Posted on December, 16, 2024 at 09:55 am
OCP Africa, a subsidiary of the OCP Group, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Niger’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock to support sustainable agriculture in the country.
Supported by the World Bank, the partnership aims to improve soil health, boost agricultural productivity, and empower small-scale farmers in the region, OCP Group said in a press release.
The signing ceremony in Niamey brought together key figures, including Niger’s Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, the Minister of Mines, World Bank representatives, and stakeholders from the agriculture and mining sectors.
The initiative builds on the partnership signed between OCP Group and the World Bank during the Annual Meetings in Marrakech in October 2023, added the statement.
The phosphate giant noted that the partnership is centered on six key initiatives designed to transform Niger’s agricultural landscape.
These include improving soil health through advanced mapping techniques and innovative fertilization models, as well as establishing modern agricultural service centers for farmers to gain access to high-quality inputs, mechanization tools, irrigation systems, financing, and market opportunities.
The partnership also aims to empower youth and women and foster entrepreneurship through training, incubating, and accelerating agri-tech startups.
In addition, farmers will receive fertilizers tailored to their specific soil and crop needs.
In collaboration with Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), local agricultural distributors and institutions will receive technical and operational support.
In addition, OCP Africa and UM6P will work with institutions like Niger’s Directorate General of Agriculture and the National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRAN) to advance innovation.
Read also: OCP Strengthens Commitment to Africa’s Sustainability with New Initiatives
To demonstrate the initiative’s impact, 230 irrigated demonstration plots will be established in partnership with INRAN and the Directorate General of Agriculture.
By the 2025 rainy season, an additional 400 plots will be dedicated to rainfed crops like millet, cowpeas, and rice, bringing the total to 630. These plots will also include vegetables such as onions, tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers, showcasing a variety of crop options for local farmers.
Mohamed Anouar Jamali, CEO of OCP Africa, noted the importance of this collaboration, saying: “It is a great honor to partner with the World Bank in this ambitious initiative to promote sustainable farming practices in Niger, ensuring food security, and contributing to soil health and fertility.”
Meanwhile, Niger’s Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Ousmane Elhadj Mahaman, said that the partnership with OCP Africa represents an “integrated and innovative approach.”
“With support from Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, we are laying the foundation for a modern and sustainable agricultural system, driven by research and innovation,” Mahaman said.
OCP Africa views this collaboration as a model public-private partnership to strengthen the resilience of Niger’s agriculture sector by targeting immediate productivity improvements and ensuring long-term sustainability.
The fertilizer giant has continuously expressed dedication to supporting farmers across the continent through customized soil and crop nutrition solutions. It is recognized as a global leader in plant nutrition and phosphate-based fertilizers.
With initiatives spanning over 45 African countries, OCP Africa works closely with governments, research institutions, and farmers.
Some of its notable contributions include enhancing food security by providing fertilizers tailored to African soils and crops.
OCP Africa has also collaborated with local partners to empower smallholder farmers with training, modern farming techniques, and access to resources.
The subsidiary is also committed to supporting sustainable practices by promoting environmentally friendly agricultural practices.
OCP Africa’s work extends beyond Niger, impacting millions of farmers across the continent.
Source: Morocco News