FROM THE
EDITOR
Dear Valued Readers,
Welcome to our latest newsletter,
spotlighting the transformative
power of agroecological
entrepreneurship, a union of
sustainability and innovation.
Agroecological entrepreneurship
marks a significant shift towards
agricultural practices that
are ecologically harmonious,
economically resilient, and
supportive of food sovereignty.
It integrates natural cycles and
balances into business models,
promoting a sustainable interaction
between agriculture and the
environment.
The benefits of this approach are
extensive. It not only supports
biodiversity and enhances soil
fertility but also aids in carbon
sequestration, contributing
significantly to combating climate
change. Additionally, it revitalizes
rural economies by generating local
employment and creating products
and services that uphold local
traditions while being competitive
globally.
In this edition, we share inspiring
stories from pioneers at the
forefront of agroecological
entrepreneurship. These
individuals and communities
turn ecological challenges
into lucrative opportunities,
establishing businesses that are
both sustainable and beneficial
to their communities. Their
successes highlight the potential of
agroecology to foster a sustainable
and profitable future without
harming our planet.
Let's draw inspiration from these
leaders and continue to support
this crucial movement. Their
work demonstrates the vital role
agroecological entrepreneurship
can play in crafting a more
sustainable and equitable world.
Join us in celebrating their
innovation and resilience and
consider how you can contribute to
this essential shift.
Send your article(s) to:
ruth.nabaggala@afsafrica.org
Ruth
contd to p.8
Harvesting Hope:
Feeding Africa's
Future through
Agroecological
Entrepreneurship and
Local Markets
griculture
in
Togo,
a
vital
economic
pillar
employing
70%
of
the
workforce,
faces
significant challenges due to
land degradation, threatening
food security and environmental
health. Over 90% of Togo’s arable
land is affected by degradation,
erosion,
and
fertility
loss,
particularly in densely populated
and ecologically fragile regions
such
as
the
Savanes
and
Plateaux. Additionally, the non-
judicious use of chemical inputs
exacerbates these issues, with
women, who constitute nearly
90% of farmers in southern
Togo, being the primary users
of
pesticides.
Agroecology
in
Togo
confronts
obstacles
including climate change, soil
degradation,
dependence
on
unsustainable
practices,
lack of market differentiation
for
agroecological
products,
competitive disadvantages, and
financial barriers for youth-led
initiatives, all of which contribute
to livelihood vulnerability and
increased food insecurity. To
counteract these challenges, the
promotion of sustainable farming
practices and the improvement
of
farmers’
socio-economic
conditions are imperative. Eco-
Impact,
supported
by
AFSA,
aims to foster a new generation
of
farmers
committed
to
agroecological
practices
through its extension program.
This initiative emphasizes training
in sustainable soil management,
agricultural
biodiversity,
and
A farmer in her field undergoing agro-ecological transition.
Agroecology as a sustainable solution
– A contribution by JeAn-chArleS SoSSou-eco impAct