As part of the 2nd Edition of the Agricultural Fair of Ponte Sul-Chã de Mato, a round table on agroecology was organized to address sustainable agricultural practices in Cape Verde. The event was hosted by ADPM, AJA, and AMUPAL, key partners of the CIRAWA project, and centered on agroecology as a resilient, profitable, and environmentally conscious alternative to traditional agriculture in the face of climate change.
Key Participants and Topics
The round table brought together representatives from notable institutions, including the National Institute for Agrarian Research and Development (INIDA), the Institute of Agricultural Sciences and Technologies (ICTA), and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The discussions covered critical aspects of sustainable and organic agriculture in Cape Verde, including:
- Biological pest control: Addressing challenges like the fall armyworm in maize cultivation.
- The role of fungi in soil health: Highlighting their importance for soil fertility and ecosystem balance.
- Women in organic agriculture: Emphasizing the pivotal role of women in promoting sustainable farming practices.
CIRAWA Project in Cape Verde
The CIRAWA project, which operates on the islands of Santo Antão and Maio, plays a significant role in advancing agroecological practices in Cape Verde. Coordinated regionally by ADPM Mértola, the initiative collaborates with local organizations such as the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAA), the Association of Young Farmers of Casa do Meio (AJAZPUPN), and the Association of Women of the Eastern Plateau (AMUPAL).
Funded by the European Union through the Horizon Europe program, CIRAWA underscores the importance of sustainable agriculture not only for resilience against climate change but also for public health and environmental stewardship.
This round table underscored the collective commitment of stakeholders in Cape Verde to fostering an agricultural future that prioritizes sustainability, profitability, and inclusivity.
