Key Takeaways:
- Introduction of “Living Soils”: AGRA and IICA have launched the initiative to address soil degradation and enhance agricultural productivity and climate resilience in Africa.
- Prominent Support: The initiative is endorsed by notable figures such as Mohamed Irfaan Ali and Rattan Lal, highlighting its significance.
- Integration of Science and Policy: “Living Soils” connects scientific research with policy development to combat the global threat of soil degradation.
- Adapting Brazilian Practices: The project aims to emulate the agricultural transformation experienced in Brazil’s Cerrado region.
- Targeted Implementation: The initiative will focus on specific African regions with significant agricultural potential.
Overview of the Initiative
The “Living Soils” initiative, spearheaded by the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), aims to restore degraded soils and enhance agricultural productivity and climate resilience across Africa. This initiative draws inspiration from successful soil management practices implemented in the Americas.
Launch Event
The virtual launch event featured key figures such as Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of Guyana; Rattan Lal, Director of the Rattan Lal Center for Carbon Management and Sequestration; and Manuel Otero, Director General of IICA. Agriculture ministers from 11 African countries, AGRA officials, and representatives from the private sector also participated.
Goals and Strategies
“Living Soils” seeks to link scientific research with public policy to address the pressing issue of soil degradation. The initiative is directed by IICA and Rattan Lal, who advocate for adopting advanced soil management practices to address various agricultural challenges like erosion, nutrient depletion, and the impacts of climate change.
Future Prospects for Africa
The initiative proposes to replicate the agricultural advancements seen in Brazil’s Cerrado region, aiming to accelerate productivity improvements in African agriculture. President Ali highlighted the potential of Africa to play a crucial role in the global food supply chain and commended the leadership of IICA in promoting agricultural innovation and resilience.
Regional Focus
The initiative targets three regions across 11 African countries: the Guinea savanna zone, the Eastern highlands, and the Miombo woodlands. These areas are identified for their potential to benefit from improved soil management practices significantly. AGRA’s support will be pivotal in rolling out the initiative in these regions.
