In a bid to fortify agricultural resilience amidst climate challenges, the World Bank has unveiled a significant investment of $40 million to finance climate research in six African nations. Ethiopia, Zambia, Kenya, Mali, Senegal, and Ghana are set to benefit from this initiative, aimed at addressing the critical shortage of data and technological solutions necessary for building resilient agricultural chains.
The move comes in response to the United Nations' call for climate-related policies to be grounded in scientific facts to ensure effective adaptation measures. Africa, in particular, has grappled with advancing scientific research due to obstacles in data access and funding.
Focusing on countries where climate change impacts have been acutely felt, the World Bank, through the International Development Association (IDA), will channel $40 million towards climate research as part of the AICCRA project. This project, spearheaded by a global partnership of international research organizations, seeks to accelerate data collection efforts and develop climate-smart agricultural technologies.
Chakib Jenane, the Bank’s Director for Sustainable Development in West and Central Africa, underscored the importance of equipping local farmers with tools to anticipate meteorological phenomena. The initiative aims to safeguard productivity and livelihoods through concrete intervention measures.
Among the planned initiatives is the establishment of a regional laboratory for fertilisers and soil health in arid-climate West African countries. Collaborating with partners such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, which has pledged an additional $18.8 million, this endeavour is poised to bolster agricultural development and improve the livelihoods of millions across Africa.
With a focus on data-driven solutions and strategic partnerships, the World Bank's investment signals a concerted effort to advance agricultural resilience and ensure food security amidst the growing challenges posed by climate change.
Article by Nyokabi Wanjiku
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