How Africa can navigate rising food prices

As activities in commemoration of the World Food Day ceremony climaxes this week, the Director General of the Food and Agriculture Organisation emphasized the crucial link between water security and food security. Highlighting the theme 'Water is Life, Water is Food', the focus on water scarcity and its impact on food production is a pressing issue for Nigeria and Africa as a whole. Kola Masha, CEO of Babban Gona, emphasized the importance of investing in integrated water resources management and infrastructure to produce food more sustainably while restoring land and water systems. The discussion centered around the challenges faced by farmers in Nigeria, the role of the private sector in water infrastructure investments, and the need for sustainable agriculture practices. One of the key points raised in the interview was the significant risk faced by economies like Nigeria that rely on rainfall agriculture due to the increasing variability of weather patterns caused by climate change. Masha underscored the importance of adequate irrigation infrastructure and access to potable water to mitigate these risks and ensure food security. Furthermore, the conversation delved into the role of the private sector in water infrastructure investments. While acknowledging the potential contribution of the private sector, Masha highlighted that historically, government-led initiatives have spearheaded water infrastructure projects due to their long-term nature and substantial returns on investment. Addressing the issue of irrigation in Nigeria, Masha emphasized the need for massive investments in gravity-fed irrigation systems to increase the current low irrigation rates in the country. With only around 3% of land estimated to be irrigated, scaling up irrigation infrastructure is essential, particularly for crops like rice. The interview also touched upon sustainable agriculture practices and their importance in addressing food challenges. Masha commended Nigerian farmers for their organic farming practices but noted that it stems from a lack of access to modern agricultural inputs. He stressed the need to provide farmers with financing for yield-enhancing products while ensuring responsible usage to maintain soil health. In terms of Nigeria's food security efforts, Masha highlighted the growing appreciation for agricultural investments over the past decade as a positive step. However, he emphasized the importance of translating this desire into concrete actions and unlocking capital for the agricultural sector to drive sustainable food production. As Africa seeks to navigate rising food prices and enhance food security, investments in water infrastructure, sustainable agriculture, and private-public partnerships emerge as key strategies. Collaboration, innovation, and long-term planning are essential to address water scarcity, climate challenges, and ensure a resilient food system for the continent's growing population.