A group of young advocates convened at the Isatou Jallow Hall of the Gambia Nutrition Agency (NaNA), offering a beacon of hope for addressing malnutrition throughout Africa. What are they focused on? The unexpectedly high price of eggs is a crucial source of protein for numerous communities. By engaging in dynamic conversations, they addressed the underlying issue and suggested inventive ideas that could pave the way for a future where eggs are both affordable and accessible.
The main issue, as pointed out by the young people, was the strong dependence on imported baby chickens and their specific food. One participant explained that these imports significantly increase production costs. “Consider the possibility of replacing that reliance with easily accessible, locally sourced options such as millet and maize!” They suggested that this change could greatly decrease costs and make eggs a more accessible source of nutrition.
Their suggested remedy did not solely revolve around food. Realizing the importance of sharing knowledge, the group led a learning program designed for farmers. They aimed to empower farmers by providing them with the knowledge to utilize locally available feed sources such as millet and maize, enabling them to make informed decisions that could significantly reduce egg production expenses.
Moving to a new system would have its difficulties. The young people recognized that farmers may encounter financial challenges and suggested a second important factor: providing financial assistance. Another participant explained that providing capital after proper education would be crucial. They thought that this combination would encourage the transition to local feed, ultimately supporting a more sustainable and cost-efficient poultry industry.
The conversations held at NaNA had a significant impact that extended beyond the confines of the hall. They emphasized the crucial role that young people can have in addressing urgent issues such as food security and the increasing cost of living. The organizers from Africa Catalyzing Action for Nutrition (AfriCAN) praised the new and creative ideas and perspectives brought by them. A representative remarked that the suggestions have the potential to revolutionize local agricultural practices and ultimately improve nutrition for everyone.
The Africa Day celebrations served as a poignant reminder that the key focus should be on working together and developing local solutions to tackle the nutritional challenges facing the continent. The importance of education in empowering communities was highlighted by the valuable contributions of these young minds. When local resources are combined with knowledge, it creates the opportunity for sustainable development led by the creativity and resolve of the local community, rather than relying on external interventions.
Dorothy Fosu, a representative from Ghana, elevated the discussion to the next level. She called for a more comprehensive approach, encouraging the government to invest in local poultry farming. “She emphasized that we have highly skilled farmers and native chickens that produce eggs.” “However, there is often a lot of attention given to imported breeds, despite the fact that they may not be the most environmentally friendly choice.” Fosu suggests that Ghana can become self-sufficient in egg production by making targeted investments in local poultry farms. Nevertheless, she has a broader vision that goes beyond poultry. She stresses the importance of investing in farms that produce rice, millet, and maize simultaneously, as these crops are crucial for providing the necessary feed for a successful local poultry industry.
The young African advocates’ message is straightforward: it is possible to attain sustainable food security and enhance nutrition. It is necessary to change the focus to empower local communities by providing them with knowledge and resources. Africa can achieve a future where everyone has access to affordable and nutritious eggs by adopting local solutions, promoting collaboration, and investing in the skills and creativity of its young people.
