As we mark World Food Day 2024, it’s essential to reflect on the fundamental importance of food as a basic human right. Celebrated annually on October 16, this day commemorates the founding of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). This year’s theme, “Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future,” underscores the global commitment to achieving food security. Jules Pretty’s assertion that “Our planet’s health depends on the health of its ecosystems and sustainable agriculture is key to maintaining that health,” captures the essence of this vision.
Since its inception in 2010, Sahel Consulting Agriculture and Nutrition Limited, based in Nigeria, has been leading efforts to transform agriculture and nutrition across Africa. Working with international development organisations, governments and private-sector partners, Sahel Consulting is committed to developing sustainable solutions that enhance food security, strengthen agricultural value chains and improve smallholder farmers’ livelihoods.
The firm addresses the unique challenges of Africa’s agricultural sector by offering strategic advisory services, innovative business solutions, and in-depth market research. By partnering with governments, businesses and communities, Sahel Consulting designs and implements strategies that promote resilient and sustainable agricultural systems. These efforts are vital for ensuring food security, boosting livelihoods and driving economic growth across the continent.
Over the years, Sahel Consulting has delivered numerous high-impact projects, particularly in seed systems, dairy and climate resilience. One of its flagship programmes, the Advancing Local Dairy Development in Nigeria (ALDDN) project, focuses on building sustainable supply chains and improving local dairy sourcing. This initiative has significantly enhanced the livelihoods of smallholder dairy farmers across seven Nigerian states by providing training on best dairy practices, promoting women’s empowerment, and developing infrastructure in rural areas.
Innovation lies at the heart of Sahel Consulting’s approach. Through initiatives like the Programme for Seed System Innovation for Vegetatively Propagated Crops in Africa (PROSSIVA), the firm is working to improve the efficiency and profitability of seed systems. By addressing bottlenecks in the production and distribution of crops, Sahel Consulting is helping farmers increase yields and boost incomes.
The firm’s climate resilience projects are equally impactful. The Building Agricultural System Resilience in Nigeria through the Effective Early Climate Action project (2023–2026) strengthens Nigeria’s climate early warning systems, focusing on risk management and resilience in agriculture.
Beyond agriculture, Sahel Consulting is also deeply invested in community empowerment. In Plateau State, for example, the Home Garden Intervention under the ALDDN programme promotes dietary diversity and sustainability. By providing tools and training, this initiative encourages families to grow nutritious vegetables during the dry season, directly addressing food security and nutrition.
Sahel Consulting also invests in the future of African agriculture through its Sahel Scholars’ Programme (SASP). This initiative provides mentorship, hands-on experience and scholarships to undergraduate students across Nigeria, equipping the next generation of agricultural leaders with the skills and knowledge necessary for success.
Key to Sahel Consulting’s success is its strong partnerships with government institutions, development agencies and private sector organisations. Collaborations with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Shell Foundation and others have fostered innovation in digital farming, climate-smart solutions, and clean energy adoption.
Since 2010, Sahel Consulting has executed over 100 projects, benefiting more than 300,000 people across Africa. The firm’s work directly contributes to several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including poverty reduction, gender equality, climate action and responsible consumption.
As we celebrate World Food Day 2024, Sahel Consulting remains steadfast in its mission to transform agriculture and nutrition across Africa. The firm believes that food is not only a necessity but a fundamental human right—one that must be guaranteed for all. By ensuring diversity, nutrition, affordability and safety, Sahel Consulting continues to contribute to a better future for the continent.
Happy World Food Day, Nigeria!
Abantlehe, a communications expert with Sahel Consulting Agriculture and Nutrition Limited, wrote in from Abuja.
