Dr.Moussadek from the FAO Conference in Rome: The “One Million Hectare” Conservation Agriculture Initiative in Morocco as a Leading Model for Youth Agricultural Entrepreneurship
Dr Rachid Moussadek, Principal Senior Scientist at the international Center of Agricultural Research in Dryl Areas ICARDA.& INRA Morocco and Chair of the Global Soil Partnership for the Near East and North Africa at the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), participated in a significant event during the 52nd session of the Committee on World Food Security in Rome. The event, held under the theme “Reducing Inequalities in Food Systems through Entrepreneurship and Projects,” centered on the importance of conservation agriculture and sustainable soil management in enhancing resilience and promoting justice in food systems.
Restoring Soil Fertility and Boosting Productivity
In his speech, Dr. Moussadek presented the “One Million Hectares” direct seeding project within the Green Generation strategy. This initiative aims to expand conservation agriculture practices in Morocco in collaboration with major research institutions, including CGIAR, ICARDA, the National Institute for Agronomic Research, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, the “Al Moutmir” Agricultural Initiative, the “Soil” Foundation, and the Moroccan Conservation Agriculture Association. Dr. Moussadek emphasized that this project reflects Morocco’s commitment to promoting sustainable food systems and delivering environmental and economic benefits to rural communities by restoring soil fertility and increasing agricultural productivity.
The Importance of Conservation Agriculture
Dr. Moussadek explained that the significance of conservation agriculture and sustainable soil management lies in their essential roles in addressing structural inequalities in food systems. According to him, conservation agriculture not only boosts crop productivity but also improves soil health and increases its carbon storage capacity, thus helping to combat climate change. The international agricultural expert highlighted that the benefits of these sustainable practices extend beyond environmental gains, offering vast economic opportunities for young farmers and local communities, thereby improving their livelihoods and creating decent job opportunities.
Youth at the Heart of Agricultural Transformation…
In his address, Dr. Moussadek stressed the importance of involving youth in these initiatives, noting that their enthusiasm and willingness to adopt innovations in soil health and sustainable agriculture are crucial to the success of these efforts. He pointed out that young people, through agricultural entrepreneurship promoted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, Rural Development, and Water and Forests, can provide creative solutions to existing agricultural challenges, generate economic value that enhances rural household incomes, and reduce migration to urban areas.
Challenges and Opportunities in Agricultural Entrepreneurship..
Dr. Moussadek also highlighted several challenges facing efforts to promote entrepreneurship in agriculture, such as funding shortages and limited market access. He emphasized the need for collaboration between national and international institutions to find sustainable solutions. He praised Morocco’s efforts in providing technical and financial support to agricultural entrepreneurs through both government programs and partnerships with the private sector and international institutions, notably OCP Group, which plays a significant and effective role in supporting inclusive agricultural projects and achieving food security.
Acknowledgment of Organizers and a Call for Collective Action…
Concluding his remarks, Dr.Moussadek expressed gratitude to the organizers—Morocco, the Private Sector Mechanism (PSM), and OCP Group—for arranging this important event. He underscored that joint efforts between countries and partner institutions can foster more equitable and sustainable food systems. He added, “We must work together to ensure that innovation and entrepreneurship become powerful tools for building fair and inclusive food systems that meet everyone’s needs, especially the vulnerable.”
Dr. Moussadek speech reflected his comprehensive vision and commitment to leveraging scientific research in the service of sustainable development issues under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, and in building an agricultural future marked by justice and sustainability.
Promoting Economic Equity and Enhancing Food Security…
For his part, Abdellah Laghmidi, the Deputy Permanent Representative of Morocco to the United Nations Organizations in Rome, highlighted the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises in promoting economic equity and enhancing food security, particularly in rural areas.
Mr. Laghmidi affirmed that Morocco is strongly committed to supporting initiatives that promote social inclusion and sustainable development, citing programs such as “Green Generation.”
He also emphasized the critical role of the private sector in transforming food systems in Africa, stressing the need for funding, advisory services, and awareness programs to empower small and medium-sized enterprises and family farms to effectively reduce inequalities.
Innovative Solutions from Young Entrepreneurs…
Among the participants, Kenneth Obayuwana, a young entrepreneur from Nigeria and CEO of “AgriTech Digest,” shed light on the challenges related to funding shortages, stressing the importance of innovation and creativity as drivers of change.
He stated that young entrepreneurs can find innovative solutions to improve food systems and reduce inequalities, even with limited resources.
This gathering, organized by the Permanent Mission of Morocco to the United Nations agencies in Rome in collaboration with the OCP Group, the Private Sector Mechanism, and the Global Dairy Platform, and moderated by Ms. Robyn Anderson from the Private Sector Mechanism, provided participants with the opportunity to explore case studies and exchange insights on effective strategies for achieving inclusive rural development.
Strengthening South-South Cooperation…
Participants also shared case studies illustrating the success of partnerships between government and the private sector and the importance of having a supportive framework that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship.
This event highlighted the commitment of Morocco and the Moroccan private sector as key actors in achieving regional and global food security, affirming Morocco’s role in Africa’s development through its efforts to enhance rural community resilience via South-South cooperation. This approach encourages the exchange of knowledge and expertise among developing countries, contributing to improved food security and sustainable development.
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