Zulum advocates climate-smart agriculture to ensure food security in Africa

By Muhammad Maitela, Damaturu

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has called on African leaders to transit from rain-fed agriculture to climate-smart and irrigation-based farming systems to guarantee long-term food security across the continent.

Zulum made this call while addressing participants at the 6th African Regional Conference of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID), held in Abuja on Monday.

“To feed ourselves sustainably, we must rethink how we grow our food. Transitioning from rain-dependent systems to resilient, water-smart approaches is imperative.

“This involves embracing climate-smart agriculture and developing efficient and inclusive irrigation infrastructure.”

He highlighted the necessity for comprehensive policy reform, financing mechanisms, transboundary cooperation, investment in water infrastructure, and creating enabling environments for private sector involvement.

The Governor also underscored the importance of safeguarding the rights of communities reliant on shared water resources.

Governor Zulum stressed the need to empower research institutions, promote innovation, and enable the active participation of women and youth in agriculture.

“As a leader from a region facing both climate change and post-conflict recovery, I have seen first-hand how agriculture can restore dignity and rebuild communities. In Borno State, we are laying the groundwork for agricultural transformation through sustainable irrigation initiatives.”