As the world looks towards new frontiers for economic growth, Africa stands out with its rich history, unique climate, and vast unused arable land. Dr. Rainer Schreiber, a seasoned author and educator, delves into the intricacies of investing in Africa through a conversation with Thomas Wegener, the founder of GrowExpress Ltd. in Nigeria. Wegener’s initiative highlights the immense potential and critical importance of agricultural programs, training, and education for a sustainable future, food security, and peaceful coexistence.

Why Invest in Africa?

A Rich History and Abundant Resources

Africa, with its diverse cultures and rich history, offers unique opportunities for investments, particularly in the agricultural sector. Wegener emphasizes the continent’s vast tracts of fertile land and a young, educated, and ambitious population eager to transform their local economies. “If we can consciously offer a well-balanced mix of advanced education, bring in the latest technology while respecting local cultures, investments will sustainably multiply,” he asserts.

Leveraging Natural and Human Capital

The continent’s unique climate and soil conditions are ideal for various agricultural products. For instance, Africa has the potential to become a major supplier of pepper, with significant demand globally. Vietnam, India, and the US consume around 320,000 metric tons of pepper annually, representing approximately 40% of global consumption. Similarly, the pork market in Nigeria and Ghana alone is valued at approximately $3 billion yearly, with the potential to expand across 54 countries, tapping into a vast, largely untapped consumer market.

How Can Investments Drive Change?

The Role of AgriTech and Education

Wegener explains that combining Africa’s natural resources with impact investments in AgriTech can catalyze significant economic and social transformations. “Utilizing such excellent basics and combining those with value and impact investments in AgriTech will feed the African nations and bring employment, food security, and stable income, lifting whole populations out of poverty,” he states. This approach can help balance local inequalities, reduce migration pressures, and foster regional stability.

Practical Examples and Initiatives

GrowExpress Ltd. exemplifies this model through continuous agricultural training programs. Collaborating with esteemed institutions like the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and the German Corporation for International Cooperation (GIZ), GrowExpress provides farmers with the latest knowledge and technologies tailored to local conditions. Recent training sessions have focused on single-parent women from Oyo State, educating them on the cassava and maize value chain. These programs cover modern seed systems and economic weed management, with real business cases presented by experts from IITA and the National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC).

The GrowExpress Model: Training and Empowerment

Block Farms and Modern Techniques

GrowExpress works with farmers on large-scale block farms, enabling each farmer to cultivate specific areas within the provided land. This model ensures access to modern equipment, knowledge exchange, and a robust logistics chain. Additionally, the company guarantees the purchase of produce, with on-site processing to enhance the value of basic food products and achieve higher sales prices.

Impact on Local Communities

The tangible results of these efforts are impressive. Local communities experience significant improvements in various aspects of life, from enhanced sanitation and financial inclusion through bank accounts to increased participation in public life via internet connectivity. Children now have better access to education, and food security has become more stable and reliable.

Tangible Results and Future Prospects

Uplifting Communities

“The outcomes are breathtaking,” Wegener remarks. “Improved sanitation, participation in public life, financial inclusion, access to schooling, and a stable food supply have transformed village life.” These improvements underscore the power of targeted investments in agriculture and education.

Addressing Global Challenges

Investing in Africa’s agricultural sector addresses multiple global challenges, from food security to economic stability. By empowering local populations through education and technology, these investments can create a ripple effect, fostering economic growth, reducing poverty, and promoting social harmony.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Investing in African agriculture and education is not just about economic returns; it is a commitment to a more equitable and prosperous world. As Wegener aptly puts it, “Investing in people and African agriculture ensures you are doing good for a more equal and better world while being economically very successful in the short, mid, and long term.” The story of GrowExpress Ltd. in Nigeria serves as a compelling example of how thoughtful investments can drive sustainable development and create lasting positive change.

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Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, is on the brink of an economic and humanitarian abyss. Once known as an emerging economic power, the country is now grappling with one of the worst crises in decades. The effects are devastating: millions of people struggle daily to survive in what is now an existential crisis. This crisis urgently calls for comprehensive humanitarian aid as the situation worsens day by day.

Causes of the Crisis: Historical Roots and Current Mismanagement

Nigeria’s current problems have deep-rooted historical causes. Previous governments set the stage for today’s catastrophic situation through lack of foresight and weak fiscal decisions. These structural weaknesses were exacerbated by recent actions of President Bola Tinubu. Since taking office last May, Tinubu’s reforms, which profoundly affected the country, further destabilized the already fragile economy.

Currency Reform: A Risky Move

One of the most controversial reforms was the decoupling of the Naira exchange rate from the US dollar. This measure was intended to strengthen the currency in the long run but led to a dramatic 70% depreciation of the Naira in the short term. Inflation soared, and foreign investments dropped by 26.7% in 2023. President Tinubu justifies these reforms as necessary to prevent state bankruptcy, yet the immediate impact on the population is devastating. People increasingly struggle to afford essentials, and poverty is spreading.

Oil Industry: A Double-Edged Sword and Subsidy Cuts Deliver a Heavy Blow

Another significant measure was the elimination of state subsidies for refined oil products like gasoline. Although Nigeria is one of the world’s largest crude oil exporters, it lacks sufficient refining capacity. The four state-owned refineries cannot meet demand, necessitating gasoline imports. The long-standing subsidies were meant to stabilize prices, but their removal led to a tripling of gasoline prices, further exacerbating the already tense situation. The population suffers from the massively increased cost of living.

