkannah Oluyori said Agroecology has significant potential to improve food security, enhance environmental sustainability, and promote better health outcomes.
Oluyori said the Foundation needed government to develop a policy framework that would incorporate organic farming into their agricultural system.
“We advocate for a strong community-driven training programs on agroecology, with a focus on
both crop and livestock production,” he said.
Agroecology: CSO calls for policy harmonization, market linkages in Akwa Ibom