Obasanjo Urges DRC To Invest In Agriculture

Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has called on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to invest in agriculture, particularly cassava, soybean, cowpea and plantain to help Africa cut down annual food imports estimated at $50billion.
A statement by Mr Godwin Atser, the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) Digital Extension and Rural Advisory Services Specialist, said Obasanjo made the call on Tuesday.
The forum was the official inauguration of IITA Kalambo research station in Bukavu, DRC, by the country’s President, Felix Tshisekedi.
The statement, issued yesterday in Ibadan, said the research station was named Olusegun Obasanjo Research Station in honour of the former president, an IITA Goodwill Ambassador.
Obasanjo, according to the statement, emphasised that if Africa could invest in these crops, the continent would be able to reduce the $50billion that was being spent annually on importing food.
The former president underlined the importance of research to agricultural transformation, citing the Nigerian example where his administration was able to raise cassava production by 20 million tonnes during his eight year-tenure.
He commended Dr Nteranya Sanginga, the IITA Director General, for his leadership, and the institute for its excellent research in addressing the problems facing Africa.
The IITA ambassador congratulated Tshisekedi for providing the enabling environment and support to IITA to establish the centre, adding that he felt deeply honoured to be part of it.