A Glimmer of Hope: The Dangote Refinery

A potential ray of hope is the Dangote Refinery, built by Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote. This refinery is expected to process 650,000 barrels of oil per day at full capacity, enough to supply the entire African continent. However, until it reaches full capacity, the situation remains tense. As long as the refinery does not receive sufficient crude oil, reliance on expensive imports continues, further burdening the economic situation.

Humanitarian Disaster: Hunger and Poverty

The economic problems have severe humanitarian consequences. Most of the population can barely afford two full meals a day, and two-thirds of Nigerians already live in poverty. The United Nations World Food Programme warns that from June to August 2024, more than one in ten people in Nigeria could suffer from acute hunger. In the cities, mass panics at food distributions are already occurring, and hospitals are overwhelmed with people suffering from deficiencies. The humanitarian crisis is escalating, and urgent international support is needed.

Labor Market and Unions

The labor market situation is equally grim. Between 75 and 92 percent of working Nigerians are employed in the informal sector, without unions and without fixed wages. Unions in the public sector are striking for wages of about 20 dollars a month, but the majority of workers are barely getting by. The uncertainty and precarious working conditions further exacerbate the social and economic crisis.

Security Problems: An Additional Burden

The crisis is further compounded by the disastrous security situation in the country. From terrorism and kidnappings to land-use conflicts and oil piracy, Nigeria is plagued by various security issues. These insecurities prevent many people from farming or earning an income, further worsening the economic situation. The lack of security leads to a further exacerbation of the country’s economic and humanitarian situation.

Thomas Wegener and GrowExpress Ltd.: A Beacon of Hope

Amid this crisis, there are also beacons of hope. Thomas Wegener is committed to sustainable development and social justice with the social model farm project by GrowExpress Ltd. in Ibadan. „The current development of the country is very concerning,“ adds Wegener. The GrowExpress projects aim to improve the living conditions of the local people and promote long-term economic stability. Nigeria’s tumultuous development through oil discoveries decades ago led to the neglect of rural areas and agriculture, although over 70 percent of the population is involved in agriculture.

An Innovative Agricultural Project

GrowExpress Ltd., in collaboration with the local university in Ibadan, has been awarded a model farm. Within this project, the land was reclaimed for agriculture by removing ecologically invaluable bushland that had grown over the past decades. Including local forces, who also benefit economically from these activities through education, respect, and income, international investors have joined forces to rejuvenate agriculture in one of the most fertile parts of West Africa, the state of Nigeria.

Sustainable Management and Education

The GrowExpress farm concept aims to respect and support local structures. This means that the existing small-scale, human-powered field management is preserved. The agricultural department of the University of Ibadan has developed a management concept that includes local fertilizer producers and protected seeds. GrowExpress Ltd. provides local farmers with expertise, seeds, and fertilizers, and also offers them additional land beyond their own.

The Path Forward: Creative Solutions and Resilience

Despite immense challenges, the people of Nigeria show remarkable resilience and creativity. They ration food, turn to alternative medicine, and generate their own electricity. Communities defend themselves against attacks and often resolve kidnapping situations independently when state security forces fail. These self-organized solutions are signs of hope and show that people are not ready to give up.

Nollywood and Afrobeats: Culture as an Economic Factor

The commercial creative and cultural scene, particularly Nollywood and Afrobeats, also offers hope. These sectors have developed into economic powerhouses and contribute significantly to the Nigerian economy. Nollywood, the Nigerian film industry, is now internationally recognized and popular, as is the Nigerian music scene with its successful Afrobeats. These cultural exports are important economic factors and could help stabilize the country in the long run.

Conclusion: An Uncertain Future

The global food security crisis is facing an unprecedented crisis exacerbated by a combination of conflicts, climatic extremes, and economic challenges. Recent reports indicate that in 2023 nearly 282 million people in 59 countries suffered from acute food insecurity, an increase of 24 million from the previous year, according to the World Bank. In Nigeria, many are dismayed, disillusioned, angry, and disappointed, and the majority are literally fighting for survival.

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Africa, a continent rich in natural resources and cultural diversity, faces one of the biggest challenges in its history: the hunger crisis. Climate crises and geopolitical tensions have massively impacted food security. Against this backdrop, old, drought-resistant crops like cassava and traditional millet are experiencing a renaissance. In particular, the commitment of companies like GrowExpress Ltd. demonstrates how sustainable agriculture can contribute to solving these pressing issues.

Cassava and Millet: Survivalists Against Climate Change

Cassava, often referred to as the „tropical potato,“ and millet are no longer just poor people’s food. „Cassava can be turned into Gari, a dish that can combat hunger,“ says Thomas Wegener. Gari is a widespread, nutrient-rich product that is versatile in West African cuisine. It can be prepared in various ways and supplemented with additional vitamins and minerals, whether as porridge or paste. These plants are considered true survivalists that thrive under extreme conditions and provide high nutritional value. Approximately 35 million tons of cassava are harvested annually in East Africa, and with the right farming methods, these numbers could increase even further.

The drought-resistant nature of cassava makes it ideal for regions severely affected by climate change. New, disease-resistant varieties and the plant’s modesty, which requires no artificial fertilizers, make it a beacon of hope for many African countries.

Challenges in Africa: A Continent in Transition

Africa suffers particularly from the effects of the climate crisis. Extreme weather events like droughts, floods, and heatwaves have affected millions and significantly reduced agricultural yields. A report by the World Meteorological Organization shows that crop yields have declined by about a third in the last 60 years. Only six percent of agricultural land in Africa is irrigated, further increasing agriculture’s vulnerability to climatic changes.

