The Clement Isong Foundation in Akwa Ibom State is calling on governments at all levels to provide improved and resilient seed varieties to farmers, as they grapple with the adverse effects of climate change on their food crops.
In a recent townhall event organized by the Foundation in collaboration with ActionAid and the Danish International Development Agency, a communique was issued stressing the need for government intervention. The group emphasized that the provision of resilient seed varieties would help instill confidence among farmers, who have been significantly impacted by the changing climate.
The Civil Society Organisation also urged governments to implement climate change amelioration and mitigation programs aimed at reducing the losses experienced by farmers. Additionally, it called for a concerted focus on agricultural adaptation to address the challenges posed by climate change.
Specifically, the communique outlined several key recommendations, including the establishment of quick response units in agricultural zones and local government areas. It also emphasized the importance of aggressive awareness campaigns on the impact of climate change within farming communities in Akwa Ibom State.
Furthermore, the group urged the prompt supply of improved seed varieties and grants to individual farmers who have suffered losses. The call for targeted climate change amelioration and mitigation programs that encompass all farmers, regardless of their location, was also highlighted. Finally, the communique emphasized the critical need to prioritize agricultural adaptation, stressing that farmers must first adapt to the changing conditions before mitigating the impact.
The proactive stance taken by the Civil Society Organisation serves as a timely reminder of the urgent support required by farmers in the face of escalating climate challenges. As climate change continues to disrupt traditional agricultural practices, the need for resilient solutions and government support has never been more pressing.
