October 18, 2024 --
The Member representing Bende North State Constituency in Abia House of Assembly, Hon Nnamdi Ibekwe Chimdi (Oziomachi), has emphasized the urgent need to support local farmers in their transition from subsistence to commercial farming.
In a statement made available to newsmen, Hon. Chimdi called for concerted efforts by government bodies, private sector players, and international organizations to provide the necessary tools, knowledge, and infrastructure that will enable small-scale farmers to enhance their productivity and profitability.
OziomaChi, noted that despite agriculture being a major backbone of many developing economies, most farmers still operate at a subsistence level, producing just enough to feed their families.
"If we are serious about achieving food security and addressing hunger, we must empower our local farmers to move beyond subsistence farming. They need access to modern farming techniques, improved seeds, irrigation systems, and access to markets," he said.
He stressed that without this transition, efforts to meet the growing food demand, especially with rising populations and the effects of climate change, will be futile. "Supporting local farmers to go commercial is a sustainable path to improving food production, creating jobs, and boosting economic development," Nnamdi Ibekwe added.
The legislator said he'll prioritize agricultural reforms in the legislature and increase investments in rural infrastructure, such as storage facilities, to help reduce post-harvest losses.
He also encouraged partnerships with financial institutions to create farmer-friendly loans and grants that can ease the burden of high startup costs in commercial agriculture.
World Food Day, which is marked globally, focuses on addressing hunger and promoting food security.
Hon Nnamdi Ibekwe Chimdi’s remarks come as part of the broader call for action to ensure that local farming communities, often the most vulnerable to climate shocks and economic challenges, are empowered to thrive and contribute meaningfully to national and global food systems.
His statement resonated with many in the agricultural sector, who echoed his calls for urgent reforms to strengthen local farming as a pathway to economic resilience and sustainable food production.
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