GrowExpress Ltd.: A Beacon Project in Nigeria

Amid these challenges, GrowExpress Ltd. shines as a beacon of hope. The company is dedicated to the sustainable development of fallow agricultural lands in Nigeria. „A world without hunger is possible, action is needed,“ is the motto of Thomas Wegener, founder of the model farm of GrowExpress in Nigeria, with social commitment in Ibadan, aiding self-help. „In this context, the block farming concept, which combines economic efficiency with social responsibility, is exemplarily pursued,“ explains Wegener. The lands, fallow for 70 to 100 years, are reintroduced to agricultural use through ecological agroforestry. Involving local farmers, mostly single mothers, who also benefit economically from these activities through education, respect, and income, helps to rejuvenate agriculture in one of the most fertile parts of West Africa, the state of Nigeria. GrowExpress Ltd. manages a large state-owned estate in the fertile OYO National Park and collaborates with small farmers. Here, cassava is cultivated, harvested, and processed on a large scale.

Maria Emos: An Example of Success

Maria Emos, a widow and mother of three, exemplifies how GrowExpress can change lives. By participating in training programs and introducing modern agricultural techniques, she was able to triple her income and provide her family with a stable future. Her success represents many others in her community and highlights the potential of projects like GrowExpress Ltd.

The Concept of GrowExpress: Sustainability and Community

GrowExpress focuses on respect and sustainability. Instead of displacing existing small-scale farming structures, the company supports them through knowledge transfer and modern technologies. This has helped local communities increase their agricultural production while protecting the environment.

The decision to focus on cassava was strategically wise. Thomas Wegener explains that with ideal local conditions and locally adapted varieties, GrowExpress achieves impressive yields of up to 30 tons per hectare. These successes are the result of years of research and optimization of farming methods.

Future Prospects: A New Era of Food Security

The efforts of GrowExpress Ltd. and other similar initiatives could usher in a new era of food security in Africa. By focusing on drought-resistant crops like cassava and millet, dependence on food imports can be reduced, and resilience to climate shocks can be increased. Moreover, such projects provide economic prospects for millions engaged in agriculture.

Belief in Sustainability: GrowExpress Ltd. and the Cassava Source-Sink (CASS) Project

The future of African agriculture could be significantly shaped by innovative and sustainable projects like GrowExpress Ltd. and the Cassava Source-Sink (CASS) project supported by Bill & Melinda Gates. GrowExpress Ltd. is committed to the sustainable management of fallow agricultural lands in Nigeria and achieves impressive yields with cassava, a drought-resistant plant that thrives under extreme climatic conditions. These efforts are already showing positive impacts on the local community and economic stability.

Concurrently, the non-profit organization Bill & Melinda Gates Agricultural Innovations (Gates Ag One) is funding the CASS project with approximately 25.8 million euros. This international research project, led by FAU, involves researchers from eleven institutions worldwide to optimize cassava productivity. Cassava is a staple food for about 800 million people globally and is known as an „insurance crop“ because it tolerates degraded soils. Research by Gates Ag One confirms that improving cassava’s biological processes will have a transformative effect on agriculture, communities, and economies across Sub-Saharan Africa. These efforts could not only help Africa improve its food security but also make a significant contribution to global food production. Through collaborative engagement and innovative approaches, projects like GrowExpress and the CASS project create a sustainable and prosperous future for the African continent.

Conclusion: A Way Out of the Crisis

Africa stands at a crossroads. The climate crisis and food security challenges are pressing, but projects like GrowExpress Ltd. offer a way out. By rediscovering traditional, resilient plants like cassava and millet and implementing modern agricultural techniques, a sustainable future can be created. GrowExpress’s successes in Nigeria exemplify how commitment and innovation can work together to combat hunger and prepare the continent for a better future.

Author: Erik Simon, CEO – Managing Director, GrowExpress Ltd.

About Erik Simon:

Erik Simon, with a global presence in the banking and economic sectors for years, following training as an insurance clerk and independent sales with part-time studies in economics at the University of Trier and St. Gallen. DZ Bank Luxembourg and Bear Stearns Companies, Inc. in London significantly fostered his focus on accreditation and alternative financing. Today, as CEO (Chief Executive Officer) of GrowExpress Ltd., he is convinced that independent and qualified advising of countries and institutions is increasingly important to achieve short-, medium-, and long-term goals and successes that contribute to improving people’s lives on many levels.

Contact:

GrowExpress Limited
Kingsley Ekwueme
Chief Operating Officer – GrowExpress Ltd.
Cocoa House, Dugbe
200263 Ibadan
Nigeria

Tel.: +234 7031135981
Mail: AtYourService@growexpress.biz
Web: https://growexpress.org

Company Description: The GrowExpress Ltd. office is located in Nigeria, Cocoa House, Dugbe, 200263 Ibadan, one of the most important commercial areas in Oyo State, Nigeria. The company manages an 800-hectare agricultural estate approximately 200 km north of the metropolis of Lagos in Nigeria. GrowExpress stands for sustainability. Through investments in agricultural futures with innovative production methods for maximum efficiency and yield increases. More information at https://growexpress.org

Press Contact:

GrowExpress Limited
Kingsley Ekwueme
Chief Operating Officer – GrowExpress Ltd.
Cocoa House, Dugbe
200263 Ibadan
Nigeria

Tel.: +234 7031135981
Mail: AtYourService@growexpress.biz
Web: https://growexpress.org

Der Beitrag Cultivating Drought-Resistant Cassava and Millet erschien zuerst auf GrowExpress Limited.

GROWEXPRESS supports the sustainable transformation of agriculture in Africa to improve food security. The project promotes commercial agriculture through environmentally friendly methods and modern technologies. It trains smallholder farmers on a model farm so they can apply effective and sustainable farming methods.

