Pests and diseases are a major constraint on agricultural development. In line with National Specialisation Centres (NSC) approach promoted by CORAF, Togo, through the Institut Togolais de Recherche Agronomique (ITRA), is positioning itself as an NSC to tackle the challenge of pests and diseases that are hampering food security in sub-Saharan Africa.
ITRA and experts from the region met in Lomé from 09 to 11 August 2023 to discuss issues relating to pests and diseases affecting crops and livestock. These specialists, including plant pathologists, entomologists, nematologists, weed scientists, as well as veterinarians from Togo and other ECOWAS member countries and Chad, bear witness to the regional commitment to a collective response to these crucial challenges.
A regional approach to combating pests and diseases
The establishment of the NSC on pests and diseases in Togo reflects the region's determination to tackle major agricultural issues from a common perspective. This step forward represents a significant contribution to food security and agricultural development in sub-Saharan Africa and beyond. Similarly, the establishment of this Centre in Togo has the support of the national authorities and is part of the Programme on Food System Resilience in West Africa (PRSA/FSRP), funded by the World Bank.
In addition, the National Specialisation Centre (NSC) concept is perfectly aligned with the regional commitment to integration, particularly in the ECOWAS region. This approach aims to pool research efforts to meet common agricultural challenges and exploit the comparative advantages of each country in a specific value chain.
Synergy for mutual research
Togo joins other countries in the region that have already set up NHAs in areas such as maize, coarse grains, livestock, fruit and vegetables, roots and tubers, rice, plantain, aquaculture and mangrove rice. This initiative reflects the growing importance of agricultural research and development in meeting regional food and environmental challenges.
By capitalising on the experiences of previous NSCs, Togo is well positioned to advance pest management and contribute to regional food security. The successful launch of the CNS bioagresseurs demonstrates Togo's willingness to address agricultural challenges in a proactive and innovative way, with the support of CORAF and ECOWAS and other regional partners. This example illustrates how agricultural research and development can play a crucial role in achieving sustainable and resilient agriculture, while strengthening regional cooperation and partnerships.
