ECOWAS develops e-learning platform to empower West African farmers with agricultural knowledge

The ECOWAS Commission has taken a major step to bridge agricultural knowledge gaps by hosting a five-day workshop in Lagos, Nigeria, from November 11 to 15, 2024. The initiative aims to conceptualize the ECOWAS Agricultural Policy (ECOWAP) E-Learning Platform, a digital tool designed to empower rural farmers across West Africa with practical knowledge, sustainable practices, and innovative farming techniques.

The workshop brought together around 30 experts, program coordinators, and stakeholders from the Directorate of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) and the Regional Agency for Agriculture and Food (RAAF). The primary goal of the platform is to address the challenges faced by underserved farming communities that lack access to traditional agricultural resources.

Speaking at the opening session, Mr. Alan Sy Traore, Director of Agriculture and Rural Development, emphasized the transformative potential of the platform. “Farmers are the backbone of our economies and deserve easy access to knowledge, resources, and innovations that can enhance their productivity and resilience. This platform will empower communities across the region to adapt and thrive,” he said.

Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Zongo, Acting Executive Director of RAAF, highlighted the importance of addressing information gaps to build resilient agricultural systems. He expressed optimism about the platform’s role in equipping farmers with the tools they need to succeed in a changing agricultural landscape.

The program also featured insights from Mrs. Fatmata L. SEIWOH, ECOWAP/CAADP Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, who outlined the challenges faced by farmers. “Access to trustworthy information is one of the biggest hurdles for African farmers,” she noted, stressing the importance of sustainable practices for improving soil health and production.

During the workshop, participants conducted a detailed needs assessment to ensure the platform caters to its diverse user base, including farmers, extension officers, and policymakers. They also developed strategies for creating user-friendly content, ensuring accessibility, and integrating the platform with existing ECOWAS systems.

The proposed platform will offer both free and affordable courses, featuring video tutorials, audio guides, and illustrated materials on essential farming practices, such as producing gari and tapioca. Farmers and agricultural trainees will also have opportunities to enroll in certified courses, enhancing their skills and creating a well-informed agricultural workforce.

Concluding the workshop, Mr. Zongo expressed gratitude to participants and voiced confidence in the platform’s potential to revolutionize agriculture in West Africa. “This initiative will make knowledge accessible to every farmer and transform the region’s agricultural landscape,” he said.

The ECOWAS Commission plans to finalize a comprehensive roadmap to ensure the platform meets the region’s unique agricultural needs, paving the way for a future where informed farmers drive sustainable growth.