With organic farming and modern technologies, GROWEXPRESS manages thousands of hectares for various crops such as maize, soybeans, rice, and sesame. Productivity is increased through adapted crop rotations and the use of local seeds. Harvests are stored in modern warehouses to minimize post-harvest losses.

GROWEXPRESS also invests in indoor cultivation to grow seasonal and non-native plants without pesticides. These approaches contribute to a stable and secure food supply, thus supporting food security in Africa.

Challenges of Food Security in Africa

What are the causes of this food insecurity? Discussion revolves around governmental responsibility and initiatives contributing to improved food security. The causes of food insecurity in Africa are diverse, ranging from climatic conditions to political instability. Droughts, floods, and other extreme weather events significantly affect agricultural production. Additionally, conflicts disrupt food supply chains and lead to displacement and destruction of agricultural infrastructure.

FAO statistics show that food insecurity is particularly pronounced in rural areas of Africa, where access to resources, education, and health services is limited. Government responsibility for addressing these challenges is therefore enormous. However, despite the critical situation, food security has not always been at the forefront of international summits or political discourses.

Government Responsibility and Implementation Challenges

Government responsibility plays a crucial role in food security. Governments must develop strategies to increase food production, ensure access to healthy food, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. However, this responsibility is hindered by structural challenges stemming from historical and political factors.

Colonial policies have often led to a unilateral focus on export crops, negatively impacting local food production for consumption. These historical imbalances persist to this day, exacerbating food insecurity.

Initiatives for Food Security

Despite these challenges, there are positive developments and initiatives contributing to improved food security. Projects like „GrowExpress,“ which promote modern agricultural techniques in Africa, demonstrate how innovation and technology can increase productivity. These initiatives show that local communities can improve their food security when provided with the necessary resources and support.

Additionally, issues such as food sovereignty are gaining importance. Communities and organizations advocate for more control over their food production and promote sustainable practices. These approaches can help reduce dependence on imported foods and strengthen food security.

The Way Forward

To ensure food security in Africa, governments and international communities must collaborate. The challenges are complex and require coordinated efforts that consider both short-term solutions and long-term strategies. Sustainable agriculture, access to education and health services, and strengthening local communities are key elements on the path to a secure and sustainable food supply in Africa.

The success of these efforts depends on the determination and commitment of all stakeholders. By integrating technology, sustainable practices, and inclusive policies, we can create a future where food security becomes a reality for all Africans.

Responsible under the Press Law:

Thomas Wegener – Blogger and Supporter of GrowExpress as a Social Commitment

Contact:

GrowExpress Limited
Kingsley Ekwueme
Managing Director – GrowExpress Ltd.
Cocoa House, Dugbe
200263 Ibadan
Nigeria

Tel .:+234 7031135981
Mail: AtYourService@growexpress.biz
Web: https://growexpress.org

Company Description:

The GrowExpress Ltd. office is located in Nigeria, Cocoa House, Dugbe, 200263 Ibadan. Completed in 1965 at a height of 105 meters, Cocoa House was once the tallest building in Nigeria and the first skyscraper in West Africa. It is located in Dugbe, one of the major commercial areas in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. The company GrowExpress Ltd. manages an estate of 800 hectares approximately 200 km north of the megacity Lagos in Nigeria. Further information at: https://growexpress.org

Press Contact:

GrowExpress Limited
Kingsley Ekwueme
Cocoa House, Dugbe
200263 Ibadan
Nigeria

Tel .:+234 7031135981
Mail: AtYourService@growexpress.biz
Web: https://growexpress.org

Der Beitrag Food security in Africa: A critical analysis erschien zuerst auf GrowExpress Limited.

GrowExpress Ltd.: An African Success Story

GrowExpress Ltd., based in Ibadan, Nigeria, exemplifies the dynamism and potential of African agricultural enterprises. Kingsley K. Ekwueme, Operations Manager at GrowExpress Ltd., brought the innovative spirit of Nigeria to Berlin during the Green Week and Fruit Logistica. With a revolutionary approach, GrowExpress is transforming traditional agriculture in Nigeria into a sustainable, commercial powerhouse. By establishing a model farm that serves as a cooperative for local farmers, the company has already achieved considerable success. Through intensive training and the introduction of state-of-the-art, cost-effective technologies, GrowExpress aims to produce high-quality crops like corn, soybeans, rice, sesame, and ginger on several thousand hectares in an environmentally friendly manner. With a focus on organic farming, using local seeds, and implementing specially adapted crop rotations, GrowExpress aims to dramatically increase yields and minimize post-harvest losses. The company thus contributes to social peace, prevents rural exodus, and sets new standards in modern African agriculture. With a vision for the future and a solid foundation in sustainable practices, GrowExpress stands as a shining example of the possibilities that open up through innovation and commitment in the agricultural industry. Ekwueme’s visit to Fruit Logistica also served to establish international partnerships and exchange knowledge on proven cultivation methods and innovative technologies.

The Significance of Fruit Logistica 2024

Fruit Logistica provided a unique platform where professionals from around the world could connect, share knowledge, and discover the latest trends and technologies in the agricultural industry. For GrowExpress Ltd., it was an opportunity to demonstrate their stringent production standards and strengthen the company’s reputation on a global stage.

Highlights and Innovations

The fair featured a variety of highlights, including the presence of members of the Association of Vegetable and Persimmon Producers from Greece and Spain as part of the MEDITERRANEAN COMBO program. These and other exhibits allowed participants to explore a wide range of European agricultural products and discover new flavors.

