Agriculture experts seek to boost crop production systems

Agriculture experts have said holistic and coordinated efforts is key to building resilient and sustainable plant health systems.

Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International (CABI) board chairperson Chileshe Kapwepwe emphasized that harmonised regulatory frameworks are critical in safeguarding Africa's agricultural future.

“By adopting sustainable crop production systems, and supporting regional collaboration through harmonised regulatory frameworks, we can safeguard Africa's agricultural future,” said Kapwepwe.

She said that crop production systems are fundamental to ensuring food security, environmental sustainability, and the continent's competitiveness in global markets.

Kapwepwe, who is also Comesa Secretary General highlighted the crucial role of plant health systems in driving food security, agricultural productivity, and economic growth across Africa.

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She pointed out that regional frameworks of Comesa and other regional economic communities are designed to bolster cooperation between member states on key agricultural policies, including plant health.

“The challenges we face, ranging from invasive species and pest infestations to the impacts of climate change, do not respect borders, and neither can our responses,” she said

The CABI board chairperson said that a collective approach is essential for building robust plant health systems that support food security, trade, and economic growth.

Kapwepwe, who spoke during the inaugural Africa Plant Health Systems Forum in Nairobi, said that plant health extends beyond agricultural issues to encompass trade, environmental stewardship, and the livelihoods of millions across the continent.

She called for continued investments in innovation, capacity building, and infrastructure to ensure that Africa’s plant health systems are equipped to handle current and future challenges.

The 2024 forum, themed "Knowledge-Driven Solutions for Africa’s Plant Health Systems," brought together participants from Burundi, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Uganda, and Zambia.

The two-day event is aimed to drive growth in plant health innovation and sustainability through collaborations, business opportunities, investments, and shared knowledge.

Kapwepwe urged participants to focus on developing knowledge-driven and resilient plant health systems to address the continent's pressing needs.

Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (Kalro) Director General Eliud Kireger emphasized the importance of collaboration in safeguarding Kenya’s food security.

Dr Kireger said that partnerships, particularly with CABI, have produced significant outcomes in areas such as research on invasive species, pest management, and the development of sustainable farming practices.

“Through our joint efforts, we have tackled some of the most pressing plant health issues facing our farmers, including the Fall Armyworm, the Desert Locust, and the Papaya Mealybug,” he said.

He explained that the collaboration has also given rise to innovative solutions, including the plantwise programme and the newly launched PlantwisePlus.

Kireger said the collaboration has continued to equip farmers with the knowledge and tools needed to protect their crops.

“In Kenya alone, Plantwise has established hundreds of plant clinics, where farmers, guided by plant doctors, can receive real-time plant health advice and access vital information. Through this, we have seen a tangible improvement in crop productivity, enhancing the incomes of farming communities,” he said.