Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said that as the backbone of the African economy, agriculture can only grow with the adoption and deployment of agricultural technologies.
The ex-president stated this on Wednesday at an occasion to mark his unveiling as the African Agriculture Technology Foundation (AATF), Goodwill Ambassador.
He said the reason why he accepted the role stemmed from his deep belief in the fact that agriculture is the backbone of Africa’s economy and that technology can contribute enormously to progressing Africa’s agriculture.
“This role is directly tied to my belief in sustainable development and enhancing the prosperity of farmers in Africa through the use of technologies. It is a role that fills me with a renewed commitment to the development and progress of our great continent,” he added.
He further stated that it is through advancement in agriculture that Africa can ensure food security, poverty reduction and uplift the lives of its people.
“A key central person in this endeavor is the smallholder farmer – the person that feeds all who live in towns – and the promise that agriculture offers to uplift their lives. That person deserves to benefit from their sweat and investment in agriculture and that person also deserves to live a fulfilling, healthy life, technology can offer that,” the Nigerian former President stated.
“As I serve in this role, I am reminded of the challenges that our farmers face daily. Climate change, pests, diseases and a growing population place immense pressure on our agricultural systems.
“For a long time, inadequate integration of technologies in the agricultural sector in Africa has contributed to low yields and increased post-harvest losses which in some food items such as fruits and vegetables are as high as 40 percent.
“On the other hand, use of modern technology has increased productivity in many countries of the world. With technology, smallholder farmers are guaranteed quality harvest and increased yield. Yield increases are a result of the protection of the crop from insect damage, thus allowing the plant’s full yield potential to be realised.
“Technologies also offer new opportunities. For example, using satellite imagery and drones, precision agriculture is helping in the management of pests and diseases. Timely response through early detection enables farmers to overcome such challenges,” he said.
While stating that Africa cannot develop outside technology, he expressed confidence that the success of Africa’s free trade agreement will depend on how African countries are able to leverage production and markets on technology and science.
In his remarks, the Executive Director of AATF, Dr Canisius Kanangire said through its innovative approaches to bridging the gap between science, technology, and farmers, AATF has demonstrated commitment to enhancing food security, improving livelihoods, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
He said Jonathan’s tenure as the President of Nigeria showcased his unwavering dedication to fostering socio-economic growth and development.
Also in his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Agriculture Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) and Chairman of the event, Professor Garba Sharubutu said the event is a celebration of a significant development in Africa’s agricultural landscape.
“It is an honour for me to stand before you as the chairman of this event, as we come together to unveil a true advocate for positive change in the realm of African agriculture.
“As we bestow upon him the title of AATF Goodwill Ambassador, we recognize his commitment to advancing agricultural technologies that have the power to uplift the lives of millions across the African continent,” he stated.
Professor Sharubutu further stated that Jonathan’s exemplary leadership during his tenure as President of Nigeria brought to the forefront the significance of sustainable agriculture practice as a means to achieve food security, economic growth and poverty reduction.
“Dr Jonathan’s acceptance of the role of AATF Goodwill Ambassador signifies his continued dedication to the advancement of agriculture in Africa,” he added.
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