The African Continent in the Spotlight

The presence of Kingsley K. Ekwueme and GrowExpress Ltd. emphasized the growing role of Africa in global agriculture. Given challenges such as climate change and rising cost pressures, the participation of African companies in international fairs like Fruit Logistica is crucial for the exchange of best practices and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices.

Fruit Logistica 2024 offered a platform for innovation, collaboration, and growth. The attendance of Kingsley K. Ekwueme and GrowExpress Ltd. was a testament to the vitality and potential of the African continent in the global agricultural industry. With a focus on quality, innovation, and sustainable practices, Africa continues its journey to play a key role in the international fruit trade.

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A Debut on European Soil

For Ekwueme, stepping foot in Europe for the first time represents more than just a business trip; it’s a cultural exchange and an opportunity to share the stories and successes of African agriculture on the international stage. With a background deeply rooted in the fertile soils of Nigeria, he brings a perspective rich in traditional knowledge and innovative approaches to sustainable agriculture.

A Melting Pot of Cultures: The Community Stand

Nestled within the „World Tour“ theme of the Green Week, booth 107 in Hall 10.2 showcased young companies from Africa under the patronage of the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) and the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), presenting their products. This platform is not only a showcase for culinary delights and innovative products like edible tableware and organic chili sauces but also a testament to the commitment and entrepreneurial spirit of the African community.

GrowExpress Ltd.: Pioneering a Green Future

GrowExpress Ltd. exemplifies the transformation of African agriculture from subsistence-oriented to commercial, environmentally friendly economy. With a model based on collaboration with smallholder farmers, GrowExpress has created a network that enables efficient and sustainable production through training and the use of state-of-the-art technologies. Their goal to expand cultivation areas to several thousand hectares while using locally adapted seeds is a bold endeavor that improves farmers‘ livelihoods and contributes to global food security.

The Harvest of Success: Sustainability and Efficiency

GrowExpress’s achievements in agriculture are impressive. By transitioning from monocultures to specialized crop rotations and implementing modern storage methods, the company has increased yields from 1 to up to 10 tons per hectare while reducing post-harvest losses from 40 percent to under 5 percent. These figures speak volumes about the potential of modern African agriculture and the role that companies like GrowExpress play in realizing this potential.

A Glimpse into the Future: Africa on the Global Stage

With a population of 1.3 billion people and the creation of the world’s largest free trade area through the AfCFTA, Africa is on the verge of a new era of economic independence and prosperity. Companies like GrowExpress are paving the way for this development by protecting local resources, introducing sustainable production methods, and positioning African products on the world market.

Kingsley K. Ekwueme’s visit to the International Green Week in Berlin symbolizes a turning point – not only for him personally but also for African agriculture as a whole. His story is a living example of how innovation, commitment, and international cooperation can work together to create sustainable solutions for some of the most pressing challenges of our time. Ekwueme and GrowExpress Ltd. are at the forefront of this movement, shaping the future of agriculture in Africa and beyond.

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The Challenges: Poverty and Rural Exodus in Nigeria

In recent decades, Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, has experienced rapid development. Despite the wealth generated from oil discoveries, around 40 percent of the country’s 200 million inhabitants live in poverty. Over 70 percent of the population is engaged in agriculture, but rural exodus and neglect of agricultural structures have left deep scars.

GrowExpress Ltd.: A Glimmer of Hope

Amidst these challenges, GrowExpress Ltd., a company dedicated to revitalizing fallow agricultural land in Nigeria, stands firm. Thomas Wegener, a former decathlete and international manager from Berlin, leads this ambitious project. GrowExpress has secured the right to cultivate a large state estate in the fertile OYO National Park through a competitive process.

Maria Emos: From Survivor to Successful Farmer

For Maria Emos, like many others in her community, life was a daily struggle for survival. As a widow with three children, she faced the almost insurmountable task of providing for her family. But everything changed with the arrival of GrowExpress. Maria joined the project, which promotes sustainable agriculture and local collaboration. Through participation in training programs and the use of modern agricultural techniques, she was able to triple her income. This success meant not only financial security for her family but also a new perspective and hope for the future.

The Concept of GrowExpress: Respect and Sustainability

The concept of GrowExpress is based on the principles of respect and sustainability. Instead of destroying existing small-scale farming structures, the company supports them through knowledge transfer and modern technologies. GrowExpress’s efforts have helped local communities increase their agricultural production while protecting the environment.

A Vision for Sustainable Agriculture

Thomas Wegener, who has supported GrowExpress through his social commitment since its inception, understands the importance of collaboration and cultural respect. His approach of working together, rather than against each other, has led to an agricultural revolution in the region. His dedication demonstrates that sustainable development is possible when local communities are strengthened and supported.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Oko and Nigeria

The story of Maria Emos and the GrowExpress project are shining examples of how targeted support and sustainable approaches can bring about positive change. They demonstrate that it is possible to break the cycle of poverty and rural exodus and create a self-determined future. Maria Emos represents many women in rural areas of Nigeria who, despite adverse circumstances, find the courage to improve their living conditions. Her success is a symbol of hope and change, not only for her and her family but for the entire community in Oko and beyond. GrowExpress Ltd. and the leadership of Thomas Wegener impressively demonstrate how respectful and sustainable actions can positively impact the lives of many people. Their success in Nigeria could serve as a model for other regions in Africa and worldwide to combat rural exodus, increase agricultural productivity, and promote sustainable communities.

Responsible according to the Press Act:

Thomas Wegener
CEO GrowExpress Ltd.

