Nigeria Hosts Regional Conference to Address Food Insecurity in ECOWAS
Nigeria is set to host the ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival in Uyo from October 6-11, bringing together experts to tackle food insecurity and violence impacting farming in West Africa. The event aims to advocate for high-level government policies and commitment to address these challenges, promoting peace, development, and cultural integration.
Nigeria is set to host a major conference with key stakeholders from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to tackle the pressing issues of food insecurity and violence hindering farming and agricultural production in the region.
The ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, scheduled to take place in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, from October 6th to 11th, 2024, will bring together experts from the food security and security sectors to propose solutions to the challenges facing Nigeria and other West African countries.
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According to Felix Ihonre, Director-General of the ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, “Nigeria, as the host of the ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, stands to benefit significantly in areas such as tourism, sustainable development, cultural integration, poverty alleviation, youth employment, and women in agriculture”
The festival aims to advocate for high-level government policies and commitment from governments within the ECOWAS sub-region.
Ihonre emphasised that curbing violence in agricultural communities is crucial, allowing farmers to work without fear of harassment, leading to increased food production and availability.
The festival’s theme, “Celebrating African Cultural Heritage for Peace and Development,” highlights the importance of addressing these challenges.
The event will feature various activities, including a golf tournament, train carnival, Miss ECOWAS Beauty Pageant, and forums for men, youth, local government chairmen, and directors.
Ekpa Francis from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation expressed support for the festival, citing its alignment with President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The event aims to advocate for high-level government policies and commitment to address these challenges, promoting peace, development, and cultural integration.