Written by Nweze Emmanuel Obinna and Asiegbule Esther Amarachi
Ecosteward and Humanitarian Foundation, a youth platform for the Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA) has taken a significant step in advocating for sustainable food systems by launching a ground breaking project aimed at strengthening agroecology across Nigeria. The official launch, held on 18th March 2025 at faculty of agriculture, university of Calabar, brought together key stakeholders, policymakers, and grassroots organizations committed to fostering resilient and sustainable food production systems.
A Commitment to Agroecology
The newly launched initiative underscores Ecosteward and AFSA’s dedication to promoting agroecology as a sustainable solution to food insecurity, climate change, and biodiversity loss. Agroecology, a holistic approach to agriculture, integrates ecological principles into farming practices while ensuring economic and social sustainability. This project seeks to empower smallholder farmers, amplify indigenous knowledge, and advocate for policies that support sustainable agricultural practices.
Key Objectives and Expected Impact
The project is designed to:
- Enhance Capacity Building: Provide training and resources to farmers, community leaders, and policymakers on agroecological practices.
- Advocate for Policy Change: Engage governments and regional bodies to integrate agroecology into national agricultural policies.
- Strengthen Farmer Networks: Foster collaboration among small-scale farmers, indigenous communities, and civil society organizations.
- Promote Agroecological Research: Support scientific and indigenous knowledge research to validate and improve sustainable farming techniques.
By addressing these key areas, Ecosteward and AFSA aims to create a resilient food system that prioritizes the needs of farmers and local communities while mitigating the adverse effects of industrial agriculture.
Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration
The launch event saw the participation of diverse stakeholders, including representatives from farmers’ organizations, research institutions, development partners, and government agencies. Discussions emphasized the urgent need for a shift towards agroecological farming methods that prioritize environmental sustainability and social equity.
Participants expressed strong support for the initiative, recognizing agroecology as a critical solution to food sovereignty and sustainable development in Africa. Through this project, Ecosteward will facilitate knowledge exchange, amplify local voices, and build a strong coalition advocating for policies that protect traditional farming systems and promote food sovereignty.
Looking Ahead
Ecosteward and AFSA’s project launch marks the beginning of a concerted effort to mainstream agroecology across Africa. Moving forward, the alliance will implement strategic interventions that ensure farmers have the necessary tools, knowledge, and policy support to transition towards sustainable agricultural practices.
This initiative is not just about transforming food systems—it is about empowering communities, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. As AFSA and its partners embark on this journey, their collective commitment to agroecology will pave the way for a resilient and sovereign food system in Africa.