The GrowExpress Ltd. office is located in Nigeria, Cocoa House, Dugbe, 200263 Ibadan. Completed in 1965 with a height of 105 meters, Cocoa House was once the tallest building in Nigeria and the first skyscraper in West Africa. It is situated in Dugbe, one of the major commercial areas in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. GrowExpress Ltd. manages an estate of 800 hectares approximately 200 km north of the major city of Lagos in Nigeria. For more information, visit: https://growexpress.org

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The reality that over 800 million people worldwide don’t know where their next meal will come from is shocking. Chronic malnutrition is a vicious cycle from which those affected can hardly escape. It makes people more vulnerable to illnesses, reduces their productivity, and plunges them deeper into poverty. The GrowExpress Ltd. has not turned a blind eye to these challenges, but has launched a project (model farm). In an interview with Thomas Wegener about social commitment for GrowExpress Limited in Nigeria, it becomes clear that long-term perspectives must be created directly and immediately. First of all, modern agriculture must become attractive to the population in order to create secure incomes. This brings social peace and offers prospects for preventing further migration from rural areas to cities or abroad, Thomas Wegener is convinced.

World Food Day, which takes place globally every year on October 16th with numerous actions, aims to address the imbalance and the resulting issues of world hunger, food security, and the eradication of hunger. Global answers must be sought to the questions: Why is there still hunger on our planet despite sufficient food production? Why do hunger crises persist so stubbornly?

1. World hunger in numbers: The term „world hunger“ describes the problem that a part of the world population is permanently malnourished. Unfortunately, the number of people suffering from hunger is not decreasing, but has been increasing for years. In 2017, more than 821 million people suffered from chronic hunger, including 60 percent women. Most of them live in developing countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa.
2. The main causes of world hunger: The causes of world hunger are diverse. Climate extremes, conflicts, and economic problems contribute to food insecurity. But the main cause is poverty. The unequal distribution of income and resources in developing countries prevents millions of people from having access to agricultural land and equipment to grow or buy food. This leads to a vicious cycle of malnutrition and persistent poverty.
3. The role of climate change: Climate change affects food security worldwide. Extreme weather events such as droughts, famines, floods, and heat waves are increasing. Rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns have a negative impact on agricultural yields, primarily in regions heavily dependent on agriculture, such as Africa and Asia.
4. Conflicts and instability: Conflicts are the main cause of food crises in 60 percent of the world. They negatively affect markets, transportation routes, and the availability of land. Conflicts destroy sources of income, force people to flee, and drive up food prices. Peace efforts are therefore crucial to combating world hunger.
5. Economic deterioration: Even in peaceful regions, economic decline has worsened food security. Rising costs and declining incomes affect people’s ability to feed themselves.

Solutions for world hunger

To combat chronic food shortages, governments, NGOs, and global organizations must work together and find innovative solutions. Food security means empowering rural communities to produce or buy food that is crisis-proof. Sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, protection of natural resources, and promoting women in agriculture are key aspects of these efforts.

GrowExpress Ltd.: A Vision for Sustainable Agriculture and Self-Help in Nigeria

Since its democratic development in 1999, Nigeria has been the official partner country of German development cooperation. Education and vocational training as a key to self-help and projects with sustainability requirements are the focus of German development cooperation in order to enable a self-determined future. German development cooperation focuses in particular on the sustainability of economic development, energy policy advice, and vocational training in agriculture and construction.

A promising project that serves as an approach to solving the challenges of world hunger is pursued by GrowExpress Ltd., based in Cocoa House 200263 in Ibadan, Nigeria. „With a holistic approach to improving food security in the region,“ explains Thomas Wegener. It combines sustainable agricultural practices, climate resilience, and the promotion of women in agriculture. By empowering the community to produce their own food and generate income, it helps break the cycle of hunger and poverty.

The „GrowExpress Ltd.,“ a company dedicated to promoting education and training in the agricultural sector. Thomas Wegener says, „The GrowExpress farm project attaches particular importance to education, high-quality seeds, high-yield crops, and the marketing of products to enable an attractive life in rural areas. A crucial aspect of this project is respect for existing local structures, especially small-scale agriculture, which relies on human labor.“

Revitalizing and cultivating fallow land sustainably

The project site is located 200 km inland from the bustling metropolis of Lagos. Lagos, a city of contrasts, shows poverty and wealth in close proximity. The rapid population growth has led to Lagos being designed for 8 million inhabitants, but today it accommodates more than 20 million people. Every year, about 700,000 more people move to the city in search of a better life. In this context, the GrowExpress farm project envisions combining economic efficiency with social responsibility.

In close collaboration with the university in Ibadan, a groundbreaking concept has been developed that focuses on cooperation rather than confrontation. Through a bidding process, the GrowExpress Group was given the opportunity to cultivate a large, previously fallow state-owned land in the fertile plains of the OYO National Park. This park, which extends over 4180 km south of the Niger, is home to some of West Africa’s most fertile soils. Thomas Wegener, one of the driving forces behind GrowExpress, explains: „In Nigeria, there are many fallow lands that have been unused for decades, mainly due to rural exodus. Many farmers leave rural areas in search of better job opportunities in cities. What is left behind are often single women and children struggling to survive on small farms. GrowExpress is committed to revitalizing these fallow lands in a gentle way and practicing organic farming.“

The concept involves restoring the land for agricultural use by removing the neglected bushland that has accumulated over decades. Local labor is integrated into the process to promote education, respect, and income. Thomas Wegener adds that besides local institutions, international investors are also jointly supporting the revival of agriculture in this fertile part of West Africa in the state of Nigeria.

Social responsibility and long-term self-help

World Food Day 2023 should remind us that hunger is a global crisis that requires collective efforts. Water is vital for food production, and no one should be excluded from this vital resource. Projects like the one pursued by GrowExpress Ltd. show how education and cooperation can help revive fallow land and create a better future for rural communities. GrowExpress proves that sustainable agriculture can not only be economically efficient but also take on social responsibility and promote long-term self-help. Let’s all work together to ensure that no one is left behind and everyone has access to sufficient food and clean water. Because water is life, water is food, and no one should be denied this fundamental right.

Author: Agnes von Weißenburg, Blogger

„Doing good and writing about it“ – How to improve the world? This question challenges everyone. Agnes has been a blogger since 2011 and has been with ABOWI-Reputation.com since 2022. The blog schreiber-bildung.de offers topics related to education, further education, and career opportunities. Questioning actions critically, whether in everyday life, locally, globally, and sustainably, with deep conviction through the power of words, communication, and research. You can reach us at contact@abowi.com.

Contact:

GrowExpress Limited
Kingsley Ekwueme
Chief Operating Officer – GrowExpress Ltd.
Cocoa House, Dugbe
200263 Ibadan
Nigeria

Tel.: +234 7031135981
Mail: AtYourService@growexpress.biz
Web: https://growexpress.org

Company Description:

The GrowExpress Ltd. office is located in Nigeria, Cocoa House, Dugbe, 200263 Ibadan, one of the major business areas in the state of Oyo, Nigeria. The company GrowExpress Ltd. manages an agricultural estate of approximately 800 hectares about 200 km north of the bustling city of Lagos in Nigeria. GrowExpress stands for sustainability, investing in the agricultural future with innovative production methods for maximum efficiency and yield increases. For more information, visit https://growexpress.org

Press Contact:
GrowExpress Limited
Kingsley Ekwueme
Chief Operating Officer – GrowExpress Ltd.

Der Beitrag World Food Day 2023 Leave no one behind erschien zuerst auf GrowExpress Limited.

Thomas Wegener has been professionally active all over the world, especially on the African continent. The founder of the Nigerian model company GrowExpress Ltd. discusses the question whether democratic systems are always superior in solving challenges. The examples of Delhi and Beijing. The questions were asked by Dr. Thomas Schulte from Berlin.

Thomas Wegener: Anyone who has ever been to New Delhi may remember the chaos, the people and the experience of breathing through a cloud of smog and dust. Residents of the Indian capital once again wondered why nothing had changed when the annual pollution season resumed. Interestingly, the New York Times made the argument that political factors play a role in why environmental policy is so complicated. Asia’s two largest cities were among the dirtiest in the world in 2012.

The starting point for 2012 was severe air pollution

About a decade ago, the starting point was similar, says Thomas Wegener: On the worst days, haze enveloped millions of people, blocking out the sun and straining their lungs. Beijing acted, while New Delhi did not. Much has changed in one of the two cities since then. After the Chinese government declared in 2013 that it would fight pollution, Beijing put into action a multi-year, $100 billion plan to improve air quality. The government imposed strict regulations on factories, eliminated outdated cars and switched from coal to natural gas. Officials in Beijing say more needs to be done, but in the meantime, the city has had more than 100 additional clear-sky days a year since the program began. In the fall of 2022, however, air quality in the other city, New Delhi, was worse than ever. Weeks of haze at the start of the air pollution season forced city officials to temporarily halt truck traffic, close schools and ask residents to work from home. Those who continued to go outside wiped their eyes and coughed into their masks. As every year, pollution from millions of cars, burning stubble in nearby fields, and open fires for cooking and heating in rural homes spoils the sky in the Delhi region. Local residents must wonder why nothing changes year after year.

Is it possible that democracy is preventing environmental cleanup?

Thomas Wegener’s result is clear: China did better than India’s democratic government. The New York Times cites the unequal economic situation of the two countries as one of the causes. It claims that in a country where millions still live in poverty, India’s population has more pressing problems. One argument is that India’s fractured democracy thrives on political infighting and finger-pointing that is more about winning the next election than solving problems. China’s one-party system does not allow for opposition; local officials go along when a project is given priority by the national government. According to Zongbo Shi, a professor of atmospheric sciences at the University of Birmingham in England, this was the case with pollution in Beijing, when the capital worked with regional officials and nearby cities (quoted in the New York Times).

Economic growth promotes higher environmental standards

Delhi cannot invest as much in environmental cleanup because China, which has experienced four decades of rapid growth, is much richer than India. In contrast to China’s $12,500, India’s economic output per person was $2,300 in 2017. According to him, China’s rising middle class has demanded environmental changes. The fact that there appear to be recurring patterns is an interesting feature.

Since the 1980s, China’s unprecedented growth as an economic giant has been driven by rapid urbanization and industrialization. However, the environmental costs of relying on the energy-guzzling heavy industry that fueled this boom were significant. Chinese authorities released a new national clean air plan, began publishing meaningful air quality data, and issued public service announcements on the air pollution problem in 2013.

Beijing was asked to reduce its emissions by 25 percent as part of the national strategy. According to experts, China took a series of measures in response: It tightened emissions standards for some factories and retrofitted or shut down others that were outdated; it disposed of 20 million end-of-life vehicles; it retrofitted 200,000 industrial boilers; and it switched the electricity supply of six million households from coal to natural gas. Beijing met the Chinese government’s call to reduce pollution by 25 percent by adopting a number of strategies, including switching from coal-fired boilers to gas-fired boilers.

Thoughts on problem solving

Environmental protection and human economic activity are clearly interrelated. The better the economic situation of the population, the more likely it is that issues of environmental pollution will become political factors of influence. The example of the fight against air pollution in India and China in recent years shows that an authoritarian-led government can implement drastic measures more easily. 

V.i.S.d.P.:

Dr. Thomas Schulte, lawyer and specialist author from Berlin.

Der Beitrag Successes in the fight against air pollution erschien zuerst auf GrowExpress Limited.

A world without hunger is possible, action is needed. This is the motto of Thomas Wegener, founder of the GrowExpress model farm in Nigeria. It is located near the university city of Ibadan, a major commercial and economic center of Nigeria. Nigeria’s rapid development through oil discoveries several decades ago led to the neglect of rural areas and agriculture, although over 70 percent of the population is involved in agriculture. Money and land are available. All that is lacking is an entrepreneurial structure and good organization. In cooperation with the local university in Ibadan, GrowExpress Ltd. was awarded the contract for a model farm. 

As part of the concept, the land was recultivated and returned to agriculture by removing the ecologically non-valuable bush land that had developed over the past decades. Involving local forces who also benefit from these economic activities through education, respect as well as income, international investors were found to work together to revive agriculture in one of the most fertile parts of West Africa in the state of Nigeria. Thomas Wegner: „The situation on the ground is that there is a lot of unused former farmland in Nigeria that has been lying fallow for 70 to 100 years. This is due to the circumstance of rural exodus. Most villagers hope for a better life in the city. Left behind are single women and children who struggle through everyday life with small-scale farming. GrowExpress is committed to cleaning up these large tracts of land again in a gentle way and starting organic farming.“ 

Sustainable development – respect – development efforts

The GrowExpress farm concept is not to break up local structures, but to respect them. This means preserving the existing small-scale field cultivation that depends on human power. The Agriculture Department of the University of Ibadan has developed a farming concept with the involvement of local fertilizer producers and protected seeds. GrowExpress Ltd. provides local farmers with know-how, seeds and fertilizers, and also gives them land in addition to their own land. 

ITA experts help

Unknown to many is the fact that one of the most important research institutions is also located near the farm. The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is a non-profit institution focused on agricultural innovation and addressing Africa’s most pressing challenges, hunger, malnutrition, poverty and natural resource depletion. .IITA’s headquarters (research institution and major seed bank of Africa) was established in 1967 and is also located in Ibadan, Nigeria. The center is equipped with established facilities that have been at the forefront of agricultural innovation in sub-Saharan Africa for 50 years. As a result, GrowExpress is using IITA’s latest findings: local drought-resistant seeds that are adapted to climate change and have already tripled harvests. Through irrigation and the quality of the soil, fertilizer is only added when soil samples show deficiencies. Crop rotations try to reduce fertilizer use. 

Better organization, better irrigation, better fertilization and better seeds

In particular, irrigation, multi-field farming, fertilizers and the use of modern seeds have not yet been adopted by individual families in smallholder farming; GrowExpress is working this out with the farmers and the experts. After soil analysis and clearing of ecologically non-valuable bush land, crop rotations are selected and farming mechanization is carried out. Nigerian government officials support the farm project and fixed purchase contracts have been signed, thus ensuring the economic dimension of agriculture. 

In addition, the GrowExpress farm project focuses on education and training, good seeds, high-yield harvests and marketing of the products for an attractive life in the country. Small farmers are still disadvantaged. In purely mathematical terms, ten billion people worldwide could be fed, but the production and nutrition situation does not match. Agroecology in the view of GrowExpress Ltd. makes it necessary that small farmers are also financially protected and supported. Agro-industrial agriculture is not made for fighting hunger. Multinational companies have a great influence on politics and legislation, even patents are in the hands of big companies. This must be countered by acting in an ecologically and economically correct manner. This includes respect for local people, scientific monitoring and the use of locally produced seeds and fertilizers. 

Erik Simon
CEO – Managing Director
GrowExpress Ltd.

About Erik Simon:

Banking and economics are the domain of Erik Simon, who has been globally responsible for years. After an apprenticeship as an insurance salesman, independent sales followed with extra-occupational studies in economics at the University of Trier and the University of St. Gallen, among others. DZ Bank Luxembourg and Bear Stearns Companies, Inc. in London significantly promoted his focus on documentary crediting and alternative financing. In today’s world, independent and qualified advice to countries and institutions is becoming increasingly important to achieve short, medium and long term goals and successes that contribute to the improvement of people’s lives and on many levels, Erik Simon CEO (Chief Executive Officer), Managing Director of GrowExpress Ltd. is convinced.

Contact: 

GrowExpress Limited
Kingsley Ekwueme
Chief Operating Officer – GrowExpress Ltd.
Cocoa House, Dugbe
200263 Ibadan
Nigeria  

Tel:+234 7031135981
Mail: AtYourService@growexpress.biz 
Web: https://growexpress.org 

Company Description:

GrowExpress Ltd office is located in Nigeria, Cocoa House, Dugbe, 200263 Ibadan, one of the major industrial estates in Oyo State, Nigeria. GrowExpress Ltd. manages an agricultural estate of 800 hectares approximately 200 km north of the megacity of Lagos, Nigeria. GrowExpress stands for sustainability. By investing in the agricultural future with innovative production methods for maximum efficiency and yield increases. For more information, visit https://growexpress.org

Press contact:

GrowExpress Limited
Kingsley Ekwueme
Chief Operating Officer – GrowExpress Ltd.
Cocoa House, Dugbe
200263 Ibadan
Nigeria  

Tel:+234 7031135981
Mail: AtYourService@growexpress.biz 
Web: https://growexpress.org

Der Beitrag GrowExpress project farm with seed varieties from IITA erschien zuerst auf GrowExpress